Acne afflicts 85 percent of all American teens, according to the American Academy of Dermatologists. Until the 1960s, acne was blamed partly on bad hygiene, greasy foods and chocolate. Researchers are now looking at the link between food and acne differently, and exploring nutritional acne treatments. According to a 2008 article in "Lipids in Health and Disease," chromium, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, selenium and zinc may have some benefits in treating acne. No evidence to support using tuna for acne exists, but tuna does contain omega-3 fatty acids and selenium, and can be part of a healthy diet.
Step 1
Grill fresh tuna with lemon juice for a skin-healthy dinner. Tuna contains selenium and niacin, both of which are necessary for healthy skin. Selenium helps preserve skin's elasticity and also acts as an antioxidant. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is essential for healthy skin and is often used to treat the skin condition pellagra.
Step 2
Eat tuna salad on whole grain bread. According to researchers at New York University's Langone Medical Center, a diet low in high glycemic foods, such as refined carbohydrates, may help reduce acne. Further studies are needed, but whole grain breads contain more nutrients and fiber than highly processed white breads.
Step 3
Replace two servings of red meat or fast food with tuna every week. While its acne-fighting properties have not been proven, it is well known that the omega-3 fatty acids in tuna raise your levels of HDLs, or good cholesterol. They also help support your immune system and keep your skin healthy.
Tips and Warnings
- Take a vitamin E supplement daily with your tuna to ensure you get all of the benefits of the selenium it contains. Selenium and vitamin E support each other's functions in the body.
- Never attempt to treat any serious condition, even acne, only with food or supplements without first consulting your physician.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh tuna
- Water-packed tuna
- Whole grain bread
- Vitamin E supplements
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