Ask the Doctor: Skin, Stress & Surgery

Get the answers to your health questions

I use sunscreen daily and invest in high-quality skin care products, yet my skin still appears dull and lifeless. Does food play into the appearance of my skin?

When it comes to the appearance of our skin, we truly are what we eat, as well as what we drink, how much we sleep and which lifestyle behaviors we choose. Getting at least eight hours a night of deep rest, avoiding cigarette smoking, and drinking plenty of water are fundamentals of a healthy skin regimen. That being said, specific nutrients, when incorporated into your daily diet, may provide added nourishment and protection to your skin thereby reviving its natural glow.

Foods rich in vitamin C impart potent antioxidant benefits that protect skin cells from free radical damage. Vitamin C is also required for collagen synthesis, helps maintain skin elasticity and strengthens the capillaries that nourish your skin. Of all the fruits and vegetables, red bell pepper and papaya contain the highest amounts of vitamin C. Zinc plays a vital role in skin health and may help normalize oil production. Zinc is directly involved in the processes that repair skin damage and (like vitamin C) supports collagen production.

Vitamin A encourages cell turnover, thereby helping our skin shed its dull, dry layer and allowing new, supple skin to shine. Carrots, spinach, kale, sweet potatoes and Swiss chard are wonderful vitamin A-packed veggies.  --Megan Tempest, RD, LDN, University of Chicago Medical Center

With my full time job and taking care of the kids, I never seem to have a moment for myself. How can I still get everything accomplished without feeling so stressed?

You are where your attention is. If you’re constantly attending to your to-do list, that will essentially define who you are. It’s critical in today’s world to have time and attention to care for yourself. Self-care is vitally important, yet we are not adequately taught how to prioritize it. In fact, we are in many ways programmed to care for others and be self-sacrificing. At the office and at home, hard work and compromise are often more valued than the ability to take care of oneself. Creating time and space each day to bring your attention to yourself is key to managing stress.

Though it might seem selfish at first, you may need to create a daily practice of having your attention on yourself. Meditation, yoga, a short walk, time at the gym or a weekly therapy appointment are just a few ways to gather up your attention and focus it on yourself. Is there a quiet place in your home that you could dedicate to spending a little time with yourself? If so, it could be a sacred place to bring your own attention to you. By creating a routine of self-care, you will be much more available and present to the myriad of work and home demands.  David Klow, LMFT, staff therapist, The Family Institute at Northwestern University.