The Acne Diet Connection

The Acne Diet Connection

Ask Dr. Z

Is diet linked to acne?

Absolutely it is.

Studies continue to demonstrate that consuming sweets, soda, pastries, dairy and even juice may contribute to acne development. This is particularly true if these foods appear in your diet on a daily basis. 

  1. Acne is an inflammatory disease. Remove foods that increase inflammation.
  2. Acne is influenced by hormones. Since hormone balance is disrupted by a high glycemic diet, avoid sugar-laden foods and simple carbohydrates.
  3. Dairy appears to be negatively associated with acne. Monitor how your breakouts respond when you reduce dairy intake; you may be surprised.
  4. Eat quality dark chocolate in moderation. Dark, rich chocolate without high levels of processed sugar provides polyphenols and anti-inflammatory support. 

The adage, “You are what you eat,” has scientific relevance when it comes to how the body handles processed foods and sugars. Think of it as healthy gut, healthy skin.

And to assist you on your skincare journey, here are a couple of lifestyle tips to assist in managing breakouts:

  1. Reduce ongoing stress that contributes to acne. This comes as no surprise to anyone who has a pattern of breakouts around stressful seasons in life.
  2. Eliminate harsh skincare practices like over scrubbing, over exfoliating and using cleansers that strip the skin are also linked to acne. 
  3. Take an oral probiotic daily. Probiotics can block the link between stress and acne, so it’s less likely to trigger breakouts.

Dr. Brian Zelickson

Founder | MD Complete