“Mirror, Mirror on the Wall”
Decoding Your Face: Clues to Your Internal Health and Nutrient Deficiencies with Natural Remedies
Our skin, particularly the skin on our face as well as our facial structure, reflects our inner health. As within, so without. Lifestyle factors such as sleep or lack thereof (sleep apnea), hydration/dehydration, and skincare routines significantly impact our facial structure and complexion, but one of the most dominant influences comes from the nutrients we consume—or fail to consume.
Our face can provide important clues about the health of various internal organs and the overall state of health our body is in. Here are seven ways facial characteristics reflect the health of specific organs, along with natural approaches to address these issues:
Acne and Milia
Acne:
Organs: Liver, Gut (Particularly Small Intestine), Hormonal System
Description: Acne, particularly persistent breakouts, is often a sign of underlying imbalances in the body. It can indicate an overburdened liver, gut dysbiosis, or hormonal fluctuations. High glycemic diets, processed foods, dairy consumption, stress, and inadequate detoxification pathways contribute to acne formation. Additionally, deficiencies in essential nutrients like zinc, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids may worsen acne.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Eliminate processed foods and drinks, refined sugar, dairy, and hydrogenated oils - Canola and Seed Oils. Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in leafy greens, fatty fish, and whole foods.
Liver Support: Include detoxifying foods such as beets, garlic, and cruciferous vegetables.
Supplements: Digestive enzymes, probiotics, glutamine for gut lining repair. Zinc, vitamin A, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids can help regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation.
Hydration: Ensure adequate water intake to flush out toxins.
Skincare: Use natural, non-toxic products that do not strip the skin’s natural oils. Avoid excessive exfoliation, which can damage the skin barrier.
Milia:
Organs: Skin Barrier, Lymphatic System
Description: Milia are small, white, keratin-filled cysts that form under the skin. They often appear around the eyes and cheeks and are commonly mistaken for acne. Unlike acne, milia are not caused by bacteria or clogged pores but rather by trapped dead skin cells and keratin beneath the surface. They can occur due to an impaired skin barrier, excessive use of heavy creams, or inadequate exfoliation.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Consume foods rich in vitamin A, zinc, and sulfur to support skin renewal.
Skincare: Use gentle exfoliants containing lactic acid or fruit enzymes to encourage cell turnover.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support lymphatic drainage and toxin elimination.
Topical Support: Apply light, non-comedogenic moisturizers and avoid occlusive skincare products that may trap keratin beneath the skin.
Facial Massage & Lymphatic Drainage: Incorporate techniques to encourage fluid movement and prevent stagnation in the skin.
2. Round Face (High Insulin Levels):
Organ: Pancreas
Description: A round, puffy face is indicative of high insulin levels in the blood, most often due to a high-carb, processed food diet. Insulin promotes fat storage, leading to a rounder face and weight gain, often associated with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Reduce intake of refined carbohydrates and sugars. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
Exercise: Engage in regular physical fitness/activity to help manage blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Supplements: Consider natural supplements like chromium, berberine, and alpha-lipoic acid, which may help improve insulin sensitivity (Ophthalmology Review) (My Best Medicine).
3. Yellowish Skin and Eyes
(Jaundice - hyperbilirubinemia):
Organ: Liver
Description: Yellowing of the skin and eyes occurs when the liver fails to process bilirubin effectively, often due to liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction. If there is too much bilirubin for the liver to process, it can build up in the body.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Include liver-friendly foods like garlic, turmeric, and leafy greens. Avoid alcohol and all processed foods (pretty much anything in a can, a bag, or a box).
Herbs: Milk thistle and dandelion root can support liver detoxification.
Hydration: Ensure adequate water intake to help flush toxins from the body (Mayo Clinic) (Ophthalmology Review).
4. Puffy Eyes and Dark Circles:
Puffy Eyes:
Organ: Kidneys
Description: Chronically occurring puffy eyes can indicate kidney dysfunction. This is very different than the day after a night of drinking and eating pro-inflammatory foods, which is acute and will last a day.
Kidneys play a crucial role in filtering the blood, removing waste, maintaining water & salt balance, regulating as sodium and potassium that are excreted in urine, and electrolyte balance. When the kidneys fail to filter waste and excess fluid from the blood effectively; this impaired function causes fluid retention in the body, but especially in the soft tissues of the face under the eyes.Natural Approaches:
Diet: Eliminate “table salt” from your diet. I’m going to elaborate on this briefly because this is vitally important to your health and has much bigger implications.
Too much “TABLE SALT” is bad for you. While excessive table salt intake in conjunction with a diet high in processed foods and sugar can contribute to massive health issues, the reality is that pure salt itself is not inherently bad. In fact, salt is vital for our survival.
“Table Salt” is derived from ocean water, it undergoes intense processing to remove naturally occurring minerals, leaving nearly pure sodium chloride, which creates the taste of salt), and often 1/3rd glass, and 1/3rd silica/sand in the final product. This creates two problems:
The naturally occuring glass and silica/sand (now concentrated through the refinement process), scratches the epithelial cells, lining the lumen (arterial wall) and strips the endothelial cells away. To patch these areas, the body deposits its superglue (aka cholesterol) in the areas of damage. The medical industry will blame cholesterol for your high blood pressure (psi) when in fact the high cholesterol and high blood pressure are only a symptom of too much salt and sugar intake . . . usually from processed food products.
