Imagine a world in which everyone would be able to enjoy clear skin. Sadly, we don’t live in an ideal world. Every year, Americans spend billions of dollars on over-the counter acne treatments. In most cases, acne is caused by diet. Treating it with topical creams will not solve the problem.
Adopting a healthier diet can reduce acne symptoms significantly, according to research. Hippocrates was an ancient Greek doctor who once said: “Let your food be medicine, and your medicine be food.”
Acne is a skin disorder that occurs when the hair follicles are clogged by oil, dirt and dead skin cells. Pimples will appear on the skin’s surface shortly after. Acne damages the skin as well as the tissues underneath. The body produces collagen to try and repair the damage. If the body doesn’t produce enough collagen, acne scars can appear.
Acne is a persistent problem for many adults well past their teenage years. 70 percent of acne patients are over 20 years old. Acne affects an individual’s emotional stability by causing dissatisfaction, feelings of embarrassment and low self-confidence. Acne can also cause anxiety, depression and anger. Acne can cause permanent disfigurement and scarring, which may affect the emotional health of patients. Both male and female acne patients can develop scarring. 95% of those who get acne will have it.
There are a number of products that claim they can reduce acne scars. Eating healthy foods is the most natural method. According to studies, a healthy eating plan can help prevent acne and heal acne scars over time. Dairy-free, omega-3-rich, low-glycemic and low-glycemic diets, for example, can help improve acne.
Continue reading to learn which diets will help you remove acne scars, and also prevent breakouts.
Dairy Free Diet
By eliminating dairy products from your diet, you can improve your skin’s texture and appearance and treat skin conditions such as acne and rosacea. Dairy products contain hormones, whey proteins and sugar that can lead to skin problems.
You can choose from a variety of plant-based milk alternatives, including almond milk, cashew and coconut milk.
Sugar-Free or Low-Glycemic Diet
Low-glycemic foods are high in antioxidants and fiber, which help to fight acne. Recent research has shown that consumption of sugary drinks, milk, and fatty products is associated with acne. Eating complex carbohydrates and low-glycemic food can help reduce the risk of acne.
Whole grains, legumes and unprocessed fruit and vegetables are rich in complex carbohydrates. There are also many unsweetened drinks to choose from, such as vitamin water, sparkling waters, green teas, hibiscus, and lemonwater.
Omega-3 Rich Diet
Antioxidants in a diet high in omega-3 fatty acid can help to reduce skin inflammation. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful toxins within the body. Omega-3 also contains retinol, or vitamin A. This helps to improve skin regeneration and heal acne scars faster.
Omega-3s are found in foods such as seafood, soy, fruits and vegetables of yellow and orange hues, blueberries, whole grain bread, brown and black rice, and quinoa.
Other herbs and spices that contain anti-inflammatory properties are: turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, parsley, garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Turmeric, cinnamon, black-pepper, parsley and ginger are also anti-inflammatory herbs and spices.
Adding more vegetables, fruits and fish to your diet is beneficial for your skin. Your skin can be naturally fueled with vitamins, minerals and nutrients that it needs to remain healthy and strong. You will not see an improvement in your skin over night, but consuming foods which reduce inflammation, increase collagen production, and block environmental toxins, can help to minimize acne breakouts and remove scars. Reduce sugar consumption, limit dairy intake and increase Omega-3s in your diet to help treat acne.
