Eating a healthy diet is important for both the body and the mind. What you put into your body affects not only the interior muscles, organs and tissues, but also your exterior skin. Though a definitive cause of acne has yet to be determined, many experts now connect food to this skin condition. Fermented foods are often linked to improved digestion, and therefore may help some people with their acne. Work with your doctor to develop the best treatment for your acne.
Acne
Acne is a skin condition that shows up most often on the face, and is characterized by cysts and lesions. In the book, "Principles of Skin Care," by dermatologist Rebecca Penzer, she explains that acne is a hormonally driven condition where the sebaceous glands are reacting to circulating androgens. Sebum production is increased as hormones levels raise during adolescence. Acne can continue into adulthood, though, and is thought to be affected by diet and stress.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are ones that have gone through a natural chemical process where carbohydrates are converted to alcohol. More importantly, they produce lactic acid, which helps in the digestive process, notes Ori Hofmekler in his book, "The Warrior Diet." This good bacteria also helps to prevent food spoilage, and the process of fermenting foods was used often before the invention of the refrigerator. Naturally fermented foods also contain high levels of B-vitamins and help to break down protein into amino acids that your body uses for a number of functions.
Effects
In her book, "An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods," Elise Marie Collins recommends eating fermented foods to treat acne, as they contain beneficial bacteria helpful for digestion. Acne is sometimes linked to faulty digestion. Collins notes yogurt, kimchi and miso are possible choices. Still, Ellen W. Cutler points out in her book, "The Food Allergy Cure," that fermented foods such as sauerkraut, vinegar and yeast are common allergens which can make acne worse. Fermented foods can therefore have a positive or negative impact on your acne, depending on your constitutional makeup.
Considerations
Acne is a complex condition that has many treatment approaches. See a dermatologist to determine which treatment is right for you, whether diet-based or prescription medication. Long-term acne can lead to permanent marks on the skin, so it is best to find the best treatment as soon as possible. Though fermented foods are generally considered safe, make sure that they are not past their expiration date and that they have been pasteurized to maintain safety.
References
- "Principles of Skin Care"; Rebecca Penzer; 2010 (PDF)
- "The Warrior Diet"; Ori Hofmekler; 2007
- "An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods"; Elise Marie Collins; 2010
- "The Food Allergy Cure"; Ellen W. Cutler; 2003
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