Acne affects many people in their teens and early twenties, and the unsightly appearance of pimples continues to plague some into adulthood. Common belief has long associated pimples with poor hygiene and dietary habits, and those who suffer from acne may also suffer from this related stigma. However, certain foods blamed for pimples actually have little or no link to acne, and sugar remains a topic of research and speculation.
The Myth of Sugar and Acne
People once commonly believed that eating sugar caused pimples, especially during adolescence. As dermatological science yielded a better understanding of acne's causes, many dismissed this belief. Researchers have recently revived the question because in clinical studies, subjects were exposed to low-glycemic and high-glycemic diets, then observed over time. Evidence indicated a link between the low-glycemic diets and lower circulation of the hormones known to play a role in the development of acne. In contrast, the high-glycemic group exhibited higher rates of acne-related breakouts. Although scientists have called for more research, these studies show some evidence that sugary foods can worsen acne.
What Causes Acne
Androgens, which are male hormones, stimulate the overproduction of sebum. This abundance of sebum on the skin is one cause of acne. Sugar's effect on the circulation of androgens may have a causal link to acne outbreaks, but it is not the sole reason pimples form. Excess dead skin may clog or irritate hair follicles, causing an irritation and a buildup of sebum just below the skin. Bacteria also affects your skin's health, and it can have the same effect. Certain medications may also contribute to an excess of sebum and cause the trademark clogging and inflammations associated with acne.
Possible Dietary Precursors to Acne
Like sugar, other foods sometimes take the blame for this condition. The belief that greasy foods and chocolate cause pimples is common, but research does not supported this. Researchers have examined other foods that are known to cause a notable increase in blood sugar. These include foods high in starch, such as potato chips and breads. Research is ongoing, but these foods' effect on blood sugar seems to be a more likely trigger for increased androgen activity.
Acne Prevention Through Diet and Hygiene
Affect future outbreaks somewhat by keeping your skin clean and healthy. Wash regularly with soap and warm water, but take care not to scrub too hard or irritate your skin. You may actually worsen the irritation by washing too frequently or vigorously. Your skin's health also depends on a balanced diet. Vitamin C boosts your skin's overall health and increases its resistance to bacteria. The Vitamins Nutrition Center recommends including vitamin A and vitamin E in your diet as well, as these vitamins increase the effectiveness of vitamin C.
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