What most of us desire to have is a healthy glowing skin and we tend to think about fancy serums and medications to achieve the same. However, one most ignored means to attain a clear fresh-looking skin is our Diet. What we eat determines our skin health.
Though acne is influenced by genetic, hormonal and environmental factors, diet also plays a major role in how our skin behaves.
FOODS TO AVOID IN ACNE – FOOD THAT TRIGGERS ACNE – WHO ARE THE CULPRITS
1.High glycaemic index foods:
One of the most studied dietary triggers for acne is foods with high GI. High Glycaemic Index foods are nothing but those that increases blood sugar very quickly. This in turn increases blood insulin. Insulin triggers male hormone (androgen) release leading on to excess oil secretion and clogging of pores. Though there are a multitude of undesired effects on the body, this is a simplified way to explain one part of it.
Processed foods, soft drinks, white breads, chocolates, pastries, potatoes are the common items in the list.
2. Dairy products:
Milk consumption though known to increase free androgen levels, consumption of up to 200 ml per day doesn’t really play a large part in contributing to acne.
However, Milk sweets, processed cheese, ice creams are best avoided. Let’s get practical, once a week, cheat diet is alright I suppose!
3. Fast food:
Fast food often contains unhealthy fats, refined sugars and processed ingredients – all of which are pro inflammatory.
Avoid Fried and greasy food, burgers, fries. Again – once a week ! 😊
Also Read: Skin & Hair Care Tips for Newborn’s
What are the foods to have for Glowing Skin?: A complete Diet & Acne
Too many fancy words !! lets simplify that simple plan for Diet & Preventing Acne
Omega 3 fatty acids – rich in anti-inflammatory properties and refreshes our skin. Fish, chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, spinach are high sources of omega fatty acid.
Antioxidants found in colourful fruits and vegetables. These are the ones that acts upon stress induced molecules in the body and neutralises them. Vitamin A regulates skin turnover thus unclogging the pores. Vitamin c supports collagen production and reduces inflammation. So, fill your plate with spinach, oranges, berries, papayas and nuts.
Zinc is a proven mineral that helps in acne. It has anti inflammatory and immune boosting properties. Rich in almonds, dal, brown rice, eggs and bananas. Zinc also helps in healing and thus improves acne scars.
Probiotics: The gut skin connection is gaining attention recently as a healthy gut microbiome can reduce systemic inflammation and keep acne at bay. Include fermented foods like fermented rice, curd, paneer, whole wheat bread, idly, dosa to maintain a healthy gut.
OUR KEY AIM IS TO REDUCE INFLAMMATION. What causes it – poor food and sleep hygiene, physical and mental stress !!! Simple to list …I know … It takes a great deal of discipline to follow! let’s keep trying …Wish you luck !!
