It is no surprise that acne has a relationship with nutrition, however there is still very little credible research in existence to link certain food groups to acne. Every person’s skin is different, and while there is not really a lot of information linking acne to foods, some people suffering from acne already may find that certain foods or drinks may make their face break out worse or cause acne to become inflamed. It is when this happens that they should try and avoid these foods. Here are a few other dieting guidelines and foods to avoid when treating acne.
Although it has not been proven that foods and acne are linked to each other for sure, studies that have been done in those suffering from acne found that at least half of acne patients tested had abnormal glucose levels and 80% of premenstrual women with acne were found to have abnormal glucose metabolism levels. This tells us that even if we aren’t sure how certain foods can affect our skin’s condition, there is definitely some kind of relationship that the two share.
Foods to avoid
Foods with saturated fats or trans fat in them can contribute to oily skin and cause acne. Saturated fats are most commonly found in most animal products such as meats, dairy and poultry. It should be noted that although avoiding foods such as these can help treat and prevent acne, the body still does require essential fatty acids such as from fish or flaxseed.
Although it has still not been proven, some people also believe that eating a high number of calories can lead to increased hormone levels. Although there is no evidence to back this theory up, it never hurts to be on the look out and just try and watch what and how much of something you are eating.
Chocolate is said to have a high number of saturated fats and many people believe that eating it can increase acne. Although this has not been proven, if you are already suffering from acne you may find that eating chocolate seems to make your acne worse. If this is the case then try finding some kind of alternative snack.
Some people who are lactose intolerant may find that dairy causes their skin to break out. If you think that you could be lactose intolerant stop consuming dairy products and talk to your physician.
It has also been said that foods containing high levels of iodine can lead to acne outbreaks. Foods that are high in iodine are usually any type of salty food such as chips. These types of foods should be avoided.
Foods to try
Any type of food that is higher in protein may assist in the treatment of acne. It has also been found that foods containing Vitamin A and Zinc have been proven effective in fighting acne.
Green tea is also a great thing to incorporate into your diet somehow because it leads to a decrease in androgen production and can help reduce acne outbreaks.
Some patients suffering from acne have tried using the “paleo diet” this diet consists of foods that are high in fiber but low in sugar. Most of the foods found in the paleo diet are purely plant based and the key in fighting acne here seems to be that there are no processed foods consumed. To follow the paleo diet eat the following: No grains, dairy, beans or soy. Eat only foods high in protein such as vegetables, fruits, berries, nuts and omega fats.
Eating 20 to 30 grams of fiber each day can help keep the colon clean and wipe out toxins in the body before they have time to reach the skin causing acne.
Eating a low fat diet can keep hormone levels stable and lead to a decrease in acne outbreaks. It has been found that some people who consumed high levels of fatty foods had elevated hormone levels.
Avoid peanut products. Avoiding peanut products can sometimes be helpful when fighting acne because products containing peanuts have been found to cause many adolescents acne to flare up and worsen.
Taking the following supplements can help prevent acne:
- Vitamin A (May be toxic, consult a doctor first)
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin E
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Chromium
- Omega 3
