Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of your skin that can also affect connective tissue under your skin and in your lymph nodes. Its symptoms, including painful, red skin, fever and chills, are generally cured with antibiotics, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If left untreated, however, cellulitis can become life-threatening. When paired with medical treatment, a healthy diet can enhance your overall wellness and may reduce the effects of cellulitis. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Function
Gaining medical treatment for cellulitis is crucial, according to UMMC, because the condition can spread rapidly. Prompt antibiotic use can help prevent complications and expedite the healing process. Although alternative therapies for cellulitis, including dietary changes, lack research, certain foods and eating habits may lower your risk of cellulitis, support medical care in managing symptoms and enhance skin healing.
Guidelines
"Smart Medicine for Healthier Living: A Practical A-To-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults" by Janet Zand, James B. LaValle and Dr. Allan N. Spreen recommends that people with cellulitis consume at least 64 oz. of water per day, limit or avoid sugar and caffeine and consume plentiful amounts of leafy green vegetables. Sugar and caffeine foster an acidic environment in your body, which can slow healing. Phytochemicals prevalent in green vegetables, on the other hand, promote healing by enhancing immune system function.
Helpful Foods
Nutrients that enhance immune function and promote skin healing, according to UMMC, include vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and bromelain -- a compound found in pineapple. Valuable sources of vitamin C include bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, tomatoes and broccoli. For vitamin E, consume nuts, seeds and vegetable oils, such as sunflower and safflower. Flavonoids, which occur naturally in citrus fruits, blueberries, onions, grapes, tea and red wine, seem to guard against cellulitis.
Foods to Limit
In addition to increasing acidity, a diet high in added sugar can lead to poor overall nutrient intake and weight gain, according to MayoClinic.com. To cut back on sugar, limit foods and beverages that list added sugars, such as high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar or dextrose, as main ingredients. Particularly sugar-rich foods include candy, soft drinks, pancake syrup, jelly, frosting, frozen desserts and commercially baked cakes, cookies and pies. Because added sugars are not necessary for health, you can safely eliminate them from your diet, according to LaValle. Otherwise, stick to moderate consumption, such as one sugary sweet per day. Common sources of caffeine include coffee, tea, energy drinks, soft drinks, chocolate and diet supplements and products geared toward boosting energy. Consuming lean protein sources, such as fish and legumes, instead of fatty meats and dairy products, can help reduce inflammation.
References
- UMMC; Cellulitis; June 2010
- "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living: A Practical A-To-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults"; Janet Zand, James B. LaValle, Allan N. Spreen; 1999
- MayoClinic.com; Added Sugar; April 2011
- Linus Pauling Institute; Two Faces of Inflammation; Victoria Drake, Ph.D.; May 2007
