Foods to fight off acne
What's the story
We spend thousands of rupees on skincare products and treatments to get radiant, flawless skin. But your diet plays an equally important role in keeping your skin healthy. Clogged pores and excess sebum production lead to acne, and you can combat these symptoms by simply tweaking your diet. Here are some foods you should be consuming to keep acne at bay.
Prevention
What to eat and what not to
Some studies suggest that breakouts can be reduced or prevented by consuming more omega-3 fatty acids, and by consuming fewer foods with a high glycemic index. Milk, refined sugar, and carbs are known to be bad for the skin. However, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that avoiding foods with high GIs may be more helpful than avoiding dairy products.
#1
Foods rich in carotenoids
Carotenoids are found in anti-inflammatory drugs made for acne treatment. Rich sources of carotenoids are carrots, spinach, kale, vegetable soup, mangoes, papaya, tomato, and sweet potatoes. Papaya has vitamins and minerals that can improve skin elasticity and control fine lines and wrinkles. Pumpkin, loaded with fruit enzymes, zinc, and alpha hydroxy acids, can restore pH balance. Zinc in it helps regulate oil production.
#2
Lemon
Fresh lemon juice is a natural astringent, which is why it tightens sagging skin and treats blemishes. Packed with vitamin C, lemon in your diet could work magic on your skin. Lemon also contains an antioxidant that is a very effective anti-aging agent. Scientific research has verified drinking lemon water every morning right after waking up can help combat pimples and acne.
#3
Legumes
Chickpeas, green peas, and other legumes have a low-glycemic index and are associated with more consistent blood sugar levels and fewer acne flare-ups. High glycemic foods like chocolate, white rice, white bread, and other carbs can spike up blood sugar. Research shows that it can lead to type 2 diabetes, heart attack, and stroke, and may also take a toll on your skin.
#4
Fishes like salmon and mackerel
Fishes like mackerel, salmon, and sardines are great sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These two fatty acids have been associated with combating inflammation, a common result of clogged pores. Omega-3 fatty acids can regulate the hormone testosterone which is known to cause breakouts. It protects your skin against sun damage, reduces your risk for developing skin cancer, and also reduces brown spots.
#5
Nuts
Eating nuts like almonds, and walnuts protect cells from damage and infections. Limited studies have shown that antioxidants will clear up acne, but they are also good for your body in other ways. It is safe to add them to your diet. Most nuts contain selenium, vitamin E, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium and iron, which are all essential for healthy skin.