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What Is Hormonal Acne and How Is It Linked to Diet?
Hormonal acne is acne caused by fluctuations in hormones, usually in the form of an increase in androgens (male hormones). Hormonal acne usually appears on the jawline, chin, and upper neck, and it can be persistent, cystic, and inflamed.
What you eat matters when it comes to controlling hormones and treating acne. A healthy diet featuring a variety of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids can help reduce symptoms of hormonal acne. Eating foods that are high in anti-inflammatory properties and focusing on a nutrient-dense diet may also help reduce the symptoms.
Foods to Eat For Hormonal Acne Treatment
Eating healthy, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce the symptoms associated with hormonal acne.
- Fruits: Include plenty of fresh, organic fruits such as apples, strawberries, oranges, lemons, and blueberries into your diet for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vegetables: Vegetables such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and asparagus are loaded with vital nutrients that can help fight off hormonal acne.
- Lean proteins: Eating foods such as fish, chicken, eggs, and legumes can help reduce inflammation while providing essential nutrients your body needs.
- Healthy fats: Healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and seeds can help reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and improve skin health.
Foods to Avoid for Hormonal Acne Treatment
It is important to avoid certain foods that may trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms of hormonal acne.
- Refined carbohydrates: Refined carbs such as white bread, pastries, and chips can cause an overproduction of insulin, leading to an increase in androgens and an increase in acne.
- Processed foods and sugars: Processed foods and added sugars can cause inflammation and hormone imbalances, making it harder for the body to heal hormonal acne.
- Dairy: Many people experience an increase in acne from dairy products as they can be hormone- and antibiotic-laden, and also contain sugar.
- Peanut butter: Peanut butter contains lectins, which can cause inflammation and exacerbate symptoms of hormonal acne.
Health Benefits of Eating For Hormonal Acne
Eating for hormonal acne can have many health benefits beyond just reducing symptoms. Eating a balanced diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids will help improve skin health and also promote overall wellbeing.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help improve mental clarity and reduce stress, while also boosting energy and improving digestion. A healthy diet will not only help reduce the symptoms of hormonal acne, but also improve overall health.
Conclusion
Hormonal acne can be difficult to manage and many people struggle with its symptoms. However, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and make your skin look and feel healthier. Eating a balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts. It is also important to avoid certain foods such as refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and dairy to prevent an increase in acne. Eating for hormonal acne can have many benefits for your skin and overall wellbeing.
