CAN DAIRY
CAUSE ACNE?
Yes, there is evidence that milk and cheese can cause breakouts
Different studies report different results, but there is some evidence that increased dairy intake can be an acne trigger. Doctors don't know exactly why, but the working hypothesis is that hormones in dairy products may be the culprits. Try cutting down on milk, cheese, yoghurt, and cream (without taking things to the extreme) and see how your skin fares. And remember, whey protein shakes are like mega-concentrated milk! Steer clear if breakouts are an issue.
DOES CHOCOLATE CAUSE
SPOTS?
No, there is little evidence that chocolate causes acne
Everyone is different, so if you find chocolate causes you to break out, avoid it if you can. But there's no solid evidence that chocolate has any effect on acne. Plus dark chocolate is packed with skin-loving anti-oxidants!
CAN SWEETS AND CAKES
TRIGGER A BREAKOUT?
Yes, sugar can make acne worse
Recent studies have shown that high Glycemic Index foods - the ones that cause blood sugar to spike - can make acne worse. We know it's easier said than done, but to keep your skin happy, steer away from sweets, sugary drinks, and goodies made from white flour. If you stick to high-fiber foods, like whole grains and pulses, your skin will thank you.
WILL DRINKING WATER
FLUSH AWAY MY ACNE?
No, but drinking water is generally good for your health
Proper hydration is essential for good overall health and your skin is no exception, but extra trips to the water cooler are not going to clean out your pores or wash away your zits any time soon (if only it was that simple!).
ARE FISH OILS GOOD
FOR MY COMPLEXION?
Yes, oily fish can help keep acne at bay
Oily fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help to fight inflammation in all of the body's systems, including our largest organ, the skin. Try to slot in a serving of salmon or tuna a couple of times a week to help keep acne at bay. If you can't face fish, walnuts are a great source of omega-3 too.
CAN VITAMIN AND MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS
CURE ACNE?
No, there is no nutritional supplement that will fight acne
The main causes of acne are essentially hormonal and not related to vitamin or mineral deficiencies. However, a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables will help provide skin with the essential nutrients it needs to heal pimples. A "rainbow on your plate" is a good rule of thumb, as colored fruit and vegetables are packed with natural anti-oxidants that help skin keep inflammation in check.
DO OILY FOODS
CAUSE ACNE?
No, but for good health, go easy on the pizza and chips
A common acne myth is that grease on your plate translates to more oil in your pores, but there is no direct link between the two. However, a diet rich in saturated fat can fuel micro-inflammation in all of the body's organs, including the skin. In short, bacon and chips won't cause acne, but moderation is the best policy for overall health.
CAN ALCOHOL
BRING ON SPOTS?
No, but drinking too much is not good for your skin
There is no convincing evidence that alcohol has any bearing on acne. However, it is known to make facial redness worse by causing blood vessels to dilate in the skin. Alcohol is also dehydrating, so always drink in moderation.
Learn more about causes of acne HERE.
Want to more about how acne works? Click HERE.