One of the biggest misconceptions floating around on the internet is the affect your diet can have on your skin. It is your body’s overall health that impacts your skin, not your diet. Of course, a healthy body stems from a healthy diet. But if you suffer from skin problems, do not expect them to do away when you make changes to the things you eat. Numerous factors like your emotional stability, nutrient intake, overall health, and even the city you live in can impact your skin!

Why is this myth so widespread if it isn’t true?

Now, you’ve probably read enough on the internet to substantiate the claim that your diet affects your skin. But think about the source. More often than not, these articles have a sales-angle to them. They may be pushing health supplements, herbal tablets, OTC products or anything else by promising better skin.

In fact many of the claims you may read on the internet are not substantiated by proper research. Following them will not help you combat the skin condition that you are suffering from. For instance, consider the following random claims:

  • Gluten leads to skin inflammation – no it does not! The current fad is gluten-free everything, so pitting the blame for skin inflammation on gluten makes sense for people who want to promote such fads. Gluten is an essential part of your diet. Only people who suffer from Celiac disease should avoid gluten.
  • Acne is caused by sweet foods - no it is not! Acne is caused by bacteria so unless you are eating chocolates laced with bacteria, it will not lead to your skin erupting. Of course, if you are chomping down chocolates by the truckload, then it is bound to affect your health, and by extension, your skin too.
  • Oily food causes oily skin – no it does not! Your skin is oily because it produces excess amounts of sebum. Sebum is a natural product of your body and is used to moisturize skin and hair, however, an excess of the same can lead to oily skin. Eating oily food does not lead to more sebum being produced.

But, my friend changed her diet and her skin improved!

Anecdotal cases are not medical facts. The truth is, everyone’s body is different. Certain foods and environmental conditions may agree with you while causing a range of problems in someone else. Does that mean that you need to stay away from certain foods altogether? No, of course not.

If there are certain foods that are genuinely causing skin problems, your certified dermatologist will conduct tests to confirm it and help you with your diet and skin health. Only then should you consider removing that ingredient or food from your diet.

So, what should I do?

Visit a skin care clinic and schedule a consultation with a certified dermatologist to properly understand why your skin has issues and how your diet affects your skin. The experts at the clinic can create a treatment plans for you. This is the best way to get glowing, beautiful skin!