What is the role of diet in your acne?

Acne used to be something we have always attributed to adolescence and hormone changes.  And this is certainly true. However, with adult acne becoming more and more prevalent, researchers are discovering how diet plays a huge part in the development of acne.

A typical western diet contains an incredibly high amount of refined carbohydrates, sugar, and dairy.  All three raise insulin levels which is not good for acne prone skin, or any skin, for that matter. High insulin levels trigger androgen hormones which can ultimately lead to candida overgrowth.  Furthermore, unknown food allergies can also cause inflammation and troubled skin.

Below are 5 simple daily tips you can make in your diet to help clear your skin.

  1. Eliminate dairy – Cow’s milk is designed to grows things – namely calves. It naturally contains androgens and growth hormones, including insulin growth factor 1 which causes a spike in insulin levels. One glass of milk can spike insulin levels a whooping 300 percent! As well, dairy cause moist in your body, which can be a very good environment for bacteria to grow and cause bacterial acne.
  2. Replace high glycemic calories with more fruits and vegetables. Sugar and refined flour drive up insulin levels. Try to change bread with large lettuces, pasta with zucchini spirals, pita wedges with carrots….get creative!
  3. Increase your linoleic acid. Plant oils such as grape seed, safflower, black currant, and borage are high all in linoleic and can be applied topically or added to your diet.
  4. Include foods/plants high in antioxidants that have been proven to prevent acne. These include green tea, dark berries, walnuts, and spices such as ginger and turmeric. Reishi mushroom also is known to inhibit DHT – hormone related to not only acne but hair loss.
  5. Get to know your food intolerances. Common food intolerances include gluten, eggs, yeast, and dairy.  Try eliminating  all of them for at least 2 weeks, notice differences then slowly reintroduce. But it is always recommended to see your doctor and ask to perform a food allergy test.
  6. Get your facials routine on top! Getting a professional facial will help you not only to get a deep cleaning of the skin but your beautician can recommend the right products for you and give you more tips to support your skin health. You are welcome to book your natural facial and enjoy the complete experience of a beauty treatment with an overall holistic and relaxing approach!

Take control of not only your skin conditions but your health! the role of diet on your acne is important. Follow these 5 simple, risk free, changes can help you eliminate acne, redness, and reveal the healthy skin you naturally have.