Cod Liver Oil, Acidophilus & Acne

Controlling inflammation is an important dietary approach for improving acne, according to Robin Young Balch, a naturopathic doctor and co-author of “Prescription for Drug Alternatives.” Inflammation increases other acne factors such as oil production and the buildup of skin cells. Cod liver oil and acidophilus may be beneficial in controlling inflammation in acne. But you should seek advice from a dermatologist first.

Benefits of Cod Liver Oil for Acne

Like other types of fish oil, cod liver oil is a good source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, which help to fight inflammation that can contribute to acne. However, cod liver oil is also well-known for its vitamin A content. This vitamin is a type of retinoid found in topical and oral acne medications such as retinoids and isotretinoin. Vitamin A is a water-soluble antioxidant, which means it can enter cells and help to neutralize unstable oxygen molecules known as free radicals. When free radicals attack and damage cells, inflammation increases, which can make acne worse.

Benefits of Acidophilus for Acne

When you consume products with Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotics, you increase the number of "friendly" bacteria in your intestines. As such, there are fewer harmful bacteria that can damage your health, including boosting levels of harmful inflammation in your body. In a study in the journal “Gut Pathogens” in January 2011, researchers indicate that the notion that intestinal bacteria play a role in inflammatory skin problems such as acne is not new. They also point out that probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus may be beneficial in reducing the inflammation — both systemic and local — that aggravates acne.

Considerations

If you're planning to combine cod liver oil and acidophilus to treat acne, keep in mind there’s very little scientific evidence to back up this treatment approach and you should always seek medical advice before combining supplements. If you are allergic to consuming acidophilus products, the “Gut Pathogens” study suggests that applying probiotics directly to your skin may help to control acne. Remember that acne is notoriously stubborn to control, so you may need to wait about six to eight weeks before any improvements occur as a result of using these supplements.

Acidophilus Precautions

Acidophilus probiotic products are generally safe to take. However, talk to your doctor before taking acidophilus, especially if you have an immunosuppressive condition such as HIV or one requiring treatment with steroids. Take this same precaution if you have or have had severe acute pancreatitis. The NYU Langone Medical Center recommends taking between 3 and 6 billion live probiotic organisms daily for general health, but speak to a dermatologist or naturopathic doctor about a more specific dose for acne.

Cod Liver Oil Precautions

Taken in high doses, cod liver oil can be toxic due to its high vitamin A content. Because there is no standard recommended dose of cod liver oil to take for acne, it’s best to consult your dermatologist or a naturopathic doctor. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that you should not exceed the dose of cod liver oil your doctor recommends. Also, children younger than 18 years old should not take cod liver oil.