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Health - Wellness
The Reason Your Vegan Diet May Be Aging You Quicker
By MARIA SCINTO
Many people adopt a vegan diet because it is supposed to be healthier, and in many people's minds, healthy equals better looking. Sadly, it doesn't always work out that way, and many dermatologists have reported a condition they call "vegan face."
Inge Theron, the founder of Face Gym, admits most vegans exhibit a marked lack of elasticity in their facial skin due to a lack of collagen and elastin. NYC skincare provider Joanna Vargas agrees, saying that cutting meat, fish, eggs, and dairy out of the diet entirely can leave you short on essential fatty acids and B vitamins, and this deficiency makes skin dull and lifeless.
Aside from sagginess, another effect of a vegan diet is severe acne, as this diet tends to be short on vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc, all nutrients that can prevent breakouts. Many plant-based foods contain antinutrients that prevent zinc absorption and may cause digestive upsets that trigger pimple production.
To counter these adverse effects, vegans should incorporate protein into every meal, preferably in natural forms such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains, and avoid soy products to prevent breakouts. Indulge in a vegan-friendly facial, take skin pre-and pro-biotics and collagen supplements, and use a powerful exfoliator to get rid of all the dull, dry skin.