Patients often wonder if are there foods that cause acne. Acne is a complex disease. It affects both men and woman, adults and teens. and people of all ethnic backgrounds. Acne is the most common skin disease. Most people are familiar with the onset associated with the hormonal changes of adolescence, and the menstrual cycle in women, but there now is some evidence that your diet may also play a role in breakouts.
Dairy products – foods that cause acne
Studies show that dairy consumption is associated with an increase in the prevalence and severity of acne flares. Interestingly, not all types of dairy products equally affect the disease. Skim milk has been associated with more acne flares versus whole milk. Interestingly, probiotics, the “good bacteria” found in foods like yogurt with life active cultures, are also being evaluated for potentially acne-preventing properties.
High glycemic index – foods that cause acne
Sugar consumption now has some data supporting the long-held belief that eating sweets causes acne. There are some reports that a high glycemic diet may be associated with acne flares.
Low leafy green vegetable consumption
Low consumption of leafy green vegetables seems to increase the risk of acne. Green vegetables, such as spinach and kale, are high in vitamin A, which may reduce sebum production thus reducing acne flares. There are data that girls who have more leafy green vegetables in their diets are less prone to acne flares–this did not seem to be the case with boys in these studies. Vegans and vegetarians are sometimes surprised, however,
that they, too, get acne. Sometimes, non-meat eaters, however, consume a lot of carbohydrates, or sugars, which cause acne.
In the media: Dr. Strachan discusses chocolate and acne forstylecaster.
Many factors, including genetic, stress, hormonal changes and diet seem to contribute to acne. Soon research will better reveal how what we eat determines how clear our faces are. Changes in diet alone, however, may not be enough to completely take care of the problem. But when you are aware of that there are foods that cause acne you can make a change in your diet that may help clear your skin.
Are you suffering with acne? Dr. Dina Strachan, is an internationally recognized, Harvard and Yale-educated, board-certified dermatologist who directs Aglow Dermatology and has helped thousands of patients with acne. Let her and her team advise you on how diet affects acne, and other options. Make an appointment here or call 212-627-1004 x 1 for healthy, beautiful skin.
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