As many as 85% of Australians are likely to develop acne, with around 5% experiencing severe acne during their lifetime. Acne is not only a distressing part of adolescence, but it can also continue on into adulthood. Almost half of men and women can expect to continue to experience acne into their thirties. While severe acne can be painful, it can also be embarrassing and distressing and have a huge impact on a person’s self-confidence. However, switching to an organic diet can make a huge difference in helping you prevent and treat acne, while also caring for your skin.
The Causes of Acne
Acne is a skin condition that causes small bumps on the skin. These bumps are actually pimples, whiteheads and blackheads. In most cases, they appear on the face, neck, back and chest. Acne happens when your skin’s pores become clogged with oil and dead skin. It generally occurs in older children and teenagers going through puberty. But people can also experience acne post-adolescence, either continuing from your teens or it can start in your 20s. You can help to look after your skin by ensuring you always use a gentle cleanser and choose oil-free cosmetics and skin care products. But what effect is your diet having on your skin?
Impact of Diet on Skin
It’s become well-known that a diet high in sugar, factory farmed animal products, processed foods and chemicals can cause heart disease, lead to cancer, type 2 diabetes among many other conditions. But it can also contribute to acne. Diet can have a huge impact on the appearance and health of your skin. Certain foods raise your blood sugar much quicker than others. When your blood sugar goes up quickly, it causes the body to release the hormone insulin. Foods such as pasta, white rice, white bread and sugar will often trigger spikes in insulin.Excess insulin in your blood can result in your oil glands producing more oil. This, in turn, increases your risk of acne.
Choose Organic for Clear Skin
A whole-foods, organic and plant-based diet, rich in nutrients and antioxidants, that also minimizes fast foods, sugar and dairy, will boost every cell in your body, restore the health of your skin and, help you fight acne. A diet of fresh, organic low-glycemic foods made of complex carbohydrates found in legumes, whole grains and unprocessed fruit and vegetables can help reduce your risk of developing acne. Meanwhile, to help your skin beat an acne breakout, opt for yellow and orange fruits and vegetables like apricots, sweet potatoes and carrots. Tomatoes, whole-wheat bread, blueberries, brown rice, beans, peas and lentils along with salmon, mackerel are also great for keeping your skin clear.
While everyone’s skin is different, reviewing your diet and focusing on fresh and organic foods could be the answer to clear, acne-free skin, while also giving your body an overall positive health boost too.