Could Your Diet Be Triggering Psoriasis Flares?

From healthcentral.com

New research in JAMA Dermatology reveals a potential link between frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods and psoriasis flare-ups 

If you're struggling to keep your psoriasis under good control, making a few simple food swaps could help. Psoriasis flare-ups are strongly associated with consumption of ultra-processed foods like chips, cookies, candy, and other packaged fare, according to new research published in JAMA Dermatology.

For the study, researchers used questionnaires to gather data from 18,000 French adults and teens over 15. Around 10% of the people self-identified as having psoriasis, while 4% self-identified as being in the midst of an active psoriasis flare. (Self-identified means that the researchers relied on the individuals to share information about their psoriasis status, but didn't confirm the status with a medical diagnosis.) They collected other health data about the individuals, too, including body mass index (BMI), alcohol intake, and other underlying conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis.

The questionnaires also asked subjects about their ultra-processed food (UPF) intake—how often did they consume things like packaged baked goods, potato chips, pretzels, candy, sugary breakfast cereals, frozen desserts, frozen meals, and sugary drinks? Based on the responses, the researchers divided the individuals into three groups: People who consumed little to no UPF, those who consumed UPF sometimes, and those who consumed UPF frequently. (Researchers did not specify exact details on what they considered a UPF and max amounts per group.)

From there, the researchers ran the data. The objective: To see if subjects who ate more ultra-processed foods were more prone to psoriasis flares. The correlation, it turned out, was clear. People in the active flare group were about 1.3 times more likely to report frequent consumption of UPF compared to those who had never had a flare. That's even after adjusting for other factors that could potentially contribute to flare likelihood, like higher BMI, alcohol intake, or other underlying inflammatory health conditions.

                                                                                     GettyImages/monticello

Theories Behind the Findings

If you or a loved one has psoriasis, you're probably familiar with the way this inflammatory skin condition is triggered by a faulty immune response that leads to an overproduction of skin cells which then pile up on the skin's surface. The resulting plaques can be thick, red, scaly, and itchy, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Diet doesn't cause psoriasis, notes the Cleveland Clinic, but dermatologists and researchers have long noticed that certain foods tend to bring on flares for certain people. That could be because certain foods, including ultra-processed ones, are pro-inflammatory, the study authors note. "That means they initiate a cascade of inflammatory mediators through their interaction with gut bacteria and the immune system," which could send the immune system into overdrive and trigger a flare, explains Brendan Camp M.D., a board-certified dermatologist with MDCS Dermatology in New York City who was not involved in the JAMA study.

"In my clinic, I've had several patients who note their psoriasis flares increase when they stray from their 'healthier' diets, like during the holidays or on vacation," says Gabriela Cobos, M.D., the associate medical director of outpatient dermatology at Tufts Medical Centre in Boston, MA.

There's also the fact that diets high in UPF may increase the risk for obesity, according to a paper published in the journal Nature. Obesity is a known risk factor for psoriasis and worse flares among people who have the conditions, since excess body fat itself can increase inflammation throughout the body, notes an overview on obesity and psoriasis published in the journal Life.

Do You Need to Swear Off UPF Completely?

The study findings suggest that eating a lot of ultra-processed foods might make you more prone to a flare. Still, says the study authors, more large-scale studies are needed to better understand the role that UPFs play in psoriasis.

It’s also important to note the study's limitations. It was observational, so it wasn't able to prove that UPF causes psoriasis flares. And because the study relied on participants to self-report their skin condition, there is no clinical confirmation that everyone who claimed to have psoriasis actually had it. That might be worth further investigation, notes Dr. Cobos. "What stands out most is when you look at dermatologists’ validated cases, there is loss of significance of findings," she says, explaining that the association between UPF intake and flares dropped slightly when the researchers zeroed in on a group whose psoriasis cases were validated by a dermatologist.

Still, if you're desperate to help your skin look and feel a little better, curbing your processed food intake might be one of several strategies worth talking over with your doctor. "Psoriasis is a chronic, multisystem inflammatory condition influenced by genetics which people cannot control, so I like discussing several risk factors that they do have more control over," Dr. Cobos says.

That includes dietary choices and other healthy behaviours like limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking, she says. If you're overweight, losing weight matters, too. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that a weight-loss diet may improve psoriasis and reduce flare risk in those who are overweight or obese.

