Acne is frustrating and inconvenient, however, with the right approach, those breakouts can be controllable. Acne cure is possible by choosing the food wisely. Yes, you have heard it right; science is showing us that certain foods cause acne and foods that prevent acne. People who consume fewer dairy products, fewer foods with a high glycaemic index and more omega 3 fatty acids may have a lower risk of severe acne.
More research is needed, but the diet and nutrition could indeed affect acne breakouts. Some evidence suggests that one can reduce the appearance of acne and can even prevent acne breakouts by eating foods and avoiding food enemies of acne. Acne is the most common skin condition affecting around 50 million Americans. It often attacks youngsters during puberty and is especially prevalent between the ages of 12 to 24 years. The symptoms vary from mild to severe, and they can have a significant impact on the quality of life of an individual who is suffering from acne. While there is currently no acne cure, but the range of effective treatments, including prescription medications and OTC cream and gels are available to help reduce the severity and prevent breakouts. Acne therapies like salicylix and Tazret gel can reduce pimples and prevent a breakout. Lifestyle changes can also help to reduce the symptoms and prevent breakouts. Dietary changes are one of the best home remedies for acne. There is no better option than replacing your dairy products with a dairy-free alternative to reduce inflammation and bringing the body back into balance.
Foods that reduce breakouts
Research studies focus on the food that causes acne or worsens the condition. Here are the seven foods that cause acne. Avoid consuming these foods or limit the consumption to support acne cure.
1. Dairy products – A lot of research studies have found a link between dairy products and acne severity, especially in teenagers. Young adults who regularly consume milk or have food items made of milk are more likely to develop pimples. However, more research is required to understand the link between milk products and acne fully. The research studies focus on teenagers and young adults and reveal that there is a correlation between milk and acne. It is not clear how dairy products may lead to the development of acne, but several research studies provide evidence. Milk is believed to cause a rise in insulin levels, which may worsen acne or pimples. Cow’s milk contains amino acids that help the liver to produce more IGF-1, which has been linked to the acne severity.
2. Refined Carbohydrates and Sugar– People suffering from acne vulgaris tend to consume more refined carbohydrates as compared to people with little or no acne. Foods that cause acne and are a rich source of carbohydrates include pasta, white rice, noodles, bread, cereals, crackers, sugar-sweetened beverages, honey, maple syrup, and sugar. A study revealed that people who frequently consume refined sugars are 30% greater risk of developing acne.
3. Foods containing Omega 6-fats – Food items containing a large amount of omega 6 fatty acids have been linked to increased levels of inflammation associated with acne vulgaris. A western diet containing corn and soy oils that are rich in omega 6 fats. And a few foods that contain omega 3 fatty acids like walnuts and fatty fish (salmon, tuna). Omega 6 fats cause inflammation which may worsen acne severity.
4. Whey Protein Powder– Whey protein is popular amongst bodybuilders as a dietary supplement. It contains amino acids glutamine and leucine that cause skin cell growth and help them to divide more quickly, which may cause give rise to acne. Also, the amino acids stimulate the body to produce higher levels of insulin which have been associated with acne formation.
Also Read: Retino for Acne Treatment and Beautiful-Looking Skin
5. Fast Food – Many studies revealed a strong link between fast food and acne formation. Diet rich in calories, fat, and refined carbohydrate may increase acne risk. Fast food items such as sodas, burgers, French fries, milkshakes, hot dogs, and nuggets may increase the risk of developing acne breakouts.
6. Chocolate – Another acne trigger, chocolate may increase the risk of developing acne; however, more research is needed to prove that chocolate causes acne. It is still not known how chocolate can increase acne, but the little data suggest that chocolate increases the reactivity of the immune system to acne-causing bacteria.
7. Certain foods you are sensitive to – food sensitivity test can help determine which food causes acne or contribute to immune-related inflammation. This helps to identify which food item to eliminate from your diet. There has been a link between inflammation and acne, but still more research is required to help better understand how food causes acne. Research studies have linked certain foods to an increased risk of developing acne. However, it is important to make food choices wisely. It is probably not necessary to eliminate the foods that have been linked to acne but instead limit the consumption or balance them with nutrient-dense foods.