This refinement strips away the balanced trace mineral content found in natural salt sources, which is essential for cellular health. Consuming table salt, pure sodium chloride (which is hyper-osmotic), disrupts the body's natural balance, straining cells, creating cellular inflammation and thereby contributing to chronic health issues; puffy eyes and dark circles being the least of your concerns. But pay attention, puffy eyes and dark circles is your body telling you you’re out of balance and in a state of disequilibrium.
The fix? One should consume only unrefined salts like Redmond’s REAL SALT (retains all the trace minerals), Celtic Salt, or Pure Himalayan salt, which also retain their natural mineral content and may support cellular function more harmoniously.
The body has a sophisticated mechanism for regulating salt levels (real salt, not the refined salts sold in most grocery stores). When we consume more salt than the body needs, the excess is efficiently excreted through urine, sweat, and feces. The kidneys play a crucial role in this process by filtering out excess sodium from the bloodstream and excreting it via urine. This is why adequate hydration is essential—it assists the kidneys in this natural detoxification process.Include kidney-supportive foods like cranberries, blueberries, and red bell peppers.
Include kidney-supportive foods in your diet like cranberries, blueberries, and red bell peppers.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help the kidneys function properly.
Herbs: Nettle leaf and dandelion can act as natural diuretics to reduce puffiness (My Best Medicine) (Oxford Academic).
Dark Circles:
Organs: Adrenal Glands - Adrenal Fatigue
Description: Dark circles under the eyes are linked to adrenal fatigue. This occurs primarily due to chronic stress, elevated cortisol levels, impaired blood circulation, lymphatic congestion, and thinning of the delicate under-eye skin. Elevated cortisol breaks down collagen, making skin translucent and revealing underlying blood vessels, while poor circulation and lymphatic drainage exacerbate darkness and puffiness.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Limit caffeine and sugar; consume nutrient-dense foods high in vitamin C, B vitamins, and magnesium.
Improving sleep quality
Balancing stress hormones with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and Magnesium.
Increasing hydration
Replenishing nutrients like vitamin C, magnesium, and collagen peptides.
5. Butterfly Rash Across the Cheeks and
Nose:
Butterfly Rash:
Organ: Immune System
Description: A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose indicates lupus, an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the body's tissues because of the presence of a dietary toxin, parasite, or fungal proliferation. This pattern is very distinct (different than rosacea) with the redness resembling the wings of a butterfly.
The butterfly rash associated with lupus, known as a malar rash, typically covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose in a shape resembling a butterfly. It is usually red or purple, non-itchy, and may appear or worsen after sun exposure.
Rosacea, on the other hand, often involves redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps on the face, particularly on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. It’s underlying cause is essentially acne created by a poor diet of processed foods. It can be triggered by various factors like hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, temperature extremes, and stress causing the individual’s face to become very flush.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Follow an anti-inflammatory diet (which is provided in the WELLNESS PATHWAYS Process) rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber.
Supplements: Consider omega-3 supplements, vitamin D, and probiotics to support immune health.
Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises (Ophthalmology Review).
Red or Swollen Tip of Nose:
Organ: Heart & Cardiovascular System
Description: Chronic redness or swelling on the nose tip can reflect elevated blood pressure, chronic stress, or cardiovascular inflammation.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Anti-inflammatory foods, magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens.
Supplements: Magnesium, CoQ10, omega-3 fatty acids.
Lifestyle: Daily cardiovascular exercise and stress-reduction techniques.
6. Cracks at the Corners of the Mouth
(Angular Cheilitis):
Organs: Stomach & spleen
Description: Cracks at the corners of the mouth (Angular cheilitis) is an inflammatory condition characterized by painful cracks, sores, or redness at the corners of the mouth. It is commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infections or can signal nutritional deficiencies, particularly in B vitamins, iron, and zinc, often due to poor dietary intake or malabsorption.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Increase intake of B-vitamin-rich foods like whole grains, eggs, and leafy greens. Include iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and lentils. as well as healthy fats including avocados, olive oil, and wild-caught fish
Supplements: Consider B-complex vitamins, iron, and zinc supplements if dietary intake is insufficient and Omega-3 Fatty Acids.
Probiotics: Improve gut health with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut (Mayo Clinic) (Ophthalmology Review).
7. Pale Skin and Inner Eyelids:
Organ: Blood (Anemia)
Description: Pale skin and inner eyelids can indicate anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia, due to a lack of red blood cells or hemoglobin.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Increase intake of iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, and fortified cereals. Pair with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption.
Supplements: Iron supplements may be necessary if dietary changes are not sufficient.
Avoid Inhibitors: Reduce consumption of coffee and tea during meals, as they can inhibit iron absorption (Cleveland Clinic) (My Best Medicine)
8. Facial Swelling or Redness:
Organ: Thyroid
Description: Swelling or redness of the face can indicate thyroid dysfunction. Hypothyroidism can cause facial puffiness due to fluid retention, while hyperthyroidism can lead to a flushed complexion.
