Dry skin can have many causes, and is often treated with topical creams, lotions and salves that are designed to hydrate and trap moisture in the skin. However, dry, itchy skin can also be treated in a more natural, holistic way by eating and avoiding certain types of foods.
Reduced Sugar
When you eat too much sugar in your diet, it can cause your system to have an inflammatory response. This inflammation can actually make dry skin problems worse and can slow down the healing process. Avoid food products high in sugar, such as refined white and brown sugar, honey, corn syrup, maple syrup and agave nectar. Replace these sweeteners with alternative sweeteners that do not cause an inflammatory response in the body, such as xylitol or stevia.
Reduced Dairy
People who suffer from eczema, which is a chronic dry skin disorder, often notice that their condition worsens when they consume a lot of dairy products. Reducing your consumption of dairy products may improve your dry and flaky skin condition. Avoid products such as milk, cheeses, yogurt, butter and processed or packaged foods that contain casein or other milk derivatives.
Increasing Oils
Certain oils can help increase skin's suppleness and elasticity, which can help improve the ability of the skin to stay properly hydrated and soft. These oils include olive oil, which is high in monounsaturated fat, and coconut oil, which contains medium-chain saturated fat. Eat at least 2 tbsp. of supplemental oils per day to improve dry or itchy skin.
Increasing Hydration
If the body is not properly hydrated, dehydration can result. This in turn can cause the body to react by decreasing skin oils that can lead to dry and flaky skin. Drink at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water daily, which will keep your internal organs and skin supple and functioning properly.
References
- BCM; Healthy Foods Contribute to Healthy Skin; Graciela Gutierrez; March 29, 2010
- Iowa State University: Organic Milk Consumption and Eczema in Children
- Bastyr; Calm the Vicious Cycle of Eczema With a Few Natural Treatments; Danya Epstein, ND; May 19, 2011
- University of Cincinnati; Daily Fluid Intake; Case Western Reserve University Jane Korsberg; March 30, 2009
- Smart Skin Care: Skin and blood sugar. Is there a connection?
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