Despite the latest research, Dr. Cobos says people living with psoriasis should try not to overthink their diet. "I am a big believer in moderation—I don’t want my patients to feel stressed that if they have one alcoholic drink or eat a cookie or some chips that their psoriasis will worsen," she adds. Just stick to the good-for-you stuff most of the time.

https://www.healthcentral.com/news/psoriasis/could-your-diet-be-triggering-psoriasis-flares?ap=nl2060&rhid=&mui=&lid=141093361&mkt_tok=NTQxLUdLWi0yNDMAAAGYuKeJT6Ck3YQgU1MnKYtm_W8xxst2z35hdC6J0lnvYVUgkBmR6C1LIeMF-sNCxk2Xpx2OzDII4TU9Xjr-CYfuI81itan0rAaStOA5VkBIM6h2QCo

Doctor says 'intense' sign indicates contagious skin condition

From bristolpost.co.uk

Knowing the symptoms can help stop it from spreading

According to the British Skin Foundation, around 60% of Brits have or have previously experienced a skin condition. In general, it can prove extremely challenging to differentiate between common conditions such as scabies and psoriasis, but there are key tell-tale signs of each one.

That’s according to Dr Donald Grant, a GP with 40 years of experience who is senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy. He has explained what scabies and psoriasis are and revealed the tell-tale signs of each condition.

What is psoriasis?

Dr Grant said: “Psoriasis is an extremely common autoimmune condition that cannot be prevented. It comes in many forms and makes skin itchy, irritated and inflamed. This skin condition can also cause skin to become scaly; affected patches tend to show up as red, but can also show up as brown or purple, depending on skin colour. The NHS states that around two in 100 people in the UK suffer from psoriasis, but what are the tell-tale signs?"

Red patches of skin

Dr Grant said: “One of the most common symptoms of psoriasis is when the skin becomes inflamed with red patches of skin. This is a telltale sign of plaque psoriasis, the most common form of the skin condition and normally appears on elbows, knees or the scalp - but can show up in other sections of the body.

“These plaques may also become dry and have a silver scaly appearance. The overproduction of skin cells can make skin thick and dry, leading to itchiness and irritated skin. E45 Non-greasy Emollient Cream is available over-the-counter and can reduce itchiness, soothing skin and leaving it smoother."

Dry or cracked skin

Dr Grant said: “I recommend keeping a close eye on dry or cracked skin as it can be a tell-tale sign of psoriasis. Dry skin tends to show up as an early sign of this skin condition and can lead to cracking, which in turn, causes bleeding. This can massively affect confidence while also being painful to manage.

“To prevent cracking, I suggest regularly moisturising the affected area and avoiding potential irritants. If dry skin or cracking persists, it’s best to seek medical advice to get more clarity on the treatments available to you. Treatments such as Diprobase Cream are effective at targeting dry or flaky skin caused by psoriasis."

Pitted nails

Dr Grant said: “Nail psoriasis is a common type of skin condition affecting around half of those suffering from psoriasis, according to the NHS. A telltale sign of nail psoriasis is nail pitting - when small dents or pits form on the surface of fingernails or toenails. It impacts appearance and the fragility can make nails crumble in severe cases.

“Pitted nails can impact work and social lives, making writing or typing challenging while affecting people’s confidence. If your nails have changed in appearance or texture, it’s always best to seek further advice from a GP. It’s important to be aware of the condition to ensure people can identify the signs early, helping people receive treatment that can boost confidence by minimising symptoms and improving skin health."

What is scabies?

                                                                  Scabies causes intense itching (Image: Pexels)

Dr Grant said: “On the other hand, scabies is a condition caused by mites which burrow into the skin, unlike psoriasis, scabies is actually contagious and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, or sharing materials such as towels or bedding. According to the World Health Organisation, over 400 million people encounter scabies around the world, each year, so understanding the telltale signs is essential to reduce the spread and minimise symptoms. Let’s take a look in further detail."

Excessive itching

Dr Grant said: “Much like psoriasis, scabies can lead to intense itching, with the skin greatly disrupted by the mite infestation. People may find that their symptoms of itchiness get worse in hotter weather, or at night, further disrupting quality of life through sleep and comfort. These feelings can be persistent, but I advise people to avoid scratching the affected areas as it can exacerbate symptoms.

“Instead, over-the-counter moisturisers are best, helping to reduce itchiness symptoms. Typically, similar products for psoriasis can be utilised here by scabies sufferers, including E45 Non-greasy Emollient Cream."

