Inflammatory skin conditions and nutrition

Inflammatory skin conditions include acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, and follicular hyperkeratosis. These recommendations can help manage and alleviate symptoms for various inflammatory skin conditions.

• Acne
  Contributing factors for acne include hormonal imbalances, diet, medication, environmental pollution, climate, and lifestyle. Studies show that high glycemic index/load foods, dairy, fatty foods, and chocolate can worsen acne, while fruits, vegetables, and unsaturated fats improve it. Omega-3s (2,000 mg EPA and DHA) and omega-6 (borage oil) can reduce acne symptoms. Daily intake of sugary beverages (≥7 times per week) increases moderate to severe acne risk, particularly with daily sugar intake exceeding 100g.

• Rosacea
  Rosacea, a common inflammatory skin disorder, is triggered by hot beverages (>60°C), alcohol, spicy foods, cinnamon, and histamine-rich foods. There is a gut-skin link in rosacea; studies show associations with celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and bacterial overgrowth.

• Psoriasis
  Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory condition, can be worsened by the Western diet. The Mediterranean diet has shown benefits for inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis, due to its high intake of olive oil, fruits, and vegetables.

• Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
  Atopic dermatitis often affects infants and children and can be linked to diet, allergies, and obesity. Omega-3 supplements (2-4 g DHA/EPA) and gamma-linolenic acid (500 mg) may alleviate symptoms.

• Neurodermatitis
  Neurodermatitis, or lichen simplex chronicus, is associated with anxiety, skin scratching, and diabetes. Flavonoid-rich foods (spinach, apples, cherries) and Omega-3s (1-3 g daily) can reduce inflammation. Probiotics help improve gut health, benefiting skin conditions.

• Seborrheic Dermatitis
  This condition causes itchy, red patches and is influenced by diet, stress, and yeast overgrowth. A fruit-rich diet, Omega-3 supplements (1-2 g daily), and biotin (minimum 500 mcg) are recommended.

• Follicular Hyperkeratosis
  This condition, often related to vitamin deficiencies, can improve with vitamin A, C, E, and essential fatty acids (like flax or safflower oil).