Acne & Diet

Diet habits matter
Adopting a Mediterranean-style diet rich in nuts, whole grains, fruits, & vegetables shows the most promise in treating acne. Studies have shown that a high intake of fish, fruits, & vegetables can reduce acne. However, it's important to note that fruit juice does not offer the same benefits.

Dairy Consumption
The relationship between dairy & acne is intricate. Research suggests that individuals who consume dairy less frequently, such as fewer than daily servings (around 6 servings/week), may experience less severe acne compared to daily consumers. There might also be a benefit in opting for whole-fat dairy products, but it's essential to monitor portion sizes to avoid excess calorie intake. Recent studies on dairy consumption, considering caloric intake, indicate that whole-fat dairy may be advantageous only if it doesn't lead to exceeding recommended caloric intake levels. A meta-anaylsis of observational studies in 2019 showed a higher occurrence of acne with consumption of dairy, total milk, whole milk, low-fat & skim milk consumption. However, no significant association between yogurt/cheese & acne development was observed.

Glycemic Load
Individuals with acne tend to consume higher levels of total carbohydrates, a greater proportion of calories from carbohydrates, & a higher glycemic load (glycemic index + portion size) compared to those without acne. Implementing a low-glycemic-load diet, focusing on increased protein intake & incorporating lower glycemic index carbohydrates like whole grains & fruits, has demonstrated positive effects on acne management.