Oftentimes, our external skin problems may stem from something that we ate or drank. We may not realise it right away, but our body may be allergic to something, or our skin might not agree to something. Or simply, some foods are just generally known to cause skin problems like inflammation and redness. So it is of utmost importance to know these foods. Therefore we have curated a list of what foods to eat and avoid when it comes to skin inflammation.

What Foods Cause Skin Inflammation?

1. Sugars

If there would be an awards ceremony to commemorate the most unhealthy food, sugar would bag the trophy. That’s how much harm it can cause. As far as the skin is concerned, sugar, sugary snacks, processed white sugar-rich foods and desserts should be on the avoid list. They spike the blood sugar in our body, leading to inflammation (not only in the skin but others parts of the body too). For patients of skin disorders like rosacea, psoriasis, eczema etc, sugar triggers even serious symptoms.

2. Meat (Overcooked/ Barbecued)

When meat is cooked at very high temperatures or overcooked, the advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in it increase. AGEs are known to make the skin less elastic and more prone to signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. Some research also says that meat cooked at high temperatures can also prove to become carcinogenic. It is therefore recommended that you swap your red meats for leaner, grass-fed ones. Also, try and limit those barbecues in summer.

3. Dairy

Milk is not meant to be digested by the adult human system. And yet humans have taught their bodies to digest dairy and dairy products. That is why you see so many people around lactose intolerant, wherein if they eat dairy or related products, they end up having bowel syndromes and skin problems like inflammation, acne, dry skin, chapped lips, rashes and in serious cases — even breathing problems. It is hence recommended that you cut down on dairy intake, or replace it with non-dairy variants like almond or soy.

4. Refined Wheat/Flour Products

White food products are believed to be detrimental to health and skin — be it white pasta or white bread. In a nutshell, anything made from refined wheat flour (due to its high GI value) should be replaced with whole wheat or multigrain. White flour is used in pies, pastries, and many other recipes, so try and avoid those too. They are not your skin’s best friends, especially if you are already suffering from skin problems like acne.

5. Trans Fat

Anything that contains trans fats can trigger your skin. Any kind of cooking oil like cotton seed oil, soy oil, vegetable oil etc can cause skin inflammation. Home and restaurant cooking may not always use these oils. But packaged and preserved food do. So be wary of those frozen or to-heat packs you pick up at the grocery store.

What Foods Soothe Skin Inflammation?

1. Ginger

Ginger is an amazing underground shoot that has loads of amazing skin benefits. It is also too good for health and therefore found extensively in Thai, Chinese and Indian cooking. Ginger helps control blood sugar levels and reduce skin inflammation. So if you find your skin breaking out or getting inflamed, then start taking a nice cup of ginger tea.

2. Berries

Berries (strawberries, blueberries, cranberries etc) are very high in antioxidants. They can even reverse any free radical oxidative damage that has caused skin inflammation or signs of premature aging. Try and go for organic fruits though, as pesticides sprinkled on berries are counterproductive. They are also difficult to wash away completely from the tiny fruits.

3. Cruciferous Veggies

Any vegetable that has a cross-like leaf or flower is usually added to the cruciferous family. These veggies contain a high dose of antioxidants and vitamins that help rid the skin and body of damaging/harmful substances. In a way, they are detoxifying, thereby decreasing inflammation. What veggies are crucifiers? Broccoli, kale, carrot, radish, cabbage, cauliflower, bok choy etc.

4. Sweet Potatoes

This amazing low-fat vegetable actually may just heal your skin inflammation. It is so rich in Vitamin B6 and C, and also supplies fibre, complex carbs and beta-carotene to your system in abundance. If you are suffering from recurring skin inflammation, then along with your dermatologist-prescribed medication, you can also add sweet potatoes to your diet.

5. Salmon

Not just any salmon, the Wild Alaskan Salmon is the fish for anti-inflammation. It is very rich in Omega 3s and astaxanthin. A serving of this fish from time to time may help you with your skin inflammation problems.

We hope this little curation of skin inflammation foods and anti-inflammatory foods helps you understand your diet and change it for the better. Take care of what you eat, listen to your skin, and for any skincare treatments like facials, permanent makeup etc visit Savarnas Beauty Spa.