Rashes

Dr Grant said: “While both psoriasis and scabies can cause rashes, they’re often different in appearance. Psoriasis-affected skin typically shows up as patchy scales whereas scabies is more of a pimple-like rash that is red and similar to blisters. This is a key way of identifying the different skin conditions and helping individuals receive the correct advice and treatments.

“One of the most effective treatments for targeting and removing scabies is Permethrin 5% Cream, which is available over-the-counter. This treatment can be applied on cool, dry skin and helps remove mites while alleviating itchiness symptoms."

Burrow marks

Dr Grant said: “Finally, another key telltale sign that an individual is suffering from scabies is burrow marks, which can quickly appear on the skin’s surface. This is a huge indicator of the skin condition, as it’s caused directly by the mites. These lines are typically thin and grey or white in colour, if a person is unsure of whether they have burrow marks, I’d recommend seeking advice from their GP to receive a clear diagnosis.

“Overall, scabies do not go away on their own, so treatment is a must. By being able to identify the condition early, people can limit the risk of transmitting it while also helping people avoid symptoms which can impact confidence and impede social lives or work.”

“In general, there are some significant differences between both psoriasis and scabies - including the appearance of rashes and the presence of burrow marks for scabies sufferers. For people unsure of the condition they’re experiencing, a registered GP can quickly identify and recommend effective treatments for each.”

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/health/doctor-says-intense-sign-indicates-9938504 

How X-Rays Are Used for Psoriatic Arthritis

From healthcentral.com

Usually the first step in imaging for PsA, these scans can help determine the level of damage in your bones and joints 

If you’re experiencing recurring and increasing joint pain, especially if you have the skin condition known as psoriasis, your doctor may have mentioned the possibility of psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic, inflammatory disease that involves the joints and entheses—where tendons and ligaments connect to bone. Psoriatic arthritis can start at any age, including in childhood, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. The condition affects about 30% of those with psoriasis but can develop even if you don’t have that issue.

Finding out whether you have PsA—or if the condition has advanced—will involve multiple strategies for diagnosis, including a physical exam and talking about family history, as well as imaging tests like ultrasounds, MRIs, and X-rays.

“Imaging such as X-rays can help us see any potential damage in the bones and joints from psoriatic arthritis,” says Anca Askanase, M.D., professor of medicine in the division of rheumatology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. “In some cases, you may be able to see bone changes without imaging, such as in the hands and feet, but even then, you would use an X-ray to assess the level of damage.”

The Role of X-Rays In Psoriatic Arthritis

According to research in the journal Dermatology and Therapy, early detection of joint damage is important in PsA because it can lead to treatment that can slow the progression of the condition, and help you maintain function.

Those researchers suggest that screening tools like MRIs and ultrasounds can assist in determining the severity of damage, but that X-rays represent a readily available first step for evaluating bone and joint involvement.

“Conventional radiography [like an X-ray] is the most commonly used imaging technique for assessing structural damage in PsA,” researchers note. “Radiographs are especially useful in detecting bone erosion and/or new bone formation, which tend to be seen in later stages of the disease, and can help visualize soft tissue swelling suggestive of dactylitis.”

Dactylitis is a condition involving inflammation of the fingers or toes that results in swelling, pain, and redness, and PsA is one of the common causes for this, along with infections, gout, and other types of arthritis. An X-ray that identifies joint damage and leads to treatment may be able to reduce the intensity and progression of dactylitis, the researchers add.

Another advantage of X-rays for PsA is the way the imaging can determine whether joints of the spine are involved, particularly through new bone formation, according to Orrin Troum, M.D., rheumatologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA.

“Extra bone tissue on the vertebrae, sometimes called ‘bone spurs’ are often seen with conditions that involve inflammation, such as PsA, ankylosing spondylitis, and osteoarthritis,” he says. “These bone spurs can lead to problems like limiting your range of motion, pain, stiffness, and nerve compression.”

The risk of bone spurs increases with disease progression and these can occur anywhere in the body for those with PsA, according to research in Arthritis Research & Therapy. That study looked at the prevalence of both bone spurs and bone loss in those with PsA and found that both are common, particularly at places where tendons attach to bone.

There is a limitation of X-rays for PsA, however. Dr. Troum says that this type of imaging is not as effective for seeing changes during early stages of the condition. That means if you’ve just been diagnosed with PsA and don’t have many symptoms, you may need additional imaging beyond X-rays to see whether there’s joint or bone damage that’s starting, he adds.

