Why You Should Ditch Gluten for Healthy Skin
What is gluten and what are its potential side effects on your skin?
Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley and rye. It’s also found in many processed foods. For some people, gluten can cause digestive problems, including bloating, gas and diarrhea.
In people with celiac disease, gluten can damage the lining of the small intestine, making it difficult to absorb nutrients. This can lead to a host of other health problems, including anemia, osteoporosis and skin rashes.
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity is another condition that can be triggered by gluten. Symptoms of non-celiac gluten sensitivity include headache, joint pain, fatigue and brain fog. Like celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity can also cause skin problems.
Can gluten cause acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. While there are many possible causes of acne, some research suggests that gluten may be a trigger.
In one study, 42% of participants with acne reported feeling better when they avoided gluten. Another study found that a gluten-free diet improved acne in 60% of participants.
How does gluten cause acne?
There are a few possible explanations.
- First, gluten can damage the gut lining, which may lead to inflammation and an overgrowth of bad bacteria. This can trigger an immune response and inflammation throughout the body, including the skin.
- Second, gluten can cause a spike in insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps to regulate blood sugar levels. When insulin levels are high, it can trigger the release of other hormones, including testosterone. And excess testosterone can lead to acne.
- Finally, some research suggests that certain components of wheat may increase inflammation in the body and contribute to acne.
If you’re struggling with acne, ditching gluten may be worth a try. A gluten-free diet can be healthy for many people, but it’s important to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Speak to a registered dietitian or your doctor before making any major changes to your diet. They can help you plan a healthy, balanced diet that meets your needs.
What are some of the best gluten-free foods to eat for healthy skin?
There are plenty of nutritious, gluten-free foods to choose from. Here are a few that may help keep your skin healthy:
• Fruits and vegetables: These are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage.
• Fish: Fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory.
• Nuts and seeds: These are another source of omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also high in vitamin E, a nutrient that helps to keep skin healthy.
• Oils: Some oils, such as olive oil, can help to keep the skin hydrated.
• Probiotic-rich foods: Probiotics help to keep the gut microbiome healthy. A healthy gut microbiome is linked to a reduced risk of inflammation and other skin problems.
To get the most benefit, focus on whole, unprocessed foods. These are typically lower in sugar and other ingredients that can trigger inflammation or cause other problems for the skin.
A gluten-free diet may help to improve your acne. If you’re considering making this change, speak to a registered dietitian or your doctor first. They can help you plan a healthy, balanced diet that meets your needs.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. For some people, gluten can cause digestive problems, including bloating, gas and diarrhea. In people with celiac disease, gluten can damage the lining of the small intestine, making it difficult to absorb nutrients. This can lead to a host of other health problems, including anemia, osteoporosis and skin problems.