When it comes to having clear, healthy skin, most people focus on the products they use externally on their skin.

But did you know that what you eat can have a significant impact on your skin’s health too? That’s right, your diet can affect your skin in a big way, and understanding the connection between acne and nutrition can help you take a more holistic approach to acne treatment, alongside your usual skincare routine.

Why Does Diet Affect Skin?

Firstly it’s important to understand why your diet affects your skin in the first place. Food is the fuel that powers every function in your body including your skin’s health.

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and is responsible for protecting you from harmful environmental stressors and toxins, regulating temperature, and controlling water loss.

When you consume certain foods and beverages, your body has to break them down and convert them into nutrients that your organs, including your skin, can use for growth and repair.

Some foods have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to control acne’s inflammation. Other foods suppress hormones that are known to trigger acne, like insulin.

Foods that Trigger Acne

Processed Foods: Foods that are overly processed, high in sugar, or contain refined carbohydrates like white bread, cakes, and sweets, can all increase insulin production in the body.

Increased insulin levels cause the skin to produce more sebum, which can clog pores and trigger acne.

Dairy products: Milk, cheese, and other dairy products often contain hormones and growth factors that can cause inflammation in the body. These hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin, causing more oil production and acne.

Fatty Foods: Foods like fried chicken, burgers, and fried fish can trigger inflammation in the body. This inflammation can cause the skin to produce more sebum, clogging pores and triggering acne.

Foods that Help Fight Acne

Green Leafy Vegetables: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation, and clear toxins from your body.

They’re also rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production, and vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that helps to regulate the production of sebum by your skin.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods like walnuts, flaxseed, and wild-caught salmon are high in essential fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation in the body.

These fatty acids help to keep your cell membranes healthy, allowing nutrients to get in and waste to get out.

Whole Grains: Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal are high in fiber, which helps to keep your digestive system clean and healthy. These fibers can also help regulate your blood sugar levels, reducing acne breakouts.

Water is Key

Staying hydrated is another essential factor in maintaining healthy skin. Drinking sufficient water helps your skin retain moisture and stay supple. Opt for pure water instead of sugary drinks to stay well hydrated and avoid unnecessary sugar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the link between diet and acne is clear, and you can do a lot to help prevent and better manage acne by being mindful of what you eat.

Incorporate more whole, healthy foods into your diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid consuming foods that can trigger breakouts. Proactively looking after your skin health with a nutritious diet, coupled with maintaining a proper skincare routine, is key to achieving a glowing, healthy complexion.