The relationship between food and acne is a controversial one. Although some may believe that acne is unrelated to food a lot of people including doctors, scientists and researchers believe otherwise. So the next question is what are these foods that worsen or promote acne and why do they do so. Let us help you figure this out with respect to each food. 

Chocolate 

There are 3 reasons which are given for chocolate’s acne exacerbating effects. Firstly, chocolate is mostly consumed in form of chocolate bars which have high sugar and fat content. This sugar and fat gets deposited as abdominal fat which influences the hormonal balance and raises testosterone a major acne culprit. This also creates insulin resistance in the body another pro- acne effect. Lastly, some research has found that chocolate has pro-inflammatory effects of the skin, which contribute to inflammatory acne.

Bakery products and rice (bread, cakes, pastries)

Foods with a high glycemic index contribute significantly to acne outbreaks. High-sugar diets produce an increase in insulin levels in the body. This acute insulin overload causes your follicles and pores to fill up with sebum, resulting in clogged pores. These clogged pores are a fertile ground for propionibacterium acne (the acne causing bacteria). 

Chicken 

Most of the chicken available in our markets is farm grown. Which is given hormones for rapid growth. These hormones disturb our hormonal balance when consumed. This hormonal disturbance shows up as acne on the surface.

Milk 

Even after intake, bovine hormones in milk remain bioavailable, thus  contributing to acne outbreaks. Some may consider skim milk as an option, but the milk proteins added to make it taste less watery, such as whey and casein, have been linked to inflammation, that worsens things further. A good alternative would be opting for non dairy alternatives such as oat milk or almond milk.

Fast food 

Fast food is also composed of foods with high glycemic index. This means that when these foods are broken down they raise the blood sugar very rapidly. It is a natural body mechanism that when insulin spikes, skin produces more oil and sebum. This excess oil then serves as food for propionibacterium acne (the acne causing bacteria). And there you go a huge pimple with kind regards from your favorite fast food. 

Ready to discover your food sensitivities? Order your Skintolerance test today!