August 30, 2019
Why Allergens Directly Affect Your Skin
Why Allergens Directly Affect Your Skin
Maria Eugênia Caminha
Food allergies are on the rise, according to recent studies worldwide. Interestingly adults have been developing allergies at a much faster rate than children. Experts are investigating further into the data, but links to our Western industrialised diets and environmental factors have already been made. Our skin, which is also a direct reflection of our lifestyle and dietary choices, plays a big role when it comes to diagnosis.
BREAKING OUT AT AN OLDER AGE? BE ALERT.
When we talk about food allergies, most people think of the most common triggers: nuts, peanuts, sesame, gluten and dairy. Two of those – all gluten components and dairy – are known for having some kind of connection to skin issues, from eczema to breakouts. You should always be alert to how your skin reacts to your diet, mainly because it is quite common for adults to chase a diagnosis only after a persistent battle against their own skin has already been settled.
HOW ALLERGENS ACTUALLY AFFECT THE SKIN?
When it comes to dairy, the answer is quite simple: cow’s milk is specially designed to stimulate growth and hormones in calves. When we consume it, we ingest whey and casein. These proteins end up releasing a hormone called IGF-1, very similar to insulin, which is known for causing breakouts. Our endocrine system, to put it simply, ends up getting a hormone overload and promoting the infamous adult hormonal acne. Developing unusual acne in your chin and neck areas, for example, is a big sign that you might be hormonally imbalanced.
With gluten and other grains, such as barley, rye and oats; the speculation grows bigger as less studies indicate a connection. It is known, though, that a low-glycemic diet is highly beneficial for those who struggle with acne. By having a gluten-free diet, one will most likely cut out very highly-processed foods packed with sugar – again, another component commonly linked to breakouts.
CHANGING YOUR FOOD.
If you are way past your teenage years and your skin consistently manifests some kind of acne and other visible lesions, try starting a food diary and properly tracking your diet. Experimentation, in this case, means everything. If you also manifest other skin issues, such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea; then definitely seek medical advice in order to obtain a concrete diagnosis. Not only your whole gut and overall health is affected by the ingestion of components your body naturally classifies as irritating, but your skin will be constantly under stress. It is not rare to find adults chasing treatments for rashes, scarring and flare-ups. Also, why not try adding some ingredients with proven abilities to fight varied allergies?
Studies have proved that broccoli (even the stems), strawberries, green tea and parsley are great options and go a long way towards healing skin problems. You can investigate along with your allergist for further options and curate the ideal bespoke menu.
Studies have proved that broccoli (even the stems), strawberries, green tea and parsley are great options and go a long way towards healing skin problems. You can investigate along with your allergist for further options and curate the ideal bespoke menu.