Acne
Acne occurs most commonly during the teenage years. Research has shown healthy dietary habits can play a role in improving acne symptoms.
What causes acne?
Acne occurs when the pores in the skin get blocked and there is a build up of oil. Research has shown teenagers who ate foods that were higher in protein, had a lower GI and were less processed had a 50% reduction in acne 1.
Genes and hormones also play a role in acne, however it is now believed that diet is an important factor in helping to reduce acne.
Eating right to keep skin healthy
For healthy skin, ensure you eat a healthy diet which includes protein rich foods and low GI carbohydrates. For example:
- Eat at least 3 serves of low GI fruit (such as apples, bananas and strawberries) and at least 5 serves of vegetables every day
- Switch to low GI carbohydrate options such as wholegrain breads and cereals, pasta and basmati rice
- Include one lean protein serve with each meal such as lean meat, fish, poultry, eggs, legumes and nuts
- Include 3 serves of low-fat dairy every day
- Limit foods high in fat, particularly saturated fat, sugar and salt
- Drink plenty of water each day
- Exercise regularly and be physically active
For help with healthy eating, contact an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) for expert nutrition and dietary advice tailored to your needs.
1 Smith, R., Mann, N., Braue, A., Makalainen, H. and Varigos, G. 'The effect of a higher protein, lower glycaemic load diet vs a conventional, higher glycaemic load diet on biochemical parameters associated with acne vulgaris'. A randomised investigated-masked controlled trial' Journal of American Academy of Dermatology01-AUG-2007;57(2):247-56
