Debunking Common Myths: Diet and Acne Connection

Before discussing the myths let’s see an introduction to Acne 

Acne vulgaris

It is a chronic inflammatory disease involving a pilosebaceous unit. 

Pathogenesis:

1. Androgens activate the sebaceous gland leading to increased sebum production.
2. Hyperkeratinization of the infundibulum due to block in the passage of sebum.
3. Presence of cutibacterium acnes.
4. Inflammation. 

Grades:

1. Comedones.
2. Predominant papular lesion.
3. Predominant pustular lesion.
4. Nodulocystic Acne with scars.

Acne is the most common condition and affects 3 in every 5 individuals. However, even though it is not a life-threatening condition People are concerned about it a lot due to physical appearance. 

If you are struggling with acne and its impact on your self-esteem, don’t hesitate to reach out to an acne specialist in Bangalore. They will provide expert guidance and support to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin 

Risk factors for acne:

• Climate: hot and humid climate 
• Emotional stress and psychological factors
• Facial cosmetics
• Genetic predisposition 
• Premenstrual flare
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Let us Debunk common myths relating to diet and Acne.

MYTH 1: Fried and oily foods trigger acne 

FACT: 

• Most people come to the easy conclusion of fried and oily foods cause acne because acne is caused due to overproduction in the sebaceous glands.

• But the fact is there is no research so far to prove a connection between greasy food and acne.
• A routine diet including a lot of fried and greasy foods can cause inflammation. Having greasy foods now and then in your diet is not a problem. Eating oily and greasy foods and then skimming your face, the oil in the food may clog your pores and cause acne. Have a habit of washing your hands before touching your face.

MYTH 2: Chocolate causes Acne

FACT: 

• Chocolate contains milk and sugar, which may contribute to inflammatory reactions in some people, but it’s difficult to rule out that chocolate is the main cause of acne.

• Research reveals that people with higher levels of sugar and carbohydrates in their diet are more susceptible to acne. People who are more addicted to chocolates and suffering from acne can switch to chocolates containing less added sugar content.

MYTH 3: Gluten-free diet 

FACT: 

• There is a very strong myth that going gluten-free can reduce acne and give a clear skin.

• Following a gluten-free diet is way harder, this may lead to stressful conditions, which in turn causes acne along with obsession over food and causes the condition anorexia nervosa.
• A gluten-free diet will lead to an imbalanced diet, which in turn causes nutrient deficiencies, that could make acne worse.

MYTH 4: Dairy products causing acne.

FACT: 

• Various analyses are going on between dairy consumption and acne.
• Particular types of dairy products tend to inflate insulin secretion and IGF1 levels, which ultimately leads to increased androgen levels and the production of sebum. If u feel the way that your acne gets worse after consuming dairy products consult your doctor and modify your diet.

MYTH 5: Lemon juice and toothpaste

FACT: 

• Even though lemon has an antibacterial effect, the application of lemon and toothpaste can damage the skin and leave scars.

• People get suffered from acne at different stages of their lives. Teenagers are the most affected due to hormonal changes. Much research has backed up that diet not being a major cause of acne.
• There are feasible connections between acne and chocolate, acne and dairy products, and greasy food, and acne.
• Focus A balanced diet which contains all essential nutrients and your go-to food which can provide healthy skin, rather than concentrating on a single food variety. 
• The glycemic index is defined as a measure of how faster or slower your food spikes your blood glucose level.
• Consuming foods with a high glycemic index such as chocolates, ice creams, soda, etc. can cause drastic changes in your blood sugar level and can cause acne.
• Every person gets affected in one way or the other by acne, so it’s always better to consult a dermatologist and use products for managing acne. 

Things to follow to control acne: 

• Consuming green tea can reduce acne worsening. Green tea which is a strong antioxidant has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and reduces acne.
• Avoid using excessive products.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol regularly lead to stressful conditions that can aggravate acne. It’s important to cease smoking and consuming alcohol not only for acne conditions but for your overall health too.
• Lack of sleep can worsen acne conditions.
• Skin care is essential to control acne. Consult with a dermatologist for a proper skincare routine.
• Use makeup products that are oil-free and water-based. Select products that are not comedogenic.

It takes weeks to a month to notice changes until following the skincare routine as prescribed by the doctors is mandatory, Emotional support is important.

To conclude, Doctors at Dr. Health Clinic are super responsive and always stand the Patients physically and psychologically and make them stand on their feet to fight this disease. You should schedule a consultation with the best dermatologist in Bangalore. If you have any concerns or uncertainties about hair loss.