The causes of oily skin are diverse. There are genetic and hormonal factors, puberty, menstruation, contraceptives, perspiration, even stress, and some foods that could increase the problem.
If you find that your oily skin is getting worse, it probably has to do with what you’re putting on your plate.
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Foods that make your skin look oily
Refined grains
Products made with refined grains such as white bread and cakes, as well as white rice, have a high glycemic index and promote oily and pimpled skin.
One study showed how a group of 43 acne-prone men who replaced refined grain products with whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and popcorn had significant improvements in their skin after 12 weeks.
Sugary sweets
Drinks and products with a large amount of added sugar, such as sodas, candy, cakes, cookies, and donuts, are not good for your skin. Replace with naturally sweet foods, but above all for those rich in antioxidants such as strawberries and berries that fight inflammation and help maintain the beauty of the skin.
Saturated fats
Foods that contain large amounts of saturated fat, such as red meat, processed meats, cold cuts, butter, cheese, and ice cream, promote inflammation. Did you know that acne is primarily an inflammatory disease?
Choose healthy alternatives like fatty fish (salmon, tuna, and sardines), beans, avocado, flaxseeds, chia, and walnuts. The omega-3 helps decrease inflammation and together with vitamins such as vitamin E and other antioxidants they will make your skin look better.
Cow milk
The American Academy of Dermatology shares the results of studies where all types of cow’s milk (whole, low-fat, and skim) have been linked to acne.
The reason why cow’s milk can increase or worsen acne is unknown. Although it is theorized that it is because some of the hormones in milk cause inflammation within the body.
Whey protein powder
In the same way, that cow’s milk has been linked to acne. Whey protein could make your fat problem worse.
Some studies have reported a link between whey protein supplement consumption and acne. In the reported cases, developed acne shortly after starting supplementation and disappeared after suspending it.
Yet more research is required to find out if certain foods can make oily skin and acne worse.
If you think your diet is affecting your skin, dermatologists recommend paying attention to breakouts and keeping track of what happens when you don’t have that food for a day, a week, or a month or drink that seems to trigger or worsen fat. So you can have clearer the patterns between food and your skin.
