Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, itching, and discomfort.
While many factors contribute to eczema flare-ups, such as environmental triggers and stress, diet can play a significant role in either alleviating or worsening the condition.
Certain foods can trigger an immune response, leading to increased inflammation and irritation of the skin.
If you suffer from eczema, it’s essential to be mindful of the foods you consume, as they could be exacerbating your symptoms.
Here are 12 foods that may make eczema worse and should be avoided or eaten with caution.
1. Dairy Products
Dairy is a common trigger for people with eczema, especially in children. Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products contain proteins like casein and whey, which can provoke an immune response, leading to increased inflammation and worsening eczema symptoms.
What to Do: If you suspect dairy is causing flare-ups, try eliminating it from your diet and replacing it with non-dairy alternatives such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
2. Eggs
Eggs are another common allergen that can contribute to eczema flare-ups, particularly in children. Egg whites contain proteins that can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to inflammation and increased itching in those with eczema.
What to Do: If eggs seem to make your eczema worse, try removing them from your diet and look for egg substitutes when cooking, such as flaxseed or chia seed gel.
3. Gluten and Wheat
For some people, gluten and wheat-containing foods can worsen eczema symptoms. Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye, and it can cause digestive issues and inflammation in individuals sensitive to it. This can also lead to skin irritation and flare-ups of eczema.
What to Do: Consider switching to gluten-free grains like quinoa, rice, and oats, and monitor if this improves your skin condition.
4. Soy Products
Soy is a common ingredient in many processed foods and can be a hidden trigger for eczema sufferers. Soy proteins can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to an immune response that exacerbates skin inflammation and itching.
What to Do: Check food labels for soy-based ingredients and experiment with eliminating soy from your diet to see if it reduces eczema symptoms.
5. Processed Foods
Processed foods, including fast food, snacks, and pre-packaged meals, often contain additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats that can trigger inflammation in the body. The high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats found in processed foods can lead to increased eczema flare-ups.
What to Do: Opt for whole, unprocessed foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats to reduce inflammation and support skin health.
6. Citrus Fruits
While citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are packed with vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system, they can sometimes trigger eczema flare-ups in sensitive individuals. The acidic nature of citrus can irritate the skin, especially if it’s already inflamed.
What to Do: Limit your consumption of citrus fruits and opt for other vitamin C-rich foods like strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.
7. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a healthy food choice, but they can be problematic for those with eczema. The acidity of tomatoes can irritate the skin, and their histamine content may contribute to inflammation and itching.
What to Do: Try cutting back on tomatoes and tomato-based products like ketchup, pasta sauce, and salsa to see if your eczema symptoms improve.
8. Nuts
Nuts, especially peanuts, are a common food allergen and can trigger eczema flare-ups in sensitive individuals. Tree nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews can also cause allergic reactions in some people, leading to increased itching and skin irritation.
What to Do: If you suspect nuts are contributing to your eczema, eliminate them from your diet and opt for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds as a substitute.
9. Shellfish
Shellfish, such as shrimp, crab, and lobster, can cause allergic reactions that may worsen eczema. Shellfish allergies are common and can trigger histamine production, leading to inflammation, swelling, and itching of the skin.
What to Do: Avoid shellfish if you notice eczema flare-ups after consuming it. Try incorporating other sources of protein like lean meats, fish, or plant-based options.
10. Spicy Foods
Spicy foods, while delicious, can sometimes trigger eczema flare-ups by increasing body heat and sweating. The capsaicin in spicy foods can irritate the skin, and sweating can further exacerbate itching and irritation in those with eczema.
What to Do: Limit your intake of hot peppers, curries, and other spicy dishes if you notice a connection between spicy foods and eczema flare-ups.
11. Sugar and Sweets
Sugar and sugary foods like candy, pastries, and sweetened beverages can contribute to inflammation in the body, making eczema symptoms worse. High sugar intake causes a spike in insulin levels, which can lead to increased inflammation and make skin conditions like eczema more difficult to manage.
What to Do: Reduce your sugar intake by avoiding sugary snacks, desserts, and drinks. Focus on whole, naturally sweet foods like fruits to satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthier way.
12. Alcohol
Alcohol can dehydrate the body and disrupt the balance of good bacteria in the gut, both of which can contribute to eczema flare-ups. Additionally, alcohol can dilate blood vessels, making inflammation and redness worse in those with sensitive skin.
What to Do: Limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether to help keep your skin hydrated and reduce inflammation. Opt for water, herbal teas, or other non-alcoholic beverages that support skin health.
While eczema triggers can vary from person to person, certain foods are known to exacerbate the condition in many individuals.