Treat acne with diet
The relationship between acne and diet is unclear. A number of studies have found that specific foods tend to aggravate acne breakouts, while certain foods could protect the skin from the unsightly rashes. Studies suggest that communities that live on the hunter-gather diet of the early humans do not suffer from acne. Although, scientists suspect a role of genes in triggering acne breakouts, it is difficult to overlook the role of diet in maintaining the optimal health of the skin.
Limit carbohydrate intake
The diet of the modern man is loaded with sugar. Refined carbohydrates were unknown in primitive cultures. Studies have revealed that a calorie rich diet affects the sebum composition, thereby increasing the risk of acne. While studying the affect of a low glycemic load diet on acne lesions, researchers found that lowering the glycemic load reduces excess insulin circulation and decreases the level of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Elevated insulin and SHBG stimulate synthesis of androgen hormones, thereby boosting sebum secretion and increasing the risk of acne breakouts.
Reduce omega-6 consumption
A high omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids ratio in the daily diet might make a person susceptible to acne. A western style diet usually contains larger amounts of omega-6 fats and very small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Excess consumption of omega-6 encourages production of pro-inflammatory mediators that trigger inflammatory skin conditions such as acne.
Increase consumption of omega-3 fats
Omega-3 fatty acids function as anti-inflammatory agents. By obstructing production of inflammatory chemicals, they can protect the skin from acne breakouts. Fatty fish and seafood are the richest sources of these healthy unsaturated fats.
Limit saturated fat consumption
A balanced diet does not contain more than 10 percent saturated fats. Excess consumption of saturated fat is linked to production of insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 triggers testosterone secretion. High levels of testosterone during adolescence activate the sebum producing glands on the skin. Too much sebum secretion changes the pH of the skin, clogs the hair follicles and creates a suitable environment for the acne causing bacteria to thrive, leading to acne breakouts.
Avoid excess dairy
Excess milk and dairy consumption might trigger acne. Studies have revealed that adolescents who consume more than three servings of milk and dairy daily are more likely to experience severe acne breakouts than their counterparts whose daily diets contain not more than one serving of milk and dairy. The risk of developing skin rashes is higher among individuals who consume skimmed milk, suggesting that saturated fat in milk is not the sole culprit in triggering acne flare-ups. Researchers speculate that the hormones present in milk might be responsible for the inflammatory condition of the skin. Certain components in milk boost excess circulation of insulin in the blood, thereby disrupting the hormonal balance, leading to acne.
Increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables
By switching to the hunter-gatherer diet, you can protect your skin from the acne lesions. Loading your meals with fresh fruits and vegetables could supply your body the nutrients needed for maintaining the optimal health of the skin.