Acne is a condition in which excess oil becomes trapped in the pores of the skin, causing inflammation and promoting the growth of bacteria. Many medical professionals believe that diet has an impact on acne and the skin. Making some dietary adjustments to include certain foods in the diet can reduce the appearance of acne and promote smooth skin.
Fiber
Adding high-fiber foods to your diet can reduce the appearance of acne and promote smoother skin. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," adding high-fiber foods to your diet promotes colon cleansing, allowing toxins to pass through the body faster. High-fiber foods include bran cereals; fruits such as apples, mangoes and kiwifruit; whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat spaghetti and wheat germ; legumes such as kidney beans, black beans and lentils; and vegetables such as artichokes, sweet potatoes and turnips. According to "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies," by Selene Yeager, foods high in fiber also promote weight loss and colon health.
Raw Foods
Adding more raw foods to your diet can aid in clearing up blemishes and promoting smoother skin. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," raw foods, such as beets, cashews, almonds and Swiss chard are recommended. Rhubarb and spinach can also be used in limited amounts. Caution should be used with these foods as they are high in oxalic acid. According to oxalicacidinfo.com, oxalic acid is a potentially toxic chemical that appears in dark green leafy foods, usually in relatively high levels. This chemical can increase the risk of kidney stones and should be avoided if you have a history of kidney stones.
Zinc
Adding foods that are rich in zinc to your diet can promote smoother skin as well. Foods high in zinc include soybeans, whole grains, raw nuts, shellfish and sunflower seeds. Zinc is also available in supplement form. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," zinc has antibacterial properties that help keep the oil-producing glands in balance, preventing acne outbreaks and leading to smoother skin. According to "Food--Your Miracle Medicine," by Jean Carper, the U.S. recommended daily allowance of zinc is 15 mg. In addition to promoting smoother skin, zinc is reputed for its ability to boost the memory.
References
- "Prescription fo Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies"; Selene Yeager; 1998
- Oxalic Acid and Foods
- "Food--Your Miracle Medicine"; Jean Carper; 1993
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