For years, chocolate has been blamed for acne outbreaks. Researchers have since determined that acne can be caused by a number of factors -- fluctuating hormone levels, skin irritation, some medications or even simply a family history of the disorder. Sometimes the cause of acne is unclear. Chocolate may be linked to acne, but probably not in the manner you suspect.
Chocolate and Acne
No scientific evidence exists to support the idea that eating chocolate causes acne, points out the University of Alabama Health System. Rather, acne is caused when skin follicles become clogged and bacteria proliferate. Conversely, chocolate may even help to prevent acne -- when applied topically. Creams made of ground raw cocoa beans are gaining in popularity, and chocolate facials are not unheard of.
Sugar
If chocolate itself doesn't cause acne, researchers have hypothesized, then perhaps it is the sugar that comes with the chocolate. This may not be so far off the mark. While no studies have directly linked sugar consumption to acne, a diet low in refined carbohydrates, including sugar, can help to prevent or improve cases of acne. Given that acne can be triggered by hormonal fluctuations, and that diet can influence hormones, this is a reasonable idea.
The Western Diet
The main culprit behind acne may be the Western diet as a whole. In Western culture, 79 percent to 95 percent of individuals experience acne, according to Colorado State University. On the other hand, the Kitivans in Papua New Guinea experience no acne at all. Their diet does not include any refined carbohydrates, preservatives, artificial colors or any of the other ingredients we associate with many Westernized foods. It is likely that chocolate, when combined with white flour, sugar and other ingredients, may cause acne, whereas chocolate in a pure state probably does not.
Recommendations
To enjoy chocolate without risking a breakout, eat a couple of squares of dark chocolate that is very rich in cocoa. For example, four squares of dark chocolate that consists of 85 percent cocoa provides fewer than 5 g of sugar, according to Livestrong.com's MyPlate. The amount of sugar in a chocolate bar increases as the percentage of cocoa in the bar becomes lower, so train your taste buds to enjoy the richest chocolate available. Ensure that your overall diet consists of protein, vegetables and other complex carbohydrates, and you're likely to see your acne improve.
References
- University of Alabama Medicine: Acne
- Columbia University; Chocolate Draws Out the Raw Truth; Denise Oliveira
- Colorado State University; Western Diet Found to Influence Acne...; Jennifer Dimas; December 5, 2002
- LIVESTRONG.com -- MyPlate: 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Acne
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