Stretch marks generally occur when skin is stretched rapidly due to pregnancy or rapid weight gain, though in some cases, widespread stretch marks may be a sign of Cushing's syndrome or another adrenal gland disesase. The Mayo Clinic says there are treatments that can lessen the appearance of stretch marks, but if you want to prevent them from appearing in the first place, there are a few ways to adjust your diet to help.
Drink Water
If you want to prevent or minimize stretch marks, the Cleveland Clinic says it's important to drink plenty of water. Staying properly hydrated helps to keep your skin soft and makes it less likely to develop those pink, red or purplish streaks. Not all fluids are created equal. The Cleveland Clinic warns that beverages with caffeine can actually increase your risk of stretch marks. It suggests that if you really can't give up your caffeinated coffee, tea or soda, try to strike a balance. Drink at least as much or more water as you do the caffeinated drinks.
Watch Your Nutrition
Stretch marks can be the result of nutritional deficiencies, so be sure you're eating plenty of foods that promote healthy skin. The Cleveland Clinic says foods high in zinc are important to include in your diet. You can find zinc in foods such as fish and nuts. Don't skimp on protein. Protein-rich foods include meats and eggs. Finally, watch your vitamin intake. The Cleveland Clinic recommends foods high in vitamins A, C and D, such as carrots, citrus fruits and milk.
Watch Your Calories
Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, says stretch marks are most likely to appear when skin is stretched rapidly, so it's important to avoid rapid weight gain. Follow a healthy diet plan that includes lean meats, fish, fruits and vegetables, and fiber-rich foods. Get some exercise, too. If you're pregnant and worried about weight gain, talk to your doctor for advice on what sort of diet to follow and what kind of weight gain is reasonable and healthy.
Creams and Lotions
If stretch marks do develop, there are plenty of products on the market derived from foods that claim to help. You can find creams and lotions with ingredients such as cocoa butter, vitamin E and glycolic acid. You also may hear of home remedies that call for putting castor oil, olive oil, seaweed wraps or fruit acids on the skin. Both the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus say you can save your money. While these treatments probably won't hurt, they won't help either.
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