Seborrhea, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a skin condition characterized by a red, itchy rash and skin scaling. Seborrhea may affect your scalp, notes the American Academy of Family Physicians, as well as your face, forehead, chest, abdomen, groin and buttocks. Seborrhea occurs more commonly in men than women, and it can affect people of all ages, including infants. Certain dietary approaches may be beneficial in treating your seborrhea, although you should always consult your doctor before using diet and nutrition in treating this condition.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition. According to the National Rosacea Society, approximately 5 percent of people in the United States may have this condition. A chronic inflammatory disorder of your skin, seborrheic dermatitis usually manifests in regions containing a significant number of sebaceous, or oil, glands. The Society notes that seborrheic dermatitis occurs in 26 percent of people with rosacea, although these two conditions are considered unrelated. Skin lesions, hair loss and itching are among the most common signs and symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis.
A Proper Diet
A proper diet in treating seborrheic dermatitis, notes naturopathic physicians Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno, co-authors of "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," involves removing common food allergens and increasing your consumption of foods that are high in biotin, B-vitamins and zinc. Biotin-rich foods include brewer's yeast, cooked egg yolks, meat, poultry, milk, soybeans, saltwater fish and whole grains. Flaxseed oil may also be beneficial in treating your seborrheic dermatitis. Murray and Pizzorno recommend consuming 1 Tbs. of flaxseed oil per day for this health purpose.
A Helpful Food
Soybeans may be a helpful food in treating your seborrheic dermatitis, due to their high biotin content. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," biotin deficiency may cause seborrheic dermatitis in infants -- a condition known as cradle cap. Soybeans also contain significant amounts of magnesium, copper, vitamin K, molydenum, manganese and iron. Soybeans may also be helpful in improving your digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight.
Warning
Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition that is best managed by a licensed healthcare professional. This health problem may lead to other health complications if it is not treated in a timely fashion, including bacterial and fungal infections and psychological stress associated with reduced self-esteem. Always exercise caution when using diet and other natural measures to treat your seborrhea. Foods and diet plans historically used in treating this condition may need further scientific research evidence to validate their purported health benefits.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Seborrhea: What It Is And How To Treat It
- National Rosacea Society: Seborrheic Dermatitis
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray, N.D., and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.; 1998
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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