Monitoring Disease Progression With X-Rays

Another way that X-rays are used in PsA is to assess whether the condition is progressing or if treatment has slowed the rate of damage, says Dr. Askanase.

“Regular monitoring of psoriatic arthritis is crucial because it can help prevent some degree of long-term damage,” she says. “It can also give your health provider essential information on whether you’re responding to a specific medication or if your treatment may need to change.”

PsA progression is different for everyone, but in the later stages you may see joint deformity and reduced range of motion. Fortunately, treatment can keep most people from progressing to that point—as well as lowering risk of complications—but it requires some vigilance and regular check-ups, Dr. Askanase adds.

Other Imaging Techniques for Psoriatic Arthritis

Although X-rays are helpful, and will likely be the first step for imaging, there are other imaging options that can provide more information about what’s happening with your bones and joints when you have PsA.

• Bone Scans. Also known as bone scintigraphy, these scans can show bone damage and disease in multiple areas and the scans tend to be more sensitive than X-rays; because of this, they may be useful for detecting early changes when PsA is just starting.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scans. This type of scan shows bone damage and inflammation in PsA and they’re especially useful for evaluating the pelvis, spine, and shoulder girdle—areas that may not be as clear with an X-ray.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). While X-rays are focused on bones and joints, an MRI can detect inflammation in your soft tissues, like tendons and ligaments. That makes it easier to assess whether you have early signs of PsA.

• Ultrasound. Using high-frequency sound waves, ultrasounds are beneficial for detecting early indications of joint damage due to inflammation, and they may also be used to assess disease progression.

Imaging choice will usually depend on your health team’s recommendation and what X-ray results have shown as areas of concern, says Dr. Troum.

Are There Side Effects of X-Rays for PsA?

According to research in the journal Insight into Imaging, the primary side effect of X-rays—done for PsA or any other issue—is the small amount of radiation exposure related to the procedure.

However, the researchers note that this is only a concern with very frequent X-rays, or with pregnant women and young children. If you have regular X-rays, you may want to discuss radiation exposure with your doctor, suggests Dr. Troum. In some cases, you might be able to switch to different imaging without that minor exposure, such as ultrasounds.

Preparing for an X-Ray

Instructions for X-ray preparation can differ between providers, based on where you’ll be scanned on the body, but in general, Cleveland Clinic suggests you may be asked to:

• Avoid using creams, lotions, or perfume since these can cause shadows on your X-ray.

• Remove metal objects like jewellery or hearing aids.

• Stop eating or drinking several hours beforehand, if an X-ray involves the torso.

• Wear comfortable clothing or change into a gown for the X-ray.

Cleveland Clinic also recommends telling your healthcare provider about any allergies or medications you’re taking, and whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Bottom Line

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with PsA or you’ve had psoriasis for years and suspect it might be advancing toward PsA, X-rays can be an important part of taking care of your health and staying on top of the condition, says Dr. Troum.

“Like any aspect of psoriatic arthritis, it’s a good idea to see your doctor if you’re experiencing changes in symptoms like pain and stiffness, but it’s also helpful to have regular appointments based on your doctor’s recommendation about how often you should be checked,” he says. “The earlier you can identify a problem, the sooner you can treat it and the less likely it will be to progress into a more serious issue.”

Elizabeth Millard is a journalist specializing in health, wellness, fitness, and nutrition. Her articles have appeared in SELF, Men’s Health, CNN, MyFitnessPal, and WebMD, and she has worked on patient education materials for Mayo Clinic and UnitedHealth Group.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis-radiology 

Cold weather worsens symptoms of chronic illnesses, experts warn

From tbsnews.net

Many people with ongoing medical conditions experience more symptoms during the winter. Here's why, and what you can do

Cold weather can trigger flare-ups in several chronic conditions, including psoriasis, asthma, Raynaud's disease, and arthritis, according to health experts. 

Dry indoor air, reduced sunlight exposure, and extreme temperatures contribute to worsening symptoms, making winter months particularly challenging for those affected, according to a study published in Harvard Health Publishing. 

Psoriasis worsens due to dry air and lack of sunlight

People with psoriasis, a skin condition causing red, scaly patches, often experience flare-ups in winter due to dry skin, indoor heating, and reduced sunlight exposure. Additionally, seasonal infections such as strep throat can worsen symptoms.  

