Tool

Nutrient Compass - Skin

Nutrients that support skin barrier, collagen, and calm inflammation.

Selected goal

Skin

Nutrients that support skin barrier, collagen, and calm inflammation.

Key nutrients

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Zinc

target

Supports immune function, protein building, and skin repair.

RDA 8-11 mg, UL 40 mg

High long-term doses can reduce copper absorption.

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA/ALA)

target

Helps manage inflammation and supports heart and brain health.

Practical aim: 250-500 mg EPA+DHA per day

High doses may interact with blood thinners.

Vitamin D

target

Helps absorb calcium, supports immunity, and influences mood.

RDA 15 ug (600 IU); UL 100 ug (4000 IU)

High dosing only under medical supervision.

Protein

target

Builds and repairs tissue, preserves lean mass, and improves satiety.

1.2-1.6 g/kg for active adults (practical range)

Vitamin B12

target

Needed for red blood cells, nerves, and steady energy.

RDA 2.4 ug

Vegans need fortified foods or supplementation.

Top foods

Top foods for Zinc

FoodServingNutrient
Oysters84 g (6 medium)32 mg
Beef85 g (3 oz)7 mg
Pumpkin seeds28 g2.2 mg
Cooked chickpeas164 g (1 cup)2.5 mg
Yogurt245 g (1 cup)1.7 mg

Top foods for Omega-3 (EPA/DHA/ALA)

FoodServingNutrient
Salmon85 g (3 oz)1.8 g
Sardines85 g (3 oz)1.2 g
Chia seeds28 g (2 tbsp)5 g (ALA)
Walnuts28 g (1 oz)2.5 g (ALA)
Ground flaxseed14 g (2 tbsp)3.2 g (ALA)

Top foods for Vitamin D

FoodServingNutrient
Salmon170 g (6 oz)14 ug
Sardines85 g (3 oz)4.6 ug
UV-exposed mushrooms70 g (1/2 cup)8 ug
Fortified milk245 g (1 cup)2.5 ug
Egg yolks (2)34 g1.1 ug

Top foods for Protein

FoodServingNutrient
Chicken breast100 g31 g
Salmon100 g25 g
Greek yogurt170 g (6 oz)17 g
Cooked lentils198 g (1 cup)18 g
Tofu200 g20 g

Top foods for Vitamin B12

FoodServingNutrient
Clams85 g (3 oz)84 ug
Salmon170 g (6 oz)4.8 ug
Beef85 g (3 oz)2.4 ug
Eggs (2)100 g1.1 ug
Milk245 g (1 cup)1.3 ug

Quick swaps

Quick swaps

  • Fresh cheese (30 g) Pumpkin seeds (30 g) +1.5 mg Zn
  • Chicken (100 g) Lean beef (100 g) +3 mg Zn

Quick swaps

  • Generic seed oil Sardines or salmon (1 serving) +1-2 g EPA+DHA
  • Crackers Walnuts (30 g) +2.5 g ALA

Quick swaps

  • Chicken (100 g) Salmon (100 g) +8-10 ug Vit D
  • Unfortified milk Fortified milk +2 ug Vit D

Quick swaps

  • Sugary cereal (30 g) Greek yogurt (170 g) +14 g protein
  • Plain pasta meal Pasta + 100 g tuna +25 g protein

Quick swaps

  • Unfortified plant milk Cow's milk or fortified milk +1 ug B12
  • Zero fish per week 1 serving salmon per week +4-5 ug B12

Quick FAQ

Does zinc help skin?

Yes; it supports tissue repair and helps keep inflammation in check.

Are fats good or bad?

Omega-3 fats generally help calm skin inflammation.

Why is protein listed?

Protein supplies amino acids to build collagen and maintain the skin barrier.

Note: educational info for healthy adults. Not medical advice. Talk to your doctor if you have conditions or take medication.

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