Does diet really affect acne?
Acne vulgaris has anecdotally been attributed to diet by individuals affected by this skin condition. In a 2009 systematic literature review of 21 observational studies and 6 clinical trials, the association between acne and diet was evaluated. Observational studies, including 2 large controlled prospective trials, reported that cow's milk intake increased acne prevalence and severity. Furthermore, prospective studies, including randomized controlled trials, demonstrated a positive association between a high-glycemic-load diet, hormonal mediators, and acne risk. Based on these findings, there exists convincing data supporting the role of dairy products and high-glycemic-index foods in influencing hormonal and inflammatory factors, which can increase acne prevalence and severity. Studies have been inconclusive regarding the association between acne and other foods.
Ferdowsian
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Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.
Levin
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D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002099:Cacao / Q000009:adverse effects; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003611:Dairy Products / Q000009:adverse effects; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D038321:Glycemic Index; D006801:Humans; D017673:Sodium Chloride, Dietary / Q000009:adverse effects
D017673:Sodium Chloride, Dietary