There are claims that certain foods can trigger a number of skin problems including pimple breakouts. However, studies are still underway to find the actual connection between such foods and pimples.
Some research studies have indicated that diet and acne may be related, probably indirectly. Certain foods may trigger your body’s hormones or immune system to cause more acne breakouts.
The fact remains that poor nutrition makes you prone to acne, especially if you are a teenager. This is in reference to dermatologist Ava Shamban, MD, from Beverly Hills. Let’s have a look at some foods that trigger pimple breakouts and affect your skin in one way or another.
1. Sugary Foods
Among foods that trigger pimple breakouts, sugary foods top the list. Sugary foods including sweets and carbohydrates can trigger pimples formation. This is according to recent studies which suggest that sugars in such foods are to blame for those zits.
Relying on a diet that is high in sugar and simple carbohydrates can make you prone to acne. These include processed foods like chocolate, crackers, chips and cookies. In addition, starches such as white bread, potatoes and pasta fall under this category.
Shockingly, sweet drinks like soda can also make you prone to acne. Sugary foods raise your blood sugar which your body responds to by increasing production of insulin and hence more skin oil is produced.
2. Spicy Foods
Some people blame spicy foods, especially those containing red chilies and other hot spices, as one of the foods that trigger pimple breakouts.
According to a Jordanian study published in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2006, it was found out that acne patients demonstrated a close link between spices and skin breakouts.
While there is no enough evidence, dermatologists suggest that diet and acne aren’t prevalent enough to point spicy foods as the cause of acne. Instead, they blame other factors like cosmetics, genes and hormonal fluctuations as the main contributors of acne formation.
3. Milk
Just like cheese, milk is believed to one of the foods that trigger pimple breakouts. However, there is no enough evidence to demonstrate how milk or other dairy products trigger acne formation.
Milk is considered as a high glycemic food that triggers increased insulin production. Various studies have shown that acne sufferers who eliminate certain foods like milk from their diet are less likely to get acne breakouts. In addition, skipping such foods help to lessen severity and frequency of pimples.
4. Cheese
Cheese can be considered as one of the foods that cause acne. Studies have shown that there is a strong connection between cheese (or dairy) and acne breakouts.
A research from the book The Clear Skin Diet indicate that certain foods including cheese triggers insulin production, which helps cells to absorb sugar. This means that raising your blood sugar by consuming sugary foods causes more insulin circulation in your bloodstream.
In reference to a 2007 study published in the American Academy of Dermatologist, there is a strong connection between acne and dairy products. Researchers found out that people who consumed a high glycemic diet were more prone to acne breakouts than those who did not.
5. Nuts
Among foods that cause and fight acne and pimples, nuts are something that need more research. While nuts are constantly blamed as the cause of acne, it is still unclear about the connection.
Indeed scientific studies have not yet clearly shown the link between nuts and acne. Nuts come under the list of healthy food items, hence you probably need to think twice before completely eliminating them from your diet.
In reference to the studies from the American Academy of Dermatology, diet doesn’t directly contribute to acne breakouts. However, it has been observed that low glycemic diet, such as lean protein, vegetables and fresh fruits promote clean and healthy skin that is less prone to acne breakouts.
To take care of this dilemma, consumption of nuts in reasonable amounts may be prudent.
6. Peanut Butter
Although studies have failed to demonstrate the exact connection between diet and acne, some acne sufferers believe that they can fight acne by eliminating certain foods, such as peanut butter, from their diet.
Researchers from Melbourne University found out that many people link acne breakouts to poor diet. Some participants claimed that lack of some essential nutrients in the diet leads to hormonal imbalances which triggers acne breakouts.
7. Sushi Rice
Sushi rice is among certain foods that cause pimples and oily skin. In reference to a review published in the journal Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology, sushi rice is considered a high glycemic food that can trigger an increase in insulin production which causes acne.
Science has shown that high insulin levels encourage an inflammatory response which in turn triggers the release of acne-promoting hormones. For every ½ cup of cooked white rice, the glycemic index is 17, which is considered high.
8. Potato Chips
We all love to munch on those crunchy potato chips, but it certainly comes under the list of foods that cause pimples and oily skin. Potato chips are rich in carbohydrates which cause an increase in insulin production.
Same as crackers and break, potato chips is a high glycemic food that can cause pimples. Studies have shown that some foods can cause hormonal imbalances which make sebaceous glands to enlarge and produce more oils.
Excessive production of oils may block the pores and spur acne breakouts.
9. Refined Grains
Foods that contain refined and processed carbohydrates have been observed to be one of the foods that trigger pimple breakouts.
Bread, pasta, and white rice containing refined flour are some of the foods that may be contributing to increased risk of acne. A study concluded that those who consumed pastries and cakes on a daily basis were more susceptible by 20% to acne breakouts than others.
10. Fast Food
Fried items and fast food are a strict no-no if you want to avoid acne. Fast food items such as burgers, A study conducted on Chinese teengers concluded that consumption of a high-fat diet increased the risk of developing acne.
Experts say that it may trigger hormone levels that may cause an acne breakout. However, one cannot say that consumption of oily and fried items causes acne, but it certainly boosts its chances of occurring.
11. Chocolate
Chocolate worsens acne and there is enough research to prove it. A study found that consumption of chocolate containing dairy and excess sugar induced the immune system to trigger acne-forming bacteria. However, experts say that fat-free bacteria may cause a different effect.
12. Foods that are Rich in Omega-6
Fish that are rich in Omega-6 fats are said to result in increased inflammation and also can be included in foods that cause acne. Foods such as soy oil, corn, meat, and eggs that contain high levels of this fat, may trigger an acne breakout. Foods with high glycemic index may cause certain hormones to cause acne.
Conclusion
Although there is not enough evidence to clearly demonstrate the link between diet and acne, the foods you consume can define the appearance of your skin. Carbohydrates, dairy and other high glycemic foods can indirectly influence severity and frequency of acne breakouts.
Eliminating such foods from your diet can go a long way to help you cope with pimples. Healthy diet comprising fresh fruits, lean protein and vegetables can help fight acne breakouts. These prevent inflammation while nourishing the skin cells for a clearer and radiant look.
Note that the above list of foods that trigger pimple breakouts are not exhaustive in nature. Study your eating pattern and make a note of food items that you think are affecting your skin more than others.
Including fresh and seasonal fruits, leafy vegetables, orange- and red-colored vegetables may help in maintaining a healthy and glowy skin. Avoid overconsumption of caffeine and drink lots of water for keeping your skin hydrated.
These are some of the foods that cause pimples and oily skin, however, more research is required in this regard. It does not imply that you should totally avoid consumption of these items, in terms of avoiding acne.
For instance, dairy products are necessary for taking care of your calcium needs. Hence, make careful consideration while ruling out any food item.
Do consult your dermatologist and do not fall prey to any diet fads. It would be recommended to use credible products preferably containing naturally sourced ingredients.
Do a patch test before using any product on your face. Last but not the least, a healthy and nourishing diet will definitely contribute to a healthier and youthful skin.
Do you avoid certain foods that cause acne? If yes, let us know in the comments section below.
