A well-balanced diet has long been associated with overall good health. Ongoing research has also shown the important specific relationship between nutrition and healthy skin.
Recent studies have shown that changes in diet can potentially impact the skin and improve stubborn dermatologic conditions, such as acne. Although it may seems obvious, a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables has been shown to improve a person's impaired skin structure and help to maintain overall skin health.
Research has shown that a diet with high glycemic index foods, which tend to contain large amounts of carbohydrates and sugars, can result in patients developing acne. These foods stimulate insulin production in the body, which leads to an increase in antigen production that accelerates skin inflammation and acne.
Additionally, there has been a well-known association between milk products and flares of acne. Many milk products unfortunately contain steroids & growth hormones, which are precursors of testosterone, and may contribute to the consumption of milk acting as an acne stimulant.
It is not known whether the whey proteins in milk are also a factor in leading to worsening of acne. However, studies show that cutting back or avoiding milk will have a positive impact on the symptoms of acne in most patients.
Diets high in omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve collagen production in the skin and decrease inflammation. These fatty acids are found in healthy fish oils, such as salmon, tuna, sardines in mackerel, as well as plant-based oils, such as canola oil and soybean oil. Nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, almonds, flaxseed, and Chia seeds are also high in these good fatty acids.
While dietary changes alone do not replace the medical treatments for acne, they are an important addition to therapies for many patients. This observation is especially true in people whose acne appears to be flaring during to hormonal fluctuations, such as teenagers of both genders and middle aged women.
Fortunately, we at Maine Laser Skin Care have a great experience in treating acne and acne flare-ups. We believe in treating acne with a holistic approach.
Feel free to call us either in Augusta at (207) 873-2158, or in Scarborough at (207) 303-0125 to schedule your free and confidential consultation. We will ask you questions about your diet, health habits, and any previous treatments you may have had before we suggest active interventions.