Good news for those with acne...
By thetis74
@thetis74 (1525)
August 8, 2011 11:13pm CST
We have been misled into thinking that some foods can aggravate the emergence of breakouts.
But there is no scientific proof that nuts or colas can trigger flare-ups, but if they or other foods seem to act as a trigger for you, there's no harm in avoiding them. Numerous studies have failed to show that even large amounts of chocolate can trigger outbreaks of acne.
A few people are allergic to chocolate and may develop a rash when they eat it. But that is not acne.
2 people like this
3 responses
@allyoftherain (7208)
• United States
30 Nov 11
The connection between acne and diet has been a subject of debate in the dermatologist community for decades. I've read articles and books by dermatologists who swear by the diet/lifestyle connection, and then some by those who dismiss it completely.
Recently read a book called "The Clear Skin Diet" by Alan C. Logan and Valori Treloar, which presents the argument for the diet and acne connection very well by referencing studies (and deconstructing some studies like the ones about chocolate that you mention) and long-term observations of acne in cultures introduced to the Western diet. It was a good book, one of my favorites, and I think it's what made me a believer in the diet/lifestyle and acne connection. I know personally, when I take good care of myself and avoid junk foods, get plenty of exercise, and plenty of sleep, my skin clears better than any lotions or potions have ever made it.
Of course, diet and lifestyle are not the only factors that could potentially cause acne. Acne's a pretty complex condition, and treatments for it have to be tailored to the individual. No tips, tricks, or treatment plans are going to work for everyone who tries them.
1 person likes this
@catof1 (683)
• United States
9 Aug 11
I think we all male and female just crave certain things that our bodies need (with in reason) and usualy as a result of our body chemistry changing due to hormones, heat, cold season sun or not and when that happens are body goes through a transition that causes us to break out.
@chocbunny (2)
•
30 Aug 11
I have always thought this, but then I got a half hour lecture on the evils of processed sugar from my doctor and how it is bad for acne. Mainly, large fluctuations in blood sugar levels causes acne, not the sugar itself.
I don't know if he is right, but as a sufferer of adult acne, there is no harm in trying to cut out sugar to see. If anything, i'll be healthier for it.
