Eczema is a common disorder that causes dry, crusty rashes, skin patches and/or blisters on your skin. An estimated 15 million U.S. residents have eczema, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, many of whom have family or personal history of allergies. Since eczema is chronic, treatment aims to help reduce your symptoms and prevent periodic flareups. In addition to topical creams, avoiding allergens and stress relief, a healthy diet, inclusive of particular foods, may improve your symptoms.
Fish
Fish provides valuable amounts of protein and contains less saturated fat than red meat and dark-meat poultry. According to research published in the "Archives of Disease in Childhood" in July 2008, fish consumption may also help minimize your eczema symptoms. In the study, dietary data regarding infants born to 8,176 families in western Sweden in 2003 were examined six months after the infants' birth and again six months later. Researchers found a significant link between early introduction of fish to the children's diets and reduced eczema prevalence. To reap potentially similar benefits, incorporate grilled, baked, steamed or broiled fish into balanced meals routinely. Fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, mackerel, halibut and sardines provide omega-3 fatty acids, which may help alleviate inflammation associated with eczema.
Flaxseed and Walnuts
As additional sources of omega-3 fatty acids, regular consumption of flaxseed and/or walnuts may reduce inflammation linked with eczema and improve your overall symptoms. Incorporate ground flaxseed over whole-seed for optimum absorption. Incorporate ground flaxseed and/or whole, chopped or crushed walnuts into baked goods, smoothies, yogurts, cereals and other dishes regularly, particularly if you do not consume fatty fish.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir provide healthy, or "friendly," bacteria known as probiotics. Though additional research is needed, probiotics may help manage symptoms of eczema, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Probiotics may also prove useful if you have food allergies that affect your digestive system and help prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria. To ensure maximum probiotic benefits, choose yogurt and kefir that list "live active cultures" on nutrition labels.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are valuable sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that support your immune system's ability to protect your body from infections and diseases. The antioxidant vitamin C may provide exceptional benefits for eczema sufferers, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Incorporate fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables into your meals and snacks regularly, which tend to provide the densest amounts of antioxidants. Fruits and vegetables particularly high in vitamin C include berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, mangos, cantaloupe, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, winter squash, leafy greens, peas, red and green bell peppers, brussels sprouts and broccoli.
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