Tired of Bags Under Your Eyes?

Bags under the eyes are a cosmetic concern for many people that can be really frustrating and impact self-esteem. We're going to address some of the major causes and how we can combat this puffiness under the eyes naturally.

Puffiness under the eyes is common with aging. As one ages, normal tissues around the eyelids can begin to sag as the muscles weaken. Fat that encompasses the eye socket and normally provides support can drift into the lower eyelids causing the puffiness. There can also be fluid that occupies this space allowing for the lower eyelid to appear puffy. This condition can sometimes be accompanied by dark circles around the eyes in addition to the loose, sagging skin. The good news is that this puffiness is oftentimes not a sign of a serious, underlying medical condition. In addition to the normal aging process being a factor, other causes include: high dietary salt intake, allergies, lack of sleep, sleeping face down, drugs and alcohol.

When it comes to overcoming having bags under the eyes, certain lifestyle factors like quitting smoking and drugs and limiting alcohol intake will be key. It will be important to limit salt intake as well, because salt accompanies water in the body and can lead to fluid accumulation. Aim for 1500 to 2300 mg per day and I'd focus on Himalayan pink salt as a recommended option. Eliminating allergies with an anti-inflammatory diet, exercise, proper mental health (active prayer life, social interactions, forgiveness, stress reduction) and proper supplementation are crucial steps to eliminating bags under the eyes. Sleeping on your back can help because face down sleeping affects the muscles around the orbit and can lead to easier fluid accumulation. Cucumbers around the eyes can be beneficial as well as cold compresses. Lastly I'll mention collagen. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is responsible for structural stability of our body tissues. Collagen production declines with age and can be supplemented to help maintain normal levels. Bone broth is a great option, the skin of chicken has some collagen and when it comes to supplemental collagen, hydrolyzed or collagen peptides are easy to digest, metabolize and absorb. This collagen can support the muscles around the eye and provide more firmness to the skin in place of the sagging skin.

Overconsumption of salt can be a factor in lower eyelid puffiness.

I believe implementing these steps can be a game-changer when it comes to minimizing the appearance of bags under the eyes. Subsequently, confidence and self-esteem can be elevated - all from natural, easy-to-implement steps.

Dr. Seamus Allen

CFMP, DACBN, DC

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20369927