NUTRITION profoundly influences key signal transduction pathways, critical for regulating systemic processes. A balanced intake of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids), micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), and bioactive compounds (e.g., polyphenols) significantly modulates these pathways. Importantly, diet also shapes the gut microbiome (GM), which impacts overall health, including skin integrity.
The outer skin layer, composed of keratinocytes, serves as the first defence against microbial invasion, while antimicrobial peptides and immune cells form a secondary barrier. The skin microbiome (SM), a diverse ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, interacts symbiotically with the host, offering protection against pathogens and modulating immune responses.
Dysbiosis in the GM or SM can lead to skin disorders like acne, atopic dermatitis (AD), and alopecia. The gut-skin axis, involving microbial metabolites and immune signalling pathways, highlights this interplay. For instance, gut dysbiosis can impair epidermal cell differentiation, reducing skin hydration and barrier integrity. Conversely, probiotics, such as Lacticaseibacillus helveticus and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, have shown promising results in restoring skin barrier function and reducing inflammation.
Healthy diets, particularly plant-based and Mediterranean-style diets, rich in antioxidants and fibre, enhance GM balance and improve skin health. For specific conditions, tailored dietary strategies can help: fibre-rich foods and omega-3 fatty acids for acne, gluten-free vegetables and fruits for alopecia, and egg-free diets with probiotics for AD. Additionally, innovative approaches like synbiotics and postbiotics show potential in restoring GM and SM equilibrium.
Skin diseases, due to their visibility, often lead to psychosocial challenges, such as reduced self-esteem and mental health disorders. Stress and anxiety can exacerbate skin conditions, creating a vicious cycle. Nutritional therapies, along with probiotic treatments, offer a holistic approach to managing these conditions by addressing both physiological and psychological symptoms. Further research is essential to optimise these therapies, including clinical trials to validate their effectiveness and safety. Achieving a deeper understanding of the gut-skin axis could revolutionise dermatological treatment and improve overall well-being.
Reference
Borrego-Ruiz A, Borrego JJ. Nutritional and Microbial Strategies for Treating Acne, Alopecia, and Atopic Dermatitis. Nutrients. 2024; 16(20):3559.
