Acne and Food: Fact or Fiction?

There’s been a lot of talk lately about the effects of food on acne. While some stress that no foods have been proven to cause acne, others disagree. The lack of certain foods and vitamins in the diet may be associated with the worsening of acne. Acne is a disorder of increased oil production (sebum) in the hair follicle unit, under hormonal influence. Inflammation plays a key role in creating the “whiteheads” and pimples. Milk contains many hormones that may influence sebum production, so a high milk diet may be unadvisable. The Vitamin B group may be lacking in many Americans’ diets. Vitamin B3 has been shown to decrease inflammation. Vitamin B5 deficiency may have and influence on the hormones that trigger the development of acne. Vitamin B5 is commonly found in foods such as eggs, liver, pork, beef, chicken, pork, milk, potatoes, brewer’s yeast, whole wheat, peas, beans and other fresh vegetables. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant and reduces oil production. Many of the most effective acne treatments, such as accutane and topical retinoids, are vitamin A derivatives. However, it is important not to consume more than the recommended daily allowance, as an excess of vitamin A can be detrimental to one’s heath, especially in pregnant women. Vitamin A is in beets, carrots, spinach, apricots, mangoes, raspberries and oranges. Vitamin C has been found to enhance the action of vitamin A and is also essential for your immune system and collagen production. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, strawberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, cabbage, and peas are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, normalizes sebum levels, decreases inflammation, decreases androgens (high levels of which are associated with acne production), and also regulates Vitamin A levels within the body. Sources of Vitamin E include almonds, corn, eggs and leafy green vegetables. Lack of zinc, found in oysters, beans, red meat, and poultry, may play a role in the development of acne. Zinc helps regulate oil glands, is an antioxidant, and helps wound healing. Chromium reduces rates of skin infection, may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve acne. Chromium is typically found in molasses and brewer’s yeast. Selenium is an antioxidant and may be related to the prevention of cancer. In combination with vitamins A and E, selenium may help improve acne. Plant foods, tuna, and cod provide selenium in our diets. Not everyone who has acne (especially teens) will seek out and eat the variety of foods required to add all of these vitamins and minerals so a daily multivitamin and a generally healthy diet can help restore vitamin levels. Of course, Dr. Bilu Martin and Dr. Mandy have many additional tools available to improve acne that has not responded to diet or home remedies. In the end, controversy over the influence of diet and supplements still exists, but good dietary habits won’t hurt! Visit us at SBD.