- Diet does not cause acne, but an unbalanced diet can make things worse.
A study in the journal Dermatologia concluded that diet prescriptions
for acne are not helpful as a rule, but they can be useful in certain
individual cases.
- It makes sense to support the immune system that is saddled with
fending off the inflammation. This means focusing on a plant-based diet
with a minimum of five servings of vegetables and fruits every day.
- Certain foods might make acne worse in some individuals; in others,
they may not. Keep a journal, but avoid jumping to conclusions. You can
have acne flare-ups and clear periods that follow no discernable
pattern.
- A study in the journal Acta Dermato Venereolica found that 30
milligrams per day of zinc gluconate reduced the inflammation often
found in acne.
- It's important to get enough vitamin A since it plays a part in the
health of your skin. If, however, you are taking the prescription drug
isotretinoin (Accutane) for acne, consult with your doctor first before
taking vitamin A, or any multivitamin containing vitamin A. There is a
risk of a vitamin A overdose, because isotretinoin is a vitamin A-like
compound.
- The risk of vitamin A toxicity applies only to pre-formed vitamin A,
not beta carotene, which is converted to the vitamin by the body as
needed. It is not possible to consume a toxic amount of beta carotene.
Read the label to see what form you are taking.
- In the Annals of Clinical Research, Swedish scientists discuss how
lower levels of selenium are associated with various skin disorders,
including acne.
- Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that plays a key role in the
immune system. As reported in two separate studies in the dermatology
journal Cutis, there is a synergy between vitamin A and vitamin E in
dermatological applications. Vitamin E can also prevent irritating lipid
(fat) peroxidation of sebum, which may play a role in the inflammatory
aspects of acne.
- Consult with your physician before adding any supplements to your diet.
|
