The debate about food and acne is ongoing. Some studies have show a connection between certain foods and skin health, but others have not been proven in scientific studies. In general, healthy eating is a natural way to improve many of your body’s functions, so it stands to reason that it couldn’t hurt your acne. Here, we’ll discuss some common “dos and don’ts” when it comes to eating with your skin in mind (not medical advice: just some).
No single diet will work for everyone, so take a trial-and-error approach to diet, to see what works best with your body. None of these foods will cause drastic reduction or outbreak, but eating healthy may help your skin clear up over time. So give your body a leg-up by keeping yourself healthy anyway. You will feel better, and your skin just might look better, too.
Skin-Happy Diet: Good Foods To Try
Protein: Some people believe that a high-protein diet helps keep pores clear. Make sure you get your protein from healthy sources that aren’t too high in fats (red meat may not be your best choice).
Whole grains: Along with protein, carbohydrates with a low glycemic index have been shown to help clear up acne in some people. The less processed your carbs, the better.
Fresh produce: This is the best way to get vitamins and nutrients you need. As with grains, the less processed, the better.
Vitamins: Zinc and Vitamin A are not only part of a healthy diet, but appropriate levels may help reduce the severity of acne.
Water: Drinking plenty of water improves nearly every aspect of your bodily health. While dehydration hasn’t been directly linked to acne, it’s just not good for you.
Skin-Sad Diet: Good Foods To Avoid
Fats/sugars: Trans fats and saturated fats are known to increase the amount of oil your skin produces, so limit your intake of animal products (meat, dairy, etc.) Note: make sure you still get enough calcium and omega3 fatty acids. These are essential to bone and heart health. A diet high in sugar is best to avoid for a number of health reasons.
Extra calories: This hasn’t been proven, but some believe that eating too much affects your hormones, which affects your skin. In general, it’s good to eat a healthy amount for your weight and size, anyway.
Chocolate? This gets much debate. While chocolate has plenty of saturated fat, it hasn’t been proven to cause acne (but this believe is widely and strongly held). Pay attention to your own body. If cutting back on chocolate helps, go with it.
Iodine (as in salt): Too much iodine has caused extra outbreaks in some people with acne. Limit your salt intake to avoid this (and to keep your blood pressure low anyway).
