According to MayoClinic.com, acne -- pimples, blemishes or zits -- is primarily caused by hormones, buildup of bacteria and overproduction of skin oil. Another, less common, factor that can contribute to pimples is your diet. Dietary changes may be able to help improve your skin and prevent outbreaks. Talk to your doctor if you believe your diet is contributing to pimples.
Dairy Products
Hormones are a contributing factor to acne. While milk is rich in calcium and protein -- which is essential for maintaining overall good health -- milk also contains high levels of hormones, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. This is because most milk comes from pregnant dairy cattle. Hormones found in dairy products can lead to increased outbreaks. Look for alternative ways of receiving calcium and protein. For calcium, consider calcium-fortified products, such as breads and cereals. Whole grains, soy, nuts and fish can provide you with adequate amounts of protein.
Grains and Carbohydrates
During stressful times -- especially if you are stressed out for an extended period -- your body is likely to release more hormones. One hormone the body releases in excess while under stress is insulin. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology indicates that obese women with acne often have higher levels of insulin. To help control insulin levels, avoid refined carbohydrates, such as sugar and white flour. Refined carbohydrates can cause blood glucose levels to rise quickly, which causes insulin levels to spike. Make the switch from refined carbohydrates to whole grains. Whole grains can help to stabilize insulin levels, which can control acne outbreaks.
Allergies
Food allergies can trigger acne outbreaks for some individuals. If you eat foods that your body is allergic to, you may experience a toxic reaction. With a food allergy, your immune system fights the food as an organism invading the body, according to Center for Food Allergies. As a result, you may experience swelling, redness and inflammation of the skin. Because everyone is different, one food may cause outbreaks for you, while it has no effect on another individual. For instance, chocolate -- which is made partially of milk -- may cause you to break out, while it may not affect someone else.
Considerations
Talk to your doctor to ensure that you are receiving adequate nutrition, prior to making drastic changes to your diet to help control outbreaks. Diet may not be the cause of all acne. If you have pimples that do not respond to diet changes or over-the-counter acne treatments, consult a dermatologist. Your acne may require prescription-strength medications or laser therapy. A doctor will be able to recommend the best course of treatment for your particular type of acne, as well as your lifestyle.
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