Acne can be a distressing skin condition.
Acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne . It affects mainly teenagers, although it can affect people much older. The changes in hormonal levels often affect the skin and acne is a common outcome.
A diet deficient in nutrients and high in toxins will affect the balance of the hormones and the skin.
Research has shown that a diet low Glycaemic Index load diet can help give relief[1]. This low GI diet means you need to avoid all foods that will release sugars quickly into the body. So avoid all obviously sweet foods such as sugars cakes soft drinks. Also avoid the high GI food such as white bread, white rice, and large amounts of potatoes.
Dairy products have traditionally been seen as likely to aggravate acne research shows that acne will often improve when milk is avoided[2] .
Often mood changes such as depression anxiety and anger occur with acne.
An interesting study recently found that increasing by increasing fish oil, chromium, zinc and selenium both acne and the mental health symptoms were relieved[3] .
Zinc is often low when acne occurs, as alcohol depletes reserves of zinc and other nutrients it is important to avoid drinking.
Vitamin A is another important nutrient, but take care if taking vitamin A as a supplement, it is safer to take it in the form of beta carotene; which you body can convert safely to vitamin A.
There are many herbs that are effective in treating acne such as calendula, Echinacea and poke root. There are many more herbs the different roles of these herbs include balancing the hormones, supporting the skin, detoxifying the body, and boosting immunity.
It is best to consult a naturopath so that the best diet, nutrimental support and herbs can be selected for you, so that you have clear skin and feel great.
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References
1. Smith, R.N., et al., A low-glycemic-load diet improves symptoms in acne vulgaris patients: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr, 2007. 86: p. 107 - 15.
2. Adebamowo CA, et al., Milk consumption and acne in adolescent girls. Dermatology Online Journal, 2006. 12(4): p. 25.
3. Rubin, M., K. Kim, and A. Logan, Acne vulgaris, mental health and omega-3 fatty acids: a report of cases. Lipids in Health and Disease, 2008. 7(1): p. 36.
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