Acne: What to eat, what not to eat?
Hands down the most common skin problem out there is of acne. It reportedly affects at least 85% of the world population at some point of time or the other. However, good news is that simple dietary changes can help prevent acne and other skin problems. Here's what you should and should not eat in order to avoid acne breakouts.
To eat: Fruits and veggies, Fatty fish
Fruits and veggies: Fruits and vegetables, that are rich in antioxidants, can help neutralize free radicals, which can be harmful for your skin, as they cause inflammation that leads to acne and even premature aging. Fatty fish: Omega-3 fatty acids-rich fishes like salmon, tuna and sardines improve our skin's health by lowering inflammation and also allowing the skin to build new, healthy cells.
Cashews and Probiotics
Cashews: Cashews are a great source of zinc, an essential mineral linked with reduction in acne. It has vital anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting qualities. Other great sources of zinc are oysters, lobsters, and beef. Probiotics: Probiotic food items like yogurt, kimchi, miso and tempeh have also shown to hinder the release of inflammatory proteins and decrease sebum production, thus helping prevent acne.
Always stay hydrated
Poor hydration might lead to acne and other skin health problems. That's why it is recommended to drink plenty of water, and consume various water-rich food items like cucumbers and watermelon on a daily basis to stay safe from skin issues.
Not to eat: Dairy products and carbohydrates
Dairy Products: High levels of hormones such as testosterone in dairy food items like milk, butter and cheese may lead to increased oil production and blocked pores, thereby causing acne breakouts. Carbohydrates: Processed or refined grains such as white bread, white rice, white pasta etc. may impact your blood sugar levels and increase oil production levels, further causing acne.
(Excess) salt and sugar
Salty food: Excessively salty food can cause water retention, face swelling, and an increase in oil production levels, thus increasing risk of acne breakouts. Sugar: Naturally, excessive consumption of sugar increases your blood sugar levels, to which the body responds by producing more insulin. This leads to the glands producing more oil, thus leading to oily skin and acne breakouts.
Cut alcohol intake
Regular alcohol consumption leads to dehydration of your skin, thereby making your body to increase oil production, thus inviting acne. So, reduce your intake of alcoholic drinks and swap them for low-sugar and healthy home-made drinks.
