Acne – diet and nutrition role

Acne is the scientific term for a variety of skin problems, including pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, and nodules. Acne is the most common skin disease. It is estimated that 80% of people between ages 11 and 30 experience outbreaks of acne. Most acne outbreaks occur on the face, neck, back, chest, shoulders, and buttocks.

Scientists and patients have long debated the role that diet plays in creating, maintaining, and treating acne. Currently, conventional medicine does not acknowledge any role for nutrition in acne, even though some studies have shown a relationship. However, there is emerging alternative literature on the benefits of proper nutrition for acne.

A specific dietary plan for acne may contain:

- Dietary changes suggested for acne include increasing your intake of beta-carotene, which is found in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, including carrots, pumpkin, and cantaloupe.

- Daily recommended portions include two cups of fruit and two and a half cups of vegetables, varying the types of fruits and vegetables. With vegetables, for instance, variation comes from choosing among five vegetable groups: starchy, dark green, orange, legumes, and other vegetables.

- Eating bland foods, like oatmeal, rice, etc. and eliminating fried foods, citrus, and spicy foods.

- At least three ounces of whole grains is recommended per day, with at least half of all grains consumed being whole grains.

- Three cups of low or non-fat milk or milk products per day is recommended.

- No trans fats at all should be consumed, if possible. Instead, eat good fats, which are found in fish, nuts, and vegetable oils.

- Some alternative practitioners suggest increasing zinc, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E, among other vitamins and minerals.

Enjoy acne free skin with healthy diet & nutrition.