Acne Diet to Get Rid of Pimples: Supplements to Manage Acne Cysts Naturally

Acne or Pimples is the most common skin disorder, which can be treated promptly with an appropriate diet. As per a study conducted in Australia's Melbourne University Hospital, a solid correlation between diet and pimples or acne has been established. The study was conducted over a period of two years and it was found that diet affects insulin and glucose metabolism which in turn has a significant impact on the eruption of acne on the skin. The study reiterates the role of diet in effective treatment and management of acne, pimples and other skin conditions.

 

What are Pimples?: Skin Pimples and Acne

The skin comprises of sebaceous glands which produce sebum, which is the natural oil meant to keep the skin moist and healthy. However, in certain individuals, these sebaceous glands either get obstructed, infected or produce too much sebum which in turn results in the formation of acne and pimples on the skin. Based on the severity of the condition and the manifestation of clinical symptoms, acne can be categorized into blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, nodules (i.e. tender collections of pus that discharge to the surface of the skin), and cysts (i.e. deep nodules that fail to discharge their contents to the surface).

Acne Vulgaris can be treated with
a Healthy Diet

 

Pimples or acne are lesions occur predominantly on the face, and to a lesser extent on the shoulders, chest and back. These areas are more prone to the disorder, because they have lots of sebaceous glands that produce sebum.

What Causes Acne & Pimples? Acne Vulugaris and Pimple Scars

Though the actual cause for acne is the obstruction or infection of the sebaceous glands, there are a host of factors that may contribute towards the formation of acne vulgaris and acne scars on the skin, 

• Puberty is the commonest reason for a flare up. Acne occurs predominantly due to increased levels of the testosterone hormone, in both sexes, at puberty. Testosterone causes the sebaceous glands to enlarge and secrete larger quantities of sebum.
• Recently diet has been considered to contribute towards formation of acne. As per the study conducted in Australia, foods that are high in glycemic index tend to result in fluctuation in the levels of insulin, which in associated with an acne flare up.
• Increased production of keratin may also increase the risk of blockage of pores, which in turn may result in bacterial growth and formation of acne vulgaris

Based on the nature and severity of the condition, acne or pimples can be classified into two categories,

•  Acne Vulgaris: This is the superficial form of the skin disorder, and is manifested as blackheads, whiteheads and inflammation.
• Acne Conglobata: This is a deep form of the disorder, which causes cyst formation and extensive scarring.

Acne Diet: Getting Rid of Pimple Scars

 

Here are some simple dietary suggestions that can help in the management of acne and pimple and also help in treatment of the most severe forms of pimple scars on the skin,  

• Refined carbohydrates such as white flour and white sugar need to be eliminated entirely from the diet. Also avoid foods that are rich in Trans fats, which include margarine, cookies, biscuits, cakes.
• Fried and greasy foods should not be consumed at all. These foods hamper the normal metabolism in the body and increase the risk of pimple and acne scars.
• The consumption of milk and its products should be kept to a minimum. Recent studies have however shown that skimmed milk is associated with higher risk of acne flare up compared to whole milk.
• Step up the intake of water to 3 - 3 and a ½ liters per day. In addition, take lots of soups, coconut water, lime water, and fresh juices. Water helps to flush the entire system and throw out the toxins, and free from pimples and acne. A lemon detox diet is considered beneficial in the management of acne and pimples.



Legumes are considered to
be beneficial for Pimple Scars

• A diet high in proteins with moderate level of carbohydrates is considered to decrease the production of sebum and thereby reduces the risk of acne or pimples. Foods like legumes, whole grains, pasta, brown rice, oatmeal, etc are high in proteins and low in carbohydrates.
• Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet which is loaded with antioxidants and other vital nutrients and vitamins essential for a healthy skin.

Managing Acne Cysts Naturally: Supplements to Treat Pimples Naturally

 

There are certain supplements and nutrients that are considered beneficial in reducing the occurrence of acne and prevent pimple scars on the skin,

• Zinc is a vitally important nutrient in the management of acne. A deficiency of zinc is associated with an increased effect of the testosterone hormone. A raised level of testosterone, increases sebum production which causes a flare up. Ensure that your diet has a healthy supplementation of zinc rich foods. Almonds, pistachios, cashew nuts, legumes, and whole grains are excellent sources of the mineral. Have a fistful of nuts daily, and make sure your meals comprise of whole grains (nor refined and denatured grains) and legumes.
• Another wonder nutrient for acne treatment is vitamin E. Vitamin E is a potent anti-oxidant, and speeds up the healing process. It prevents damage due to free radicals by inhibiting lipid peroxide formation. Step up your intake of almonds and flax seeds. These 2 foods are enriched with the vitamin. Vitamin E supplements are also advocated, in subjects who have a severe deficiency. They should gradually move on to consuming foods which are rich in the vitamin, for natural foods are preferred to artificial supplements.