Staff Writer: Deileta Kamhunga
Delve into the benefits of anti-inflammatory foods, common food triggers, and the importance of seeking professional guidance. Empower yourself with the knowledge to create a personalized nutrition plan that nurtures your skin from the inside out, and take control of your atopic dermatitis symptoms.
- A balanced, nutritious diet is crucial for overall health, including skin health, and can help manage atopic dermatitis symptoms.
- Including anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3 rich sources and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin.
- Identifying and avoiding common food triggers, like dairy, eggs, gluten, and processed foods, can help prevent or reduce atopic dermatitis flare-ups.
If you’re dealing with atopic dermatitis, you know that it can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride. One day your skin feels great, and the next, you’re battling an itchy flare-up. But did you know that what you eat can play a significant role in managing your skin’s condition?
That’s right – certain foods may trigger or worsen symptoms, while others can help promote skin health [1]. So, let’s talk about the role of nutrition in managing atopic dermatitis and which foods you should include or avoid.
Fueling Your Body for Skin Health
Before anything else, it’s important to recognize that a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is key to supporting overall well-being, and that certainly applies to your skin, too. By incorporating a wide array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals, you’re supplying your body with the crucial nutrients it needs to strengthen your skin’s natural defenses.
Including Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Tackling atopic dermatitis means focusing on reducing inflammation, and your diet can be a powerful ally in this fight [2]. For example, load up on anti-inflammatory omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish (think salmon, mackerel, and sardines), walnuts, and flaxseeds to help keep inflammation in check. Berries, leafy greens, and bell peppers are packed with antioxidants that can also help your body battle inflammation.
Steering Clear of Common Triggers
While everybody is unique and can react differently to different foods, there are some common food triggers that you may want to avoid if you have atopic dermatitis [3]. These can include:
- Dairy products, like cow’s milk, cheese, and yogurt, which can cause inflammation for some people.
- Eggs, which are a common allergen and can trigger skin reactions.
- Gluten, found in wheat, barley, and rye, can also cause inflammation and skin irritation for some individuals.
- Highly processed foods, as they often contain additives and preservatives that can be irritating to the skin.
To get a better handle on your skin’s reactions, tune in to how your body responds to various foods. Keeping a food diary is a great way to spot patterns and pinpoint any potential triggers, making it easier to manage your atopic dermatitis.
Getting Professional Help
Reach out to a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for guidance. They’re experts in crafting personalized nutrition plans tailored to your specific needs, helping you manage your symptoms more effectively and making your atopic dermatitis journey a whole lot smoother.
By understanding the role of nutrition in managing atopic dermatitis and incorporating the right foods into your diet, you can take control of your skin’s health.
Sources:
- Chang, A., Robison, R., Cai, M., & Singh, A. M. (2016). Natural History of Food-Triggered Atopic Dermatitis and Development of Immediate Reactions in Children. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract, 4(2), 229-236.e221. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaip.2015.08.006
- Hewett, L. (2021). Understanding inflammation’s role in atopic dermatitis. National Eczema Association. https://nationaleczema.org/blog/inflammation-atopic/
- Nutrition for Eczema: Atopic Dermatitis | American Nutrition Association. (n.d.). https://theana.org/node/657
