Eva Glaser, MD and Elizabeth Koh, MD Andrews McMeel Distribution
Dear doctors! Last year, red spots began to appear on the skin of my elbows. My doctor said it was eczema and prescribed creams for the terrible itching . They work really well, but I think something I can do with my diet might also help .
Dear reader! Eczema is a common skin disease characterized by patches of dry, flaky, itchy, and inflamed skin. It occurs in people of all ages, including newborns, children, and adults.
There are several different types of eczema, but most cases fall under the category of atopic dermatitis. The main symptom of this type of eczema is persistent itching.
As you may have noticed, eczema symptoms tend to wax and wane. These outbreaks can be affected by the environment, such as dry or cold weather; dampness or humidity; pet dander; dust tweezers; chemicals in some perfumes, soaps or detergents; Pollen; and forms . While the exact causes of eczema are still unknown, genetics and immune function are known to play a role. There is also a strong association with allergies. This has made the potential role of nutrition in treating flare-ups of eczema an area of research interest for several decades.
Several studies , as well as anecdotal reports from people with eczema, show that what a person eats and drinks can affect the frequency and severity of flare-ups . Certain foods have been found to play a role in the recurrence of symptoms in some patients. These include eggs, citrus fruits, soy products, tomatoes, and other dark vegetables. Sugar, wheat, nuts and milk, as well as gluten and alcohol, can also be linked to eczema flare-ups in some people.
There are currently no official guidelines for using a diet to treat eczema. This means that a person living with the condition needs to know if they have an intolerance to certain foods or certain food groups. This may include using an elimination strategy to identify specific trigger foods. First, the suspect product is removed from the diet. Then, after a while, it is gradually applied again. If this coincides with a worsening of eczema symptoms, food may be the trigger.
For many people, a good starting point is to adopt an anti-inflammatory diet. This means avoiding added sugar, simple carbohydrates, and highly processed foods. Instead, follow a diet that focuses on lean protein, fresh fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, and healthy fats. Some studies show that omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for eczema, so you should include oily fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel in your diet. And , as we discussed above, stay away from wheat and nightshade, which are associated with eczema flare-ups .
Some small studies looking at prebiotics and probiotics as a possible way to relieve eczema have shown promising results. Adding naturally fermented foods to your diet can also be beneficial.
Send your questions to Askthedoctors@mednet.ucla.edu.