How Eating Jaggery Post Swimming Can Help Combat Skin Issues? Expert Answers

How Eating Jaggery Post Swimming Can Help Combat Skin Issues? Expert Answers (Image Credits: iStock)

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise, offering a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and improves flexibility. However, prolonged exposure to chlorinated pool water can take a toll on your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and other skin issues . One effective and natural remedy to combat these problems is consuming jaggery after swimming. Jaggery is rich in essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and specifically contribute to skin health. Dr DM Mahajan, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals shares how eating jaggery can help combat skin issues.

Common Skin Issues Caused Due To Swimming

Dr DM Mahajan shares that swimming, particularly in chlorinated pools, can lead to various skin problems due to the chemical-treated water, moisture, and friction. Common skin issues associated with swimming include:

1. Folliculitis: Bacterial infection of hair follicles, causing redness, itching, and pus-filled bumps.

2. Contact Dermatitis: Allergic reaction or irritation from pool chemicals, resulting in redness, itching, and blisters.

3. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) exacerbation: Swimming can trigger or worsen eczema symptoms, leading to dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Yeast overgrowth causing itchy, flaky, and red skin, especially in areas with high oil production.

5. Dry Skin (Xerosis): Prolonged exposure to water and chemicals strips natural oils, leading to dry, itchy, and rough skin.

How Can Jaggery Help Alleviate Skin Issues?

Dr DM Mahajan explains how jaggery can help combat skin issues caused by swimming:

1. Natural Antimicrobial Agent: Jaggery's antimicrobial properties can combat bacterial and fungal infections, reducing the severity of folliculitis and other infections.

2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Jaggery's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and reduce redness, itching, and inflammation associated with contact dermatitis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis.

3. Moisturizing Properties: Jaggery's humectant properties can help lock in moisture, reducing dry skin and xerosis.

4. Antioxidant Properties: Jaggery's antioxidant properties can protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by chlorine and other pool chemicals.

How To Utilize Jaggery For Swimming-Related Skin Issues:

- Apply a paste made from jaggery and water topically to affected skin areas to soothe irritations and infections.

- Mix jaggery with coconut oil or olive oil to create a natural moisturizer, applying it after swimming to hydrate and protect the skin.

- Add jaggery to your bath water for an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial soak.

Ways To Add Jaggery In Your Diet

Direct Consumption: Enjoy a small piece of jaggery as a post-swim snack to quickly replenish your energy levels and provide your body with essential nutrients.

Jaggery Water: Dissolve a small piece of jaggery in warm water and drink it after your swim. This helps in rehydrating your body and detoxifying your system.

Jaggery and Lemonade: Prepare a refreshing drink by mixing jaggery with lemon juice and water. This not only provides hydration but also adds a dose of vitamin C for enhanced collagen production.

Jaggery and Herbal Tea: Add jaggery to your herbal tea for a soothing and nutritious post-swim beverage.

Incorporate into Meals: Use jaggery as a natural sweetener in your meals or snacks, such as adding it to oatmeal, smoothies, or homemade energy bars.