Though clinical studies relate that food and acne do not have a significant correlation, more and more dermatologists are beginning to recognize that the cleaner diet you have, the clearer your skin will be. Along with drinking plenty of water, diets high in fruits and vegetables provide your body with the vitamins that are crucial in the development of an acne-free face. On the other hand, foods high in fat and sugar can mess with your complexion. Cut the following items out of your diet to keep zits at bay.
1. Sugar
White sugar has inflammatory properties that can aggravate your skin. “In terms of food, things high in glycemic load [foods that raise blood sugar quickly] trigger acne more than anything else,” says Marina Peredo, M.D., a dermatologist in Long Island, NY.
2. Dairy
Hormones that are found in dairy products can stimulate the sebum glands in your face, making them produce more oil and clog your pores. Many people find that when they cut dairy from their diets their skin clears up dramatically.
3. Fast food
The “McDonald’s face” that occurs when people work at fast food restaurants doesn’t have to do with grease; it has to do with eating processed foods made from white flour and potatoes. The key to great skin is avoiding as many processed foods as possible.
4. Peanut butter
Peanut butter that contains hydrogenated oil and added sugar may cause inflammation and fuel breakouts
5. Whey protein
“When a guy is breaking out, I always ask him what supplements he’s taking and if he’s trying to bulk up,” says Peredo. “Whey protein can cause acne.” If you’re breaking out from whey and need an alternative, try egg-white or hemp protein powder instead.
6. Spicy food
Spicy food triggers sweat glands, which can make your face oily and further aggravate the skin. The way to prevent a breakout when you eat spicy food could be to wash your face immediately after.
1. Sugar
White sugar has inflammatory properties that can aggravate your skin. “In terms of food, things high in glycemic load [foods that raise blood sugar quickly] trigger acne more than anything else,” says Marina Peredo, M.D., a dermatologist in Long Island, NY.
2. Dairy
Hormones that are found in dairy products can stimulate the sebum glands in your face, making them produce more oil and clog your pores. Many people find that when they cut dairy from their diets their skin clears up dramatically.
3. Fast food
The “McDonald’s face” that occurs when people work at fast food restaurants doesn’t have to do with grease; it has to do with eating processed foods made from white flour and potatoes. The key to great skin is avoiding as many processed foods as possible.
4. Peanut butter
Peanut butter that contains hydrogenated oil and added sugar may cause inflammation and fuel breakouts
5. Whey protein
“When a guy is breaking out, I always ask him what supplements he’s taking and if he’s trying to bulk up,” says Peredo. “Whey protein can cause acne.” If you’re breaking out from whey and need an alternative, try egg-white or hemp protein powder instead.
6. Spicy food
Spicy food triggers sweat glands, which can make your face oily and further aggravate the skin. The way to prevent a breakout when you eat spicy food could be to wash your face immediately after.