Skin and Diet
by Katta MD
SUMMARY OF SKIN CONDITIONS AND FOOD TRIGGERS
*Children are at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies. Always speak to your pediatrician before eliminating foods
ACNE
Potential Food Triggers
• Sugar and refined carbohydrates
• Role of dairy and whey protein varies
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Recommended Tests
• 12-week diet change
AGING SKIN
Potential Food Triggers
• Sugar, refined carbohydrates
• Fried foods
• Meats grilled at high temperatures
• Trans fats
ECZEMA AND ATOPIC DERMATITIS
- Type 1 Hypersensitivity Reactions
Potential Food Triggers
• Eggs, milk, wheat, soy, seafood, and nuts
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Recommended Tests
• Skin prick tests or blood tests
• Confirm with a physician-supervised food challenge
- Delayed eczematous reactions
Potential Food Triggers
• Eggs, milk, wheat, soy, seafood, and nuts
Recommended Tests
• Food diary
• Confirm with a physician-supervised food challenge
- Systemic contact dermatitis
Potential Food Triggers
• Foods related to balsam of Peru, foods high in nickel, processed foods containing propylene glycol
Recommended tests
• Food diary
• Confirm with patch testing
ROSACEA
Potential Food Triggers
• Alcohol
• Heat-related: coffee, tea
• Capsaicin-related: peppers, spicy foods
• Cinnamaldehyderelated: tomatoes, citrus, chocolate, cinnamon
Recommended Tests
• Food diary
• 6-week avoidance diet
PSORIASIS
Potential Food Triggers
• Pro-inflammatory foods (sugar, refined carbs, unhealthy fats) may increase the risk of associated systemic diseases
• Gluten may act as a food trigger in a small percentage of psoriasis patients
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Recommended Tests
• Blood tests for gluten antibodies
• Evaluation by GI doctor, esp for those with GI symptoms
*As in other areas, everyone is different, and the research in these areas is evolving. Your dermatologic and medical history will always impact dietary recommendations