"UVB radiation slows down rapid skin growth in psoriasis," said Dr Sally Tan, director of the Atopic Dermatitis Specialty Clinic at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre. 

"Take shorter, lukewarm showers; use a humidifier around the house; and moisturise with bland, cream-based emollients liberally—at least once a day, right after showering—to keep the skin barrier intact."  

Dr Tan also advised getting 10 to 15 minutes of natural sunlight exposure daily and using broad-spectrum sunscreen, even indoors near windows, to prevent UV damage.  

Cold air a major trigger for asthma 

Asthma, a chronic lung disease, can worsen in winter due to cold air, which causes airway constriction and inflammation. 

"Most people with asthma are bothered by breathing cold air, which cools and dehydrates the airways, leading to bronchoconstriction," explained Dr Nicholas Nassikas, a pulmonologist at Beth Israel Deaconess.  

To prevent flare-ups, Dr Nassikas recommended wearing a mask outdoors to warm and humidify air before inhaling, taking a puff of a rescue inhaler before going outside for extended periods, and avoiding exposure to smoke or pollution. He also stressed the importance of adhering to prescribed asthma treatments and taking precautions against viral infections by washing hands frequently and wearing masks around sick individuals.  

Raynaud's disease increases risk of pain and blood flow issues

Raynaud's disease, a condition that affects blood flow to extremities, is particularly problematic in winter. Cold temperatures can cause excessive narrowing of blood vessels in the fingers and toes, leading to numbness, pain, and even complications in severe cases.  

"The vessels in the fingers and toes narrow excessively upon exposure to cold. This can compromise blood flow in the affected areas, which can be painful," said Dr Vasileios Kyttaris, a rheumatologist at Beth Israel Deaconess.  

To minimise symptoms, Dr Kyttaris advised avoiding unnecessary exposure to cold, dressing warmly with coats, hats, and mittens, and using hand and foot warmers. He also recommended keeping homes warm by increasing thermostat settings and sealing draughty windows. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe vasodilators to improve blood circulation.  

Cold weather and arthritis: An ongoing debate  

Many arthritis patients report worsening joint pain in cold weather, though scientific research remains inconclusive. Some believe that barometric pressure changes, increased stiffness, and reduced activity levels in winter contribute to heightened discomfort.  

"Some people tend to have more pain and stiffness during certain weather conditions, but research on the connection is inconclusive," said Dr Kyttaris.  

For those who experience more pain in winter, he suggested heat therapy, warm showers, and joint braces to reduce inflammation. He also emphasised the importance of regular exercise to maintain flexibility and reduce discomfort.  

Consult doctors for proper winter health management

Doctors advise adjusting treatments and lifestyle habits to manage symptoms during winter. Those experiencing significant changes in their conditions should consult their physicians for personalised management plans, potential prescription adjustments, or alternative therapies.

https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/health/cold-weather-worsens-symptoms-chronic-illnesses-experts-warn-1062251 

Protein Behind Psoriasis Flare-Ups Identified for the First Time

From technologynetworks.com

The protein behind flare-ups of psoriasis and its link to the immune system has been uncovered

Psoriasis, a painful and uncomfortable inflammatory skin condition that affects millions worldwide, flares up from the activity of disease- and infection-protecting immune cells.

In a new study, researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have determined that a protein called NF-kB c-Rel can intensify the condition’s symptoms when activated by signals from the body’s immune system. Understanding how “c-Rel” affects skin inflammation could lead to new treatments, they said.

The study, published recently in eBioMedicine, examined how c-Rel contributes to the function of a type of immune cell—known as dendritic cells (DCs). The study examined how c-Rel responds to specific immunological signals through Toll Like Receptor 7 (TLR7), which regulates innate immunity and inflammation, exacerbating psoriasis.

The researchers also found the absence of c-Rel alleviates inflammation that causes red, scaly patches on the skin.

“We believe that by focusing on c-Rel and TLR7, scientists might be able to create more targeted treatments that reduce inflammation and help psoriasis symptoms,” said Parameswaran Ramakrishnan, associate professor of pathology, member of the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center and researcher at Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center,  the study’s principal investigator. “This may help relieve the discomfort millions of people live with skin inflammation.”

