Dietary Approaches for Managing Acne: Evidence-Based Recommendations

Overview

Diet plays a significant role in skin health and can influence acne severity. While diet alone may not cure acne, making informed dietary choices can support your overall treatment plan.

Key Dietary Recommendations

Foods to Reduce

• High-glycemic foods
  • White bread
  • Sugary beverages
  • Processed snacks
• Dairy products
  • Particularly skim milk
  • Some whey protein supplements
• Saturated and trans fats

Foods to Include

• Low-glycemic foods
  • Whole grains
  • Legumes
  • Fresh vegetables
• Omega-3 rich foods
  • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)
  • Chia seeds
  • Walnuts
• Antioxidant-rich foods
  • Colorful fruits and vegetables
  • Green tea
  • Dark leafy greens

Nutritional Supplements

• Zinc (15-30mg daily)
• Vitamin D (if deficient)
• Probiotics

Hydration

Maintain adequate water intake (8-10 glasses daily)

Additional Considerations

• Meal timing: Regular meals help regulate blood sugar
• Food journaling: Track potential trigger foods
• Consultation: Discuss major dietary changes with healthcare provider