Look to last

It's an intrinsic skin analysis,one that's not limited to the outer layer,but goes deep down to gauge how the inside reflects on the outside.

Written by Parul

December 14, 2009 03:19 AM IST

5 min read

Beauty gets a natural treatment,both internally & externally

It’s an intrinsic skin analysis,one that’s not limited to the outer layer,but goes deep down to gauge how the inside reflects on the outside. So,the problem is not just dealt simply by handing out creams and lotions for dry skin,blemishes,uneven patches,dark circles et al,but by studying the stress levels,emotional problems,mental state of mind,diet and exercise regimen. “A calmer inside means a good skin,and so my new range of skin and hair care products Shimmers,are absolutely chemical-free and personalised,” Betty Nangia uses aroma therapy,pranic breathing,natural juices and diet counselling for beauty that’s not only skin-deep. Health problems like blood pressure,diabetes,obesity reflect on the skin and so,there is a greater reason why a skin is hyper-sensitive,is prone to redness,patches etc,for which Dr Betty has tried and tested juice recipes,which she recommends along with the products. “Cucumber and lemon water are great for those with dry skin and who feel very hot. Cabbage and radish juice is for those with tummy problems,which leads to frequent skin break-outs,while beetroot and pineapple juice help reduce fat. I also teach my patients simple breathing exercises,give recipes for juices and give them a regime for taking care of their skin,as it reflects the energy inside.”

“Food chemistry affects body chemistry,” agrees Minnie Pandit,talking about living food cuisines and recipes that rejuvenate,reverse and delay the ageing process and enhance health. Her son,Dr Amitabh Pandit is the founder of Saidas Healing Foundation,and brings cutting-edge information in the field of anti-ageing,wellness and fitness. Food and the combination in which it is taken forms the fabric of the body and orthomolecular science prescribes food in particular combinations! “Over a period of time,the body changes to produce fantastic levels of health,well-being,rejuvenation,” Pandit says they design anti-ageing and holistic health programmes which help in disease control and management through natural foods and their book Anti-Ageing Exotic Blends. The book has as many as 54 recipes of exotic blends and each ingredient and infusion used to create these energising blends promises healing,curative,stimulating,calming,therapeutic effects on the body. “It’s about internal healing. Creams,serums,cosmetics work only for a few hours or days. Natural foods help heal,cleanse and regenerate your organs and slow the ageing process,” Madhu also practices power yoga and attributes her good health and youthful skin to good food and yoga. “A common ingredient like turmeric can lower cholesterol,BP,improve liver,ward off cancer-causing agents,while coriander seeds help liver and kidney functioning.”

Talking about food,winter brings in cravings and temptations,for in colder weather,our body tends to use extra energy,”so we feel hungrier,” Dr V Bhutani of the Department of Internal Medicine,Fortis Hospital puts it logically. The cravings can be satiated by eating sensibly and of course,at regular intervals,topping it with natural hot beverages like green and herbal teas,warm milk,and decaffeinated coffees to keep the body warm. Nutritionist Aditi Mehrotra says that from November to January,our digestive fire is ignited and our appetite increases and also it’s easier to digest heavy and fatty foods,precisely why we crave for them also. “Get plenty of natural sunlight,drink skimmed milk with cardamom,cloves,nuts to feel energetic and get warmth,” Aditi feels jaggery is rich in nutrients and a better option to satiate the sugar cravings than white sugar. Peanuts and dry fruits can be coated with jaggery and if had in moderation make great snack items. Sesame is also highly recommended,”add soybean,makki,channa to your atta and you are set for health and warmth,” Aditi adds dried apricots contain natural sugars while yoghurt with its natural bacteria can make you feel energetic!

Natural is best,points out nutritionist Sonia Gandhi,who recommends a daily dose of amla and orange for natural Vitamin C for protection against colds and coughs and also for giving hydration. Freshly boiled milk with peppercorns,small elaichi,tulsi and honey is a complete health food,as it provides calcium,phosphorus,” Betty suggests chicken or vegetable stew,pomegranate,ginger,honey,lemon to combat dryness of skin and hair. Eat well!

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