Diets to Clear Acne

by Marisa Serafini

Overview

Over the years, science has debated whether diet plays an active role in acne problems. While some researchers and physicians claim that diet has no, or very limited, association with acne, others claim that diet and acne have everything to do with each other. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association diet does not directly affect acne in most people. On the other hand, Dr. Nicholas Perricone asserts that diet plays a major role in whether a person suffers from acne. Regardless, many physicians and holistic professionals will recommend dietary guidelines for improving patients' skin.
Acne Diet

The "acne diet" is not a specific diet plan, but a set of nutritional guidelines often prescribed by holistic professionals in the treatment of acne. Recommendations for acne sufferers may include any of the following: drinking plenty of water, cutting out fried, greasy and fatty foods, increasing intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, switching to whole grain pasta, cereal and bread, and eating low-fat dairy products. When it comes to acne, dietary recommendations tend to emphasize fiber, antioxidants, and water intake for clear skin. Dietary fiber keeps the digestive tract moving efficiently while antioxidants reduce inflammation and water helps remove toxins from the body.

Perricone Diet

The "Perricone diet" is a diet plan recommended by Dr. Nicholas Perricone for keeping the skin clear. According to Dr. Perricone, our skin is a reflection of what is going on in our digestive tract. To keep the digestive tract and the skin in good condition, the diet involves cutting sugar and yeast intake while increasing healthy proteins and essential fatty acids. Since the starches we eat have a heavy impact on inflammation and blood sugar regulation, Dr. Perricone suggests making vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables the basis of your daily eating. Following the Perricone Acne diet also means eating lean sources of protein, especially salmon, chicken and eggs. Any fat in the diet should be the healthy kind, unsaturated. These fats come from foods like nuts, avocados and olive oil.

Overview