Dietary Cure For Acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder that occurs when the hair follicles are clogged with dirt, sebum and dead skin debris. Colonization of the Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria is commonly associated with acne flare-ups. Elevated sebum secretion, which is aggravated by hormonal changes, makes the skin vulnerable to acne outbreaks.

Several observational studies have found an association between acne eruptions and diet. Researches suggest that certain ingredients in the diet stimulate hormonal changes that increase the risk of acne. Dietary cure for acne involves limiting consumption of food substances that tend to aggravate risk of acne flare-ups and adding foods that improve the health of the skin to the daily diet.

Dietary Cure for Acne

Low Glycemic Diet

Low glycemic index diet is beneficial for the acne prone skin. According to studies, people on a low glycemic index diet are less likely to experience acne outbreaks. The goal of low glycemic index diet is to keep the blood sugar level under control. Although originally designed for diabetics, a low glycemic diet is a healthy diet that is recommended for improving the quality of health and preventing unintended weight gain.

The glycemic index measures the ability of a carbohydrate containing food to increase the blood sugar level. Foods with low glycemic index usually contain large amounts of dietary fibers that slow down digestion of carbohydrates. As glucose present in the low glycemic index foods is gradually released into the blood, these foods prevent abnormal increase in the blood sugar level.

By maintaining the normal blood sugar level, a low glycemic index diet prevents abnormal rise in insulin secretion. It also helps to improve sensitivity to insulin. Too much insulin circulating in the blood enhances the activities of insulin-like growth factor, which stimulates testosterone production and suppresses synthesis of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Low level of SHBG is associated with acne flare-ups.

A low glycemic diet comprises of whole grain products, beans, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Consume fewer potatoes and other starchy vegetables.

Low Saturated Fat Diet

A diet low in animal fats is beneficial for people prone to acne. Saturated fats stimulate production of insulin-like growth factor, which by boosting androgen hormone production boosts sebum secretion, thereby increasing the risk of acne outbreaks. However, not all types of fats are bad for the skin.

According to studies imbalance in omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the western diet increases the risk of inflammatory conditions including acne. Omega-3 fats are present in fish oil, flaxseed oil, nuts and whole grains. Adding these essential fats to the daily diet can prevent acne by inhibiting activities of pro-inflammatory substances in the hair follicles.

Also Read

Tips To Get Rid Of Acne With Vitamin C
Natural Cure For Back Acne
Effective Natural Cures For Acne Scars
Natural Cure For Acne
Home Remedies For Acne Overnight

Low Dairy Diet

Consuming large amounts of milk products promotes risk of acne outbreak. Apart from fats, hormones found in milk play a role in triggering acne flare-ups.

These components in milk stimulate insulin production, thereby increasing production of insulin-like growth factor, which is linked to higher risk of acne.

Mediterranean Diet

A Mediterranean-type diet can help people suffering from acne. As high levels of sugar and cholesterol in the blood are associated with higher risk of acne, by reducing these risk factors a Mediterranean-type diet comprising of large amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, beans, olive oil, fish and moderate amount of eggs, poultry and cheese can protect you from acne.