THE PROBLEM ‘I get really itchy forearms and legs especially in the mornings and evenings. I have a fairly healthy diet though I exercise and sweat a lot. What could this be?’ Annette, 44, an IT consultant from Croydon
THE EXPERT Sarah Bowles-Flannery is a naturopath, medical nutritionist and herbalist. Find out more at sarahbowlesflannery.com
THE SOLUTION ‘There are lots of reasons for itchy skin, and often a combination of factors. The two most common and simple reasons are slight dehydration and a deficiency of essential fatty acids. On average, two litres of water a day is sufficient but this may need to be more as you are exercising, especially in the current hot weather or if you’re also consuming any diuretic liquids such as coffee, tea or alcohol. For the essential fatty acids it’s worthwhile supplementing with a Fish oil supplement which also includes evening primrose or borage oil. Plus include lots of good fats in the diet such as coconut oil, avocado, cold pressed olive oil, oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna). The water and essential fats guidelines are helpful whatever the additional reason for the itching as this will help reduce inflammation and support healthier skin. The other common reason for itchy skin is an allergy or sensitivity to something – this could be foods, or external substances like body washes, soaps, washing powders. Make sure all the products you use on or around the skin are as natural as possible. And avoid soaps/body washes as these will further dry out and irritate the skin. Click here to read today’s new story about a new skin allergan identified in everyday toiletries that could be to blame.
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