What Foods Should Be Avoided To Prevent Acne?

Studies that discount diet as a cause of acne are more than 30 years old and cannot be relied on. So says Valori Treloar, a Maryland-based dermatologist, in a commentary published in the September 2008 issue of the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology." Acne trigger foods vary from person to person. The best way to determine which ones affect you is to eliminate foods one by one for several weeks at a time to see if your skin improves.

Carbohydrates

Eating a low-glycemic diet can improve acne, according to "Prescription for Drug Alternatives." High-glycemic foods--foods that cause a quick surge in blood glucose levels--cause insulin levels to surge. Insulin triggers inflammation in the body and skin, as well as excess production of oil. When oil, dead skin cells and bacteria combine in the pores, acne flares up. On the other hand, low-glycemic foods cause a slow increase in blood glucose and insulin levels, so this reaction is less likely to occur. Eat more vegetables, fruits, fish and lean meats. Switch to whole grains instead of refined grains, but don't overdo it on these healthier carbohydrates either.

Meat and Dairy

Hormones from meat can expose you to the wrong kind of hormones, warns the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Also, milk you use in your tea, cereal or for baking mostly comes from cows that are pregnant and contain high levels of hormones. These hormones set oil glands off and your skin becomes more oily, which can exacerbate acne. Try substituting soy or rice drink for milk whenever possible and avoid eating cheese, meat, poultry and eggs. The AOCD recommends getting calcium and protein from other food sources or taking supplements.

Chocolate and Greasy Foods

The debate rages on about the role these foods play in acne. However, the AOCD points out chocolate might be an acne trigger for some people. Also, a study conduced in Oslo found a link between chocolate and chip consumption and acne in teenage girls. Keep in mind many chocolates contain milk and high levels of sugar--two foods linked to acne flares. Eliminate these foods to see if your acne clears up. If you crave the taste of chocolate, try a chocolate made for diabetics, or see if a small bite of unsweetened dark chocolate can keep your blemishes at bay. Also, switch to baked, grilled or broiled foods instead of the greasy variety.