Acne analysis

The influence of diet on the induction and aggravation of acne has been a matter of intense debate over the past few years. The pioneering observation by L. Cordain et al (Am J Clin Nutr) demonstrated that acne is a disease of Western civilization and is absent in populations consuming Palaeolithic diets without refined sugars, grains and dairy products. Based on this research published in 2005 we now know that a diet devoid of grains and dairy, dramatically improves acne.

Milk consumption, grain and sugar rich diets induce insulin and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor one) which induces sebaceous lipogenesis and keratinocyte proliferation, which can aggravate acne. Until recently there had only been a weak link between the role of milk and dairy products in acne pathogenesis. There is however now substantial epidemiological and biochemical evidence supporting the effects of milk and dairy products as enhancers of IGF-1 signalling and acne aggravation.

Many teenagers with severe acne often exist on a bowl of cereal and milk for breakfast, a cheese sandwich for lunch and sometimes rice, pasta or noodles for dinner. Plus various amounts of junk food and sugar-laden drinks as snacks.

A starting point to address severe acne is to clean up the diet. Focus on vegetables, tart fruits, nuts, fish, eggs, olive oil. Avoid refined and processed food, sugar and lollies, fruit juices, breads, excessive grains, dairy and extracted seed oils.

Dietary amendments, together with sufficient water, and sometimes also herbal medicine and zinc supplementation for extra treatment assistance, can dramatically improve acne.