The researchers examined skin samples from psoriasis patients and a mouse model with similar skin changes. They analysed c-Rel levels and its behaviour in specially engineered cells lacking the protein; they also examined the mouse model lacking c-Rel.

https://www.technologynetworks.com/tn/news/protein-behind-psoriasis-flare-ups-identified-for-the-first-time-395773

Clear Skin Begins With Your Diet—Here Are 6 Recommended Foods to Eat

From verywellhealth.com

While countless products are available for various skin needs, the foods in your fridge and pantry can also influence your skin care routine.

What you eat can affect how your skin looks and feels, and small nutritional changes can increase your chances of clear skin. Six foods, in particular, are known to promote healthy skin.

1. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish are oftentimes the healthiest fish to eat, thanks to their high omega-3 fatty acid content. Fatty acids from fatty fish can protect the skin from sun damage and reduce the effects of some skin conditions. 

Fatty acids from fish oil, for example, have been linked to sun protection, buffering the skin from ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure. Daily omega-3 fatty acid supplementation has been shown to reduce atopic dermatitis symptom severity and decrease Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores, a tool used to measure the extent of psoriasis.

Examples of fatty fish include:

• Salmon
• Mackerel
• Anchovies
• Bluefin tuna
• Herring
• Sardines
• Oysters
• Mussels

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, which can contribute to skin health. Carotenoids, a type of antioxidant found in tomatoes, help fight against UV-induced skin cell damage. Carotenoid supplementation has been shown to strengthen the skin barrier, which may be especially helpful for people with sensitive skin.

The antioxidants in tomatoes are also thought to improve inflammatory skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis. 

                                                                                                  Capelle.r / Getty Images

3. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in polyphenols known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A 2022 systematic review showed that consuming green tea protects the skin against UV radiation damage. However, the researchers noted that it may take more than two months of green tea supplementation for visible improvements in the skin. 

Other studies showed mixed evidence that green tea might also help with acne, skin integrity, and skin aging, but more research is needed to confirm the benefits.

4. Almonds

Almonds contain both essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which may contribute to skin health. Vitamin E supplementation, for example, is a useful therapy for atopic dermatitis.

A small study of postmenopausal women (those having undergone menopause, when the menstrual cycle has stopped for 12 consecutive months) found that daily almond consumption reduced the severity and width of wrinkles. 

More research is needed to better understand how almonds can improve skin health and conditions compared to vitamin E supplementation.

5. Flaxseed

Similar to fatty fish, the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed can contribute to healthy skin. Flaxseed oil supplementation has been linked with reduced skin sensitivity, roughness, and scaling, as well as improved skin hydration and smoothness.

Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseeds have also been shown to improve wound healing.

6. Soy

Multiple studies have found that consuming isoflavones found in soybeans stimulates collagen production, protects the skin against damage from oxidative stress (an imbalance between helpful antioxidants and harmful molecules called free radicals), and increases skin hydration.

Soy supplementation or topical application has also been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help with certain skin conditions, including acne and eczema.

What to Avoid

Foods to avoid for healthy skin vary from person to person. Those with certain skin conditions may need to choose foods that do not cause a reaction. Knowing which foods aren’t good for your skin may take some trial and error.

Foods that may cause acne, for example, include:

• Chocolate 
• Fast food
• Foods high in omega-6 fatty acids
• Greasy foods
• Refined grains
• Sugar
• Whey protein powder

Talk to a dermatologist (medical doctor specializing in conditions of the skin, hair, and nails) or another healthcare professional about which foods to avoid with chronic skin conditions.

Other Tips to Achieve Clear Skin

You don’t need a lengthy skin care routine or multiple products to achieve clear skin. In addition to eating healthy, here are some tips to help your skin be healthy and clear:

• Avoid squeezing pimples.
• Clean makeup brushes if you use them.
• Don’t smoke.
• Use sun protection.
• Use unscented moisturizers.
• Wash your face with mild soap and warm water.

Can Certain Foods Help With Skin Conditions?

Whether foods can help with skin conditions depends on the condition. Foods that may help when you have acne, for example, include:

• Apples
• Beans
• Carrots
• Nuts
• Oatmeal
• Salmon

Be sure to talk to a registered dietitian or dermatologist for advice on which foods to avoid and which foods may help your skin recover from flares and stay healthy.

Summary

There are countless skin care products to choose from to help you take care of your skin. But what you eat can affect your skin health too. While there is no perfect diet for achieving clear skin, choosing foods with potential skin benefits is a natural way to help keep your skin healthy. 

https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-foods-for-skin-8780420