Chocolate and French fries - the real culprits?
For the most part, dermatologists agree that chocolate and greasy foods do not directly cause or aggravate pimple since these foods do not lead to an overproduction of oils secreted by the sebaceous glands - this excess oil being the main contributor to pimple breakouts.
Although chocolate and greasy foods can be ruled out as having a direct link, it's worth giving greasy, fried foods a second look. It is now common for dermatologists to recommend switching to a healthy diet and eliminating certain foods while battling pimple. In the case of greasy foods, they have a tendency to increase free radicals in our bodies. Free radicals can actually cause damage to our cells and inhibit our immune systems, which can in turn influence the health of our skin.
Milk
In one study of survey data, investigators found that whole milk and skim milk are "associated with a slightly increased risk of pimple in teenage patients." (Slawson 2005). Scientists in this study pointed out, however, that the study does not prove causation or that decreasing milk intake can help decrease pimple. One concern by scientists is that calcium and vitamin D, particularly in teenage women, is crucial for bone formation during adolescence.
If you feel that milk is causing pimple flare-ups, try staying off dairy products (milk, butter, yogurt, cheese or any food containing dairy) for 2 weeks. You can still have eggs and be sure to take a calcium supplement. During these two weeks, your pimple may actually get slightly worse in the first few days before your skin starts to clear. This is due to the body detoxifying and you may even develop cold symptoms during the first few days.
If your skin has improved after these 2 weeks, then it's likely you have a dairy intolerance. You will want to see a nutritionist to check for food sensitivities to dairy products.
Bread
According to scientists at the Colorado State University in Fort Collins, there's a possible link between pimple and highly processed breads and refined cereals. In brief, white bread and other refined grains lead to a spike in levels of certain insulin compounds in the body. And evidence from previous studies suggests that insulin can cause pimple. To be on the safe side, try eating whole grain breads and high-fiber cereals whenever possible. Avoid eating white bread and heavily processed cereals.
Foods to help you fight pimple
Just as important as avoiding certain foods, you have at your disposal an "army" of foods that can help you fight pimple. Choose foods that are high in antioxidants as they are a major contributor to healthy-looking skin. Good sources of antioxidants: fresh fruits and raw vegetables.
In summary, chocolate and French fries are not direct culprits of foods that cause pimple. However, milk and highly processed grains are more likely to aggravate an pimple condition or cause flare-ups. Switching to whole wheat breads and other complex, high-fiber grains is an easy step and you may see an improvement in your pimple. Milk, however, should not be discontinued for long periods of time without first consulting with your health care professional, especially if you're an adolescent.
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