Acne Diet

Acne (pimples) has some relationship with nutrition, however there is little credible research providing links between certain food groups and acne. As an acne sufferer it is a process of trial and error. However there are some guidelines that may be useful.

Foods to Avoid
Foods with saturated fats and trans fats can contribute to oily skin. Saturated fats are found in most animal products - such as meats, dairy, and poultry. However the body does still require other essential fatty acids - such as from fish, or flaxseed or hempseed oil.

Some believe that a high calorie intake (i.e. eating too much) can lead to increased hormone levels, and subsequently more ‘break-outs’ - but this is unproven.

What about chocolates and candy?
Many believe there is a direct relationship between eating chocolate and increased acne. However this is unproven - although chocolate does have a high proportion of saturated fats.

Foods to Try
A higher protein intake may assist in acne control. This may be to do with the decreased production of a certain enzyme that can cause more oil production, and increased clogging of pores. A diet with 60-70% carbohydrates may be too high in carbs.

Acne Treatments & Vitamins
Some people have found that Vitamin A and Zinc have helped with acne. In addition Green Tea could also be incorporated into the diet (as it leads to a decrease in androgen production).

High levels of iodine in the diet does impact some acne sufferers - by causing new outbreaks of acne lesions. Note that very salty (iodized salt) foods such as chips etc, contain high levels of iodine and should be avoided.

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Acne diet