With adult acne on the increase in most western countries, it is little wonder that people are starting to look at their diet to see if there is indeed a link between what we eat and the appearance of spots.

We are constantly assured by many of our doctors that “there is no scientific evidence that links diet to acne”.  The fact that in the medical world, skin is often referred to as the ‘third kidney’, due to its ability to cleanse the body by expelling toxins, makes this assurance questionable.

Maybe the problem with acne is that it is such a guaranteed money maker.  Why would anyone want to back up the diet claim when there is so much money to be made through pharmaceutical drugs and medicated skincare products?

It is interesting to know that many people have indeed cleared up their acne simply by changing their diet.  The problem with diet is that we are all very different and what diet works for one person simply might not work for another hence the reason why the acne v diet debate continues.

Food intolerance is a subject that is often written about and yet few people really understand what it is about or apply the information to themselves. For many adults, acne is just one of their many health problems.  Other common health problems associated with acne include, fatigue, anxiety and depression.  These are seldom linked to acne and yet many people have found that by tweaking their diet here and there and avoiding certain foodstuffs, not only have they got rid of their acne but their overall health has improved, they have more energy and any anxiety and depression have disappeared.

Foods that cause people the most problems are, sugar, yeast, dairy (milk and all foods containing milk), gluten, wheat and spicy foods.

Good health and clear skin relies upon a healthy digestive system.  Never assume that your body can digest everything that you choose to eat.

It is important for any acne sufferer to take a food diary of everything they eat and drink for a week, noting beside each day the condition of their skin.  Many acne sufferers have found the solution to their acne simply by this process and have avoided having to take any drugs or buy any expensive skincare products.

To ensure a healthy digestive system, choose natural foods such as fruit, vegetables and brown rice. If you are able to digest wheat and gluten then opt for brown seeded bread which takes longer to digest. Add fruit, nuts and seeds to natural yogurt for a healthy breakfast. Leave cakes, sweets, burgers, fast food as treats to be eaten now and again.  Invest in a Low GI cook book and learn to cook healthy and nutritious food that will nourish your skin.

To ensure that your food is being digested properly, eat slowly and never drink with your meal.  Digestive enzymes prove beneficial for many people and are available from most health stores.  Aloe Vera Juice is also beneficial for digestion and is available from most health stores and some large supermarkets.

Prebiotics/Probiotics are also beneficial especially if you have taken your fair share of antibiotics during the years and have been using the contraceptive pill.  Your colon contains 80% good bacteria and 20% yeast, antibiotics and the ‘pill’ kill off the good bacteria, which allows the yeast to take over, and the result is a condition called Candidiasis.  It is estimated that one third of the western population has this condition.  If you are dealing with other health issues as well as acne, then it is vital that you test for this condition as it may be the root cause of your acne.  A nutritionist, homeopathic or naturopathic doctor will be the best person to seek advice from as many GP’s do not acknowledge that this condition exists.

All acne prescription drugs come with the risk of unwanted side effects therefore viewing these as a last resort and opting for the safe approach of eating healthily and caring for your digestive system will ensure good health, clear skin and hopefully and long and happy life.

 

 

Article written by Elaine Mummery,a nutritionist specialising in the treatment of acne. Elaine runs her own independent acne clinic in Glasgow, Scotland which can be found at www.clinicforacne.com. Elaine is the author of the new acne book entitled Spotless – The Essential Guide to Getting Rid of Spots and Acne. Available from all good high street and online bookstores.

Tagged with: acne • Adult • Treating • Understanding

Filed under: Adult Acne

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