Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Food and Acne – Is there actually a connection?

To answer plain and simply, yes, there is a connection between food and the condition of your skin. Today I’m going to explain how certain foods cause acne and I’m also going to tell you about some foods that are great for getting clear skin.
You’ve probably been told that chocolate and sugar cause acne. Though this is a myth, there technically is some truth to this statement. Let me explain, I’m going to warn you now this might get a little complicated.
·         High-glycemic foods are foods that break down rapidly and enter the bloodstream quickly as glucose.

·         When these foods are eaten they boost blood sugar too quickly and when this happens, the pancreas responds by making extra insulin to bring sugar levels back to normal.

·         Since this is an unintended consequence, the insulin also signals the sebaceous glands to manufacture and secrete sebum (an oil like substance that is carried to our pores through hair follicles). In normal quantities, sebum is a good thing, but too much causes the bacterium P. acnes to over-propagate and jam up the hair follicles.

·         The result of this is whiteheads and blackheads on your forehead, chin, cheeks, and nose. 
You’re probably wondering what foods are considered to be high-glycemic foods. Below is a list:
·         French Fries
·         White Bread
·         Soda
·         Doughnuts
·         Rice Krispies
·         Cornflakes
·         Chips
·         Jelly Beans
·         Pretzels
·         Chocolate Bars
Chocolate bars are considering to be a high-glycemic foods which is where the statement that chocolate gives you acne comes from.
Remember, eating these foods in moderation should not cause acne. Depending on the person, you might even been able to eat these foods every day and not experience acne.

Below is a list of foods that are great for achieving and maintaining clear skin:
      ·         Fish
    ·         Water
      ·         Fiber rich foods
      ·         Whole Grains
      ·         Green Tea
      ·         Berries
      ·         Dark Greens
      ·         Nuts and Seeds
      ·         Purple and Red Foods



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