Acne is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes pimples, white heads, black heads, redness, pain and, in some cases, scarring. Acne is most common during teen years and tends to dissipate by age 30, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, you can experience symptoms at any age. In addition to good skin hygiene, stress management and medical treatments, when necessary, a healthy diet may improve your symptoms.
Carrots and Carrot Juice
Carrots and carrot juice supply rich amounts of the vitamin A form known as beta-carotene. Vitamin A may provide effects similar to retinoid drugs -- medications often used to treat acne, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, without posing risks for side effects. A 4 oz serving of canned carrot juice provides 450 percent of adults' daily recommended allowance, or RDA, of vitamin A. A half-cup serving of boiled carrot slices provides 270 percent. Enjoy carrots on their own or incorporated into dishes, such as carrot or vegetable soup, casseroles and fresh vegetable salads for the best potential results.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are also rich in betacarotene. A half-cup serving of boiled spinach provides 230 percent of adults' RDA for vitamin A. The same amount of boiled kale provides 190 percent. Other nutritious greens that may promote clear, healthy skin include mustard greens, parsley greens, carrot greens, romaine and leaf lettuce. Choose greens deepest in color, which tend to contain the densest amounts of nutrients. When consuming lighter-colored greens, aim for larger portions.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have not been stripped of valuable nutrient and fiber content during food processing. As a result, they provide more nutritional benefits and have a more positive impact on your blood sugar levels compared to refined grains, such as white flour. High-glycemic foods, or foods that may dramatically affect your blood sugar, may trigger or worsen acne symptoms, according to a 2009 "Skin Therapy Letter" report. Low-glycemic foods, on the other hand, may improve your hormone levels and lead to fewer symptoms. Examples of low-glycemic, whole grain foods include 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, old fashioned oatmeal, long-grain brown rice, wild rice, whole quinoa, pearled barley and air-popped popcorn.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish, such as salmon, tuna, lake trout, halibut, mackerel and flounder, are prime sources of omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats known to reduce inflammation and promote positive heart health and brain function. While research is ongoing, according to the "Skin Therapy Letter" report, omega-3 fatty acids may help to alleviate inflammation associated with clogged pores and minimize acne symptoms. Since typical Western diets contain more inflammatory foods, such as meats, and deficient amounts of omega-3 fats, choose cold-water fish over meat regularly for heightened benefits. Healthy cooking techniques for fish include baking, broiling, grilling with nonstick cooking spray and steaming.
Member Comments