Does Diet Really Affect Acne?
Contrary to prior beliefs that genetic predisposition was the main factor in the appearance of acne, studies are now indicating that there is a connection between acne and certain diets. A diet that is high in saturated fats results in an increase of insulin levels and has been linked to "IGF-1", a hormone that is similar to insulin. One particular study entitled "Diet and acne: a review of the evidence" indicates that milk consumption increases IGF-1 production. To understand whether or not diet plays a role, there have been studies conducted on non-westernized populations who have a natural diet of vegetables, fruit, fish.
Is there a Link between Western Diets and Acne?
Population studies suggest that acne is more prevalent in industrialized populations than in rural societies where the consumption of dairy products, coffee, alcohol, cereals, oils, sugar, and salt was at a minimum. Other food that may contribute to acne includes nuts, chocolate, cakes, oily and fried food.
"Acne vulgaris: a disease of Western civilization" is an observational study that evaluated two isolated non-westernized populations who have a lack of acne: the Kitavan Islanders of Papua New Guinea and the Ache hunter-gatherers of Paraguay. Researchers speculate that the low-fat content of their diet results in a low-glycemic index which could be the reason for the absence of acne.
Is it the fat content or the hormones?
Not all fats have the same affect on our skin. There have been several studies linking the consumption of dairy products with acne. But the interesting finding is that low fat and skimmed milk was associated with acne, which suggests that the fat content of milk is not the cause. The link lies elsewhere.
The diets of 47,000 nurses were studied and the authors investigated whether the hormones found in milk products were associated with acne during their teenage years. This study also found that severe acne may not be a result of the high fat content of their diet. Instead, the contributing factor was the change in IGF-1 levels. The authors hypothesized that it was the hormones in milk products and not the fat that were responsible for the acne.
Can there be a healthy balance?
It is obvious that nutrition plays a significant role. The same studies that link dairy consumption to the prevalence of acne have also found that other foods can lessen the conditions that lead to sever acne. High-fiber, low fat diets tend to decrease the concentrations of hormones associated with acne which means that it is possible to maintain a balance IGF-1 levels as long as your diet contains a variety of healthy, natural foods. We can learn from the populations that were studied: the islanders who mainly ate root vegetables, fruit, fish, and coconut did not have acne. The good news, at least for chocolate lovers, is that not all "comfort foods" are linked to acne. The studies have not made any connections between acne and soda, pizza, fries or chocolate.
What can you do if the pimples are already there?
There are acne remedies that allow you to spot treat the condition, depending on the cause. Excessively oily skin is a result of hyperactive sebum (oil) glands. When too much oil reaches the surface of the skin, bacteria can easily get trapped in the pores causing congestion, pimples and blackheads. If you have oily skin, acne treatments should include nor-pore clogging ingredients like aloe vera and jojoba. It is also very important to keep the pores clean. Activated charcoal and antibacterial organic extracts can dissolve excess oil and prevent pimples without over drying the skin. And finally, always use an alcohol free astringent to balance the skin's pH level. Products with organic black willowbark and naturally occurring salicylic acid can fight active breakouts and discourage new pimples from forming.
If you have pimples and are looking for natural acne treatments, then the Glowshine Collection for acne prone skin is the most effective way to treat and prevent acne, hyperpigmentation and Excessive Oiliness. Instead of working against nature, Glowshine helps regulate the over production of oil by providing the ideal balance of vital moisture and nutrients. The result is nourished skin that glows with health.
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