The American Academy of Dermatology notes that nearly every adult has a few moles on their body. Moles, or darkened or raised skin, are often not something to be concerned about, although they can be a precursor to some types of cancer. Many things can affect the growth of moles, including nutrition.
Antioxidants
One of the best things you can do when it comes to moles is protect your skin from the sun. While sunscreen and protective clothing is a must, the foods you eat may also play a role. Foods high in antioxidants, or compounds that protect you from cellular damage caused by sun exposure and other environmental hazards, may keep your skin healthy and limit the growth of moles. Eat foods such as ripened bell and hot peppers, tomatoes, watermelon and blueberries to boost your intake of antioxidants.
Lignans
Lignans are a phytochemical found in the foods you eat that may help reduce your risk of cancer; as skin cancer can sometimes manifest in moles, lignans may prevent the growth of cancerous moles. Additionally, lignans may soothe skin inflammation that may influence moles. A study published in the July 2011 issue of "Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry" indicates that lignans may have an anti-inflammatory effect. As this research was carried out in a laboratory setting, more research is needed. You can get lignans from flaxseed, sunflower seeds, cashews and peanuts.
Gluten
Eating gluten may contribute to skin abnormalities such as moles and skin tags if you suffer from Celiac's disease. This condition results from your body's inability to tolerate gluten and absorb some nutrients in the foods you eat. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse notes that more than 2 million Americans have Celiac's disease. Avoid eating foods high in gluten to dampen mole growth; these foods include anything that contains rye, barley or wheat.
Fat
Getting too much fat in your diet may contribute to skin cancer, a disease that often starts as a mole. Dr. Harvey Arbesman, a dermatologist and University at Buffalo professor, presented evidence at the 1998 annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology that correlates fat intake with the incidence of nonmelanoma cancer. Limit your fat intake to 35 percent or less of your total caloric intake for the day.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: Moles
- Fox News; 9 Sun Protective Foods; C. Kilham; July 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Skin Cancer; December 2009
- "Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry"; Plant Phenylpropanoids as Emerging Anti-Inflammatory Agents; L. Korkina, et al.; July 2011
- Daily Fiber Food; Lignan: Foods High in Lignans; May 2011
- dLife; Diabetes Q&A; L. Quintana, EdD, RD, LD, CDE,CPT
