Here is a fun fact: Skin is the body’s largest organ and the first line of defense against viruses, pathogens and environmental toxins.

The skin not only helps keep harmful things out of the body but also helps the body get rid of any toxins through its pores. Therefore, it is crucial to take care of your skin so that it can help keep the body healthy. Exposure to the excessive heat and sun of the summer makes it even more important.

3 Tips to Protecting Your Skin Naturally

1. Natural Protection

There are many sunscreen and skincare products on the market today to choose from, but what is most important is to choose products that do not contain toxic chemicals. There are now several natural product lines available as well as DIY recipes. For example, zinc oxide sunscreen products offer a physical barrier against the sun’s rays, instead of a chemical barrier. Hats and loose-fitting, light-colored clothing also offer great protection.

2. Nutrition Protection

Eliminate or reduce processed foods that are high in sugar and toxins and cause inflammation in the body, including the skin. Feeding the body whole-food nutrients will not only provide antioxidants to fight toxins but also provide the building blocks to healthier skin. This includes quality proteins, organic vegetables, and healthy fats.

Vitamin D from the sun is limited throughout the year. Spending 30 to 45 minutes of unprotected sun time either early or late in the day will stimulate the production of vitamin D in the body. The amount of time is dependent on one’s skin type and should be limited to the amount of time before the skin starts to turn pink.

3. Skin Support

One-third of the body’s impurities are released through the skin each day. Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins and stay well hydrated. Be sure the drinking water is a clean source that has been filtered instead of tap water which may contain toxic chemicals.

Exercising and using a sauna will stimulate the lymphatic system, increase circulation and help the body flush out toxins and impurities. Exfoliating and dry brushing will help unclog pores and stimulate circulation to get rid of toxins. Mild, natural cleansers will help keep skin clean and nourished.

Following these three important tips will not only help the body and skin stay healthy, but will also keep it feeling good on the inside and out.

Angie Balsimo graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Culinary Arts, including coursework specific to nutrition. Her first four years following college were spent working as a personal chef on a private jet, where she ate and cooked cuisines from around the world. Today, she is a Guided Nutrition Health Coach at MetroEast Natural Healing Center, where she shares her passion for cooking whole, healthy, gluten-free foods.

To learn more about toxic-free body care, visit NutritionChiropractic.com/nutrition-coaching.