Natural Approaches:
Diet: Ensure adequate intake of iodine and selenium, which are essential for thyroid function. Include foods like seaweed, Brazil nuts, and eggs.
Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques to support thyroid health.
Avoid Goitrogens: Limit intake of goitrogenic foods like soy and cruciferous vegetables if you have thyroid issues (My Best Medicine) (Ophthalmology Review).
If you have thyroid issues, especially hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, goitrogenic foods can interfere with thyroid function by disrupting iodine uptake, which is essential for producing thyroid hormones. However, completely eliminating these foods is usually unnecessary, as proper preparation can reduce their goitrogenic effects.
Goitrogenic Foods and Their Impact on Thyroid Health
Goitrogens are naturally occurring compounds in certain foods that can interfere with iodine absorption by the thyroid gland, potentially leading to goiter (thyroid enlargement) or reduced thyroid hormone production.
Common Goitrogenic Foods:
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, bok choy
Soy-Based Products: Tofu, soy milk, soy protein isolates, edamame
Other Foods: Millet, cassava, peanuts, flaxseeds, peaches, strawberries
How to Reduce Goitrogenic Effects:
Cooking Helps: Heating cruciferous vegetables significantly reduces their goitrogenic compounds. Light steaming, boiling, or fermenting these foods neutralizes their iodine-blocking properties.
Moderation is Key: Small amounts of these foods are usually fine, especially when consumed as part of a balanced diet with adequate iodine intake.
Maintain Adequate Iodine Levels: Ensuring you get enough iodine (from seaweed, fish, dairy, and iodized salt - not “table salt”) can mitigate the effects of goitrogens.
Be Mindful of Soy: If you have thyroid issues, limit processed soy products, as they can interfere with thyroid medication absorption and hormone production.
Monitor Thyroid Function: If you have hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s, work with a practitioner to check if these foods affect your hormone levels.These natural approaches can help address the underlying issues indicated by facial characteristics. However, it's important to consult with a holistic/naturopathic/ functional health healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
Nature’s Skin Restoring Ingredients
Polyphenols, plant compounds found in various foods, for skin health. Polyphenols possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the skin from damage, fight wrinkles, and act as an edible sunscreen by absorbing UV radiation. Found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beverages like tea and coffee, these compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolics, prevent the degradation of collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity. This protection can prevent photoaging and various skin disorders, from burns to psoriasis.
Polyphenols come in four main groups: flavonoids, phenolic acids, polyphenolic amides, and other polyphenols like resveratrol and curcumin, each offering unique skin-protective properties. To boost polyphenol intake, experts advise eating a colorful variety of foods such as berries, leafy greens, nuts, and spices, aiming to "eat the rainbow" to maximize benefits. While polyphenol content can vary depending on environmental factors, the emphasis is on a diverse, plant-rich diet for optimal health and skin vitality.
Conclusion
Our facial skin can serve as an insightful indicator of our overall health, specifically highlighting deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. By paying attention to these signs and making informed dietary choices, we can promote not only healthier skin but also overall well-being. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or starting new supplements to ensure they are appropriate for your individual health needs.
An Invitation:
To truly transform your health and overcome chronic fatigue, chronic disease, and other challenges, it's crucial to uncover advanced health strategies and adopt new, healthy lifestyle habits. Imagine making conscious nutritional choices, creating a chemical-free, non-toxic household for your loved ones, and finding companies that provide products with certifiably safe ingredients. Picture yourself with a structured daily fitness regimen (suitable for all levels of fitness), experiencing deep restorative sleep, and effectively managing stress.
I want to personally invite you to explore the SHIFT ETHOS WELLNESS PATHWAYS PROCESS (Tab at the top of this page or link provided below) – a journey back to true health. Dive deeper into these essential elements and experience a comprehensive approach to wellness by enrolling in this revitalizing process, transforming your life, and embracing a healthier you!
Click here: SHIFT ETHOS WELLNESS PATHWAYS PROCESS, to learn more and consider taking the first step towards revitalizing your health. Schedule a free consult by pressing the blue button at the bottom of the WELLNESS PATHWAYS page.
Disclaimer:
I am not a medical doctor or a medical practitioner. I am not legally permitted to claim I treat, cure, or heal disease. I can, however, provide educational content with respect to building/restoring and maintaining optimal health through nutrition, diet, sleep support, and exercise, which can reverse health conditions.Any information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this web site.This website summarizes information on the role of nutrition, diet, and exercise in health, disease and wellness. Readers should be aware that knowledge of nutrition and medicine is constantly evolving. They are encouraged to frequently check the most current information available on preventive and therapeutic measures. It is your designated clinician’s responsibility, relying on their experience and knowledge of the patient, to determine the best course of action in providing care and your choice to follow it or not. The author, editor, and publisher of information on this website accepts no liability for any injury arising out of the use of material contained herein, and makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the contents of this online publication, or from the contents of sites or articles we provide links to. 