When it comes to dietary triggers for acne, the list of supposed villains is long. While absolute proof isn't currently reproducible, one expert says there are several foods that have shown a connection. Participate in this forum.
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References:
1. Coyner T, Purath J. Dietary Influences on Acne Vulgaris: Myth or Fact? J Dermatol Nurses Assoc. 2018;10(1):S18âS22.2. Cengiz FP, Cevirgen cemil B, Emiroglu N, Gulsel bahali A, Onsun N. Acne located on the trunk, whey protein supplementation: Is there any association?. Health Promot Perspect. 2017;7(2):106-108.
Findings for chocolate have been mixed; studies are small with significant limitations; food diaries can be inaccurate; it's hard to find research funding. In their report, Coyner et el. note, populations with low-GI diets have no incidence of acne. Genetic predisposition may contribute but researchers believe a low-GI diet is a factor.
Multiple studies have linked milk consumption to acne. One theory is that milk hormones trigger hormone activity, inflammation and bacteria production, Coyner says. Oddly, some research has pointed specifically at the nonfat variety as an acne booster. While milk has health benefits, she says, she asks adolescents about how much they drink.
Omega-6 fatty acids, such as those found in corn, safflower, cottonseed, and soybean oils, could increase potential for acne. As Coyner and her colleague highlight in their report, these fats "are noted to induce more inflammatory mediators." In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids could be beneficial in acne, but some recent studies have been small and conflicting.
One recent study reported that acne on the trunk developed in six adolescent male patients after they began using whey protein supplements to improve muscle growth. Researchers noted that the acne could also be related to friction and perspiration.2
"Most dermatologists are aware that diet and nutrition influence acne, but the role that they play is still being figured out," agrees Andrea L. Zaenglein, M.D., of Penn State/Hershey Medical Center. "Other than general good nutritional advice, specific food eliminations cannot be recommend based on available data." For now, Coyner suggests, keep food in mind during dermatologic patient visits.
