Teens with Acne – The Role of Nutrition
Acne, spots, and greasy skin eruptions are just a few skin changes that can effect teenagers. Hormones, along with many other factors, including bacteria, skin cell abnormalities, genetics, poor lifestyle, poor diet, and the effects of stress play a role in its progression.
Though the condition is typically treated with medication, lifestyle factors, including your diet can play a powerful role in controlling and reducing symptoms. By learning to chart your cycle with your FertilityCare Practitioner, one can understand the naturally occurring phases of fertility and infertility and also monitor and maintain one’s reproductive cycle and health.
The following are the most effective ways to support and control acne.
Avoid blood sugar fluctuations by following a balanced diet which in simple terms means reducing foods like fizzy drinks, white bread, sweets, chocolate, ice-cream, biscuits, cakes, and sugary breakfast cereals. These foods cause dramatic fluctuations in the blood sugar levels and exacerbate acne.
Eat whole grains which are gluten-free, brown rice, gluten-free pasta, fruit, vegetables, sauerkraut, dairy-free yoghurts, dairy-free milk (fortified with calcium) for example, almond milk, rice milk, oat milk, hemp milk, etc. Check with a Nutritional Health Coach about eating other foods to support your intake of calcium. Eggs are also to be avoided. They have been found to be problematic with acne.
Food Intolerance may also play its part in the imbalance in the body and cause inflammation.
Omega 3 fatty acids are critical to the resolution of inflammation, try some of these, flaxseeds, chia seeds, salmon, walnuts, mackerel, and broccoli.
Eat healthy proteins with each meal. This will keep your blood sugars level.
Fill the plate with vegetables and eat as much fruit as you can daily, these foods deliver anti-inflammatory antioxidants and other vital skin-supportive nutrients such as vitamin C.
Probiotics found in fermented foods could help improve acne or take a good probiotic supplement.
Liver support is vital in the balance of hormones so cleaning up your diet is a natural detox. Drinking lots of water and herbal teas, for example, peppermint and camomile are great.
Zinc and Vitamin A are important for your skin’s renewal and healing.
Exercise and stress management are essential for healthy hormones and balanced blood sugars, which all support and prevent acne.
The emotional effects of acne cannot be underestimated. We need to listen to the individual who has concerns and support them as much as possible.
If you would like further information or you wish to make an appointment for an in-person or Zoom consultation with Aine O Reilly Mc Dermott, call / text 0871346038 or email aine.nutrition@gmail.com
