Most of us can relate to the annoyance and embarrassment acne can cause. About 80 percent of people will experience occasional breakouts from their teens until they reach their 30s. Even after then, many of us will have to deal with the random pimple or blemish.
You may be surprised at some of the foods that may cause breakouts, such as:
- Milk. You’ve heard for years that it “does a body good,” but there appears to be a relationship between milk consumption and breakouts.
- Raisins, dates, and prunes. These fruits are packed with fiber, but they’re all high on the glycemic index (GI), a system that ranks foods on how quickly your body converts them to sugar. Some studies suggest that eating foods that are high on the GI may make acne worse.
- Pasta. We think of pasta as a healthy choice over more fat-laden meals, but white pasta is high on the GI and may trigger a breakout.
If acne is an issue, consider avoiding the foods above. And be sure to consume foods that are good for you and your skin, such as the following:
- Vegetables. A diet high in fiber may help your skin stay clear, and veggies like broccoli, brussels sprouts, and carrots all contain plenty of fiber. They’re also low on the GI, so include them in your regular diet.
- Seafood. Seafood contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked with having less acne.
- Walnuts. Walnuts are another source of omega-3 fatty acids.
If you’re concerned about acne, take a closer look at your diet. A few small changes may result in clearer skin.
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