Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It affects people of all ages, but is most common in children. While there is no cure for eczema, there are things you can do to control it.

One of the most important things is to pay attention to the foods you eat. Certain foods can trigger flare-ups, while others can help keep your skin healthy. In this article, we’ll explore the foods you should eat and avoid if you have eczema.

The Best Foods for Eczema

If you have eczema, it’s important to eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of nutrient-rich foods. Here are some of the best foods you can eat to help control your eczema:.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a key driver of eczema symptoms, so eating more omega-3s may help reduce the severity of your eczema.

You can also take fish oil supplements if you don’t like the taste of fish.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collard greens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can help nourish your skin. They’re especially rich in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your skin from damage.

Try adding more leafy greens to your diet by tossing them in salads or blending them into smoothies.

Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotics are good bacteria that live in your gut and help support your immune system.

Research has shown that people with eczema tend to have an imbalance of gut bacteria, so adding more probiotics to your diet may help reduce inflammation and improve your skin health. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

Colorful Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals that can help keep your skin healthy. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect your skin from damage.

Try to eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables every day to get the most benefits.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are rich in fiber and other nutrients that can help support your overall health.

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They’re also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can help regulate your blood sugar and prevent spikes that can trigger eczema flare-ups.

Foods to Avoid if You Have Eczema

While certain foods can help control eczema, others can make it worse. Here are some foods to avoid if you have eczema:.

Dairy

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can be problematic for people with eczema. Many people with eczema are also allergic to milk protein, which can trigger flare-ups.

If you think you might be allergic to dairy, try cutting it out of your diet for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve. If they do, you may need to avoid dairy for the long term.

Gluten

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Some people with eczema may have a gluten intolerance that can trigger inflammation and worsen their symptoms.

If you suspect that gluten is a problem for you, try eliminating it from your diet for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve.

Sugar

Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and trigger eczema flare-ups. Try to avoid foods that are high in added sugars, like candy, soda, and baked goods. Instead, choose foods that are naturally sweetened, like fruit.

Fried Foods

Fried foods like french fries and fried chicken are high in trans fats, which can trigger inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that people who eat a diet high in fried foods are more likely to have eczema.

Try to avoid fried foods as much as possible and opt for healthier cooking methods like baking or grilling instead.

Processed Foods

Processed foods like chips, crackers, and frozen dinners are often high in preservatives, additives, and other chemicals that can trigger inflammation and worsen eczema symptoms. Try to eat more whole, natural foods instead.

Conclusion

If you have eczema, paying attention to the foods you eat can help you control your symptoms and improve your overall skin health.

Focus on eating a varied diet that includes plenty of nutrient-rich foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and colorful fruits and vegetables. Avoid trigger foods like dairy, gluten, sugar, fried foods, and processed foods as much as possible.