Seborrheic dermatitis is chronic inflammation of the skin, characterized by yellow, greasy scales that typically involve the scalp and face. According to the journal "American Family Physician," it is not known what exactly causes this condition; however, hormone levels, nutritional deficiencies and fungal infections are associated with seborrheic dermatitis. A diet that eliminates food allergens and includes foods that are rich in essential fatty acids, biotin and vitamin D may help individuals suffering from seborrheic dermatitis.
Sources of Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect, thus they can reduce skin inflammation. Essential fatty acids also act as carriers for the fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E, which are all important for skin healing. Some conditions associated with essential fatty acids deficiency include eczema, psoriasis and other forms of dermatitis. Dietary sources of essential fatty acids include coldwater fish such as cod, haddock, salmon, halibut and mackerel. Other sources include nuts and seeds such as flax, pumpkin, sesame and sunflower seeds; avocados; and dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, purslane and mustard greens.
According to a study published in the June 1993 issue of the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology," there is a link between essential fatty acids and seborrheic dermatitis in infants. The researchers found that infants suffering from seborrheic dermatitis have an altered essential fatty acid pattern, which may be important in the development of this disease.
Vitamin D Foods
A study published in the August 2005 issue of "Endocrine Reviews" found that the active component of vitamin D may have potential therapeutic indications in several inflammatory diseases, including skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis. Dietary sources of vitamin D include liver; egg yolks; fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna and catfish; and mushrooms. Fortified foods like milk, cheese, cereals and orange juice are also good sources of vitamin D.
Foods With Biotin
Adequate levels of biotin promote healthy skin and hair. A deficiency in biotin may cause symptoms like fatigue; skin inflammation; dry, flaky skin; and hair loss. Dietary sources of biotin include egg yolk, milk, liver, kidney, cooked oats, brewer's yeast, nuts, soybeans, brown rice, wheat germs, lentils and mug bean sprouts. The friendly bacteria from the large intestine produces significant amounts of biotin. A study published in December 1998 in the "International Journal of Dermatology" found that an impairment of biotin recycling was associated with seborrheic dermatitis in children who were also suffering from a genetic disorder.
References
- "American Family Physician"; Seborrheic Dermatitis: An Overview; Robert A. Schwartz, M.D., M.P.H., et al.; July 2006
- "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology"; Essential Fatty Acids in Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis; A. Tollesson et al.; 1993
- PubMed.gov: "Endocrine Reviews"; Noncalcemic Actions of Vitamin D Receptor Ligands; S. Nagpal et al; August 2005
- PubMed.gov: "International Journal of Dermatology"; Biotin Recycling Impairment in Phenylketonuric Children With Seborrheic Dermatitis; K.H. Schulpis et al.; December 1998
