"You are what you eat" is the old adage to live by when it comes to nutrition. However, conventional research indicates there is no direct significant correlation between diet and acne. Of course, eating a healthy, well balanced diet that is vitamin and nutrient rich can't hurt, but it certainly does not prevent breakouts.
Alternative studies examining the effects of holistic, naturopathic and Ayruvedic treatments on acne are on the rise espousing a different theory. Complementary and alternative therapies fundamentally believe that what happens on externally is a reflection of what is physiologically imbalanced internally. Using this paradigm, nutrition can play a role in treatment of symptoms. However, more research is needed to validate these claims.
The Facts
Acne is a categorical term for a common skin condition affecting approximately 80 to 85 percent of individuals ages 11 to 30. The acute cause of acne is caused by a clogged pore, excess oil in the skin, bacteria or inflammation resulting in the dreaded "zit." According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting 40 to 50 million people. Genetics and hormones dictate who experiences acne and to what degree. It may seem like food and stress contribute and in a round about way they may. Hormone profiles can be affected by changing stress levels, which can lead to poor food choices making it appear that the food is the culprit for the breakout.
Healthy nutrition practices are always a plus and according to the Department of Health and Human Services, Dietary Guidelines for Americans, include consuming 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of veggies daily; 3 oz. of whole grains; 3 cups of low or non-fat dairy products. Saturated fats should account for less than 10 percent of total daily fat consumption. Increasing fiber consumption to meet the RDA of 25g to 35g daily can help keep the digestive tract free of toxins which can manifest in the skin.
Holistic Treatment Options
Holistic nutrition treatments include increasing consumption of beta-carotene rich foods, such as carrots, pumpkins, cantaloupe,and sweet potatoes, to name a few. Other alternative recommendations include increasing daily consumption of Vitamins A, B-2, B-3, E and Zinc. Check with your dermatologist about supplemental dosage recommendations as excessive intake of Vitamin A and E can be toxic.
Ayurvedic Remedies
Ayurvedic treatments that focus on nutrition involve eating oatmeal, rice and apple sauce and other mild foods, in place of spicy and acidic foods. This helps to calm the aggitated dosha and restore balance. Herbs, such as fennel, gotu kola and cumin, have been used as remedies in this modality in the form of teas and supplements.
Naturopathic Cures
Naturopathic treatments suggest eating a high protein, low refined carbohydrate diet. Other naturopathic recommendations include avoiding fried and processed foods, high-fat dairy products and caffeine. Supplements that may help acne treatment such as Brewer's Yeast, chromium, flaxseed oil, selenium, Vitamin C are also suggested. Herbs and essential oils that are used in naturopathic healing for acne are tee tree oil, red clover, milk thistle, chaste tree berry, dandelion and burdock. Using hot compresses, masks and skin applications of essential oils and herbs are also common practices in natural medicine.
Expert Insight
Western treatments for acne may not be scientifically linked to successfully correlate the relationship between food and acne; however there may be some wisdom in Eastern practices even if they are not yet scientifically validated via traditional modalities. Always consult with your phyiscian before trying any alternative methods of treatment and dosage information.
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