Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition affecting adults, especially those aged 45 and older. It is characterized by persistent patches of scaly skin that are resistant to over-the-counter creams and can also be resistant to medication.
Seborrheic dermatitis is caused by an overproduction of sebum (oil) in your scalp and/or face. Common triggers include stress and illness; however, certain foods may also trigger outbreaks! Here we list what foods to avoid if you have seborrheic dermatitis.
What foods to avoid if you have Seborrheic Dermatitis
The relationship between food and their ailment can be vexing for individuals with seborrheic dermatitis. If you have this skin disorder, it is essential to adhere closely to your diet to avoid aggravating symptoms or even experiencing them!
To quell any concerns about altering one’s diet, let’s explore the most compelling options available to you. In no particular order, here are some foods that those living with seborrheic dermatitis should avoid:
Gave up meat? Then don’t miss out on poultry like turkey, grilled chicken, and fish like salmon! Seafood such as tuna and shrimp also make an excellent addition to any diet plan.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is an indulgent treat that many people adore, but if you have seborrheic dermatitis, there are several things to keep in mind: consuming chocolate can lead to an exacerbation of this ailment.
Since 75% of the population experiences contact dermatitis, it’s common knowledge that foods can be irritating or even toxic to those with sensitive skin. Despite the high concentration of phenols within dark chocolates, most contain added sugars and fats, which may not be such a big deal when eaten in moderation – but could prove troublesome for those with sensitive epidermis!
Indeed, anywhere between 10% and 50% of individuals experience some form of contact dermatitis whenever they come into contact with certain materials; meanwhile, up to 20% report experiencing eczema severity upon contact with petrochemical products.
2. Coffee
Coffee isn’t necessarily off the hook regarding its potential to exacerbate seborrheic dermatitis, but it’s worth taking precautions in most cases. If you’re drinking coffee regularly, consider limiting intake to no more than three cups of java a day – even then, there are varying opinions about how much is too much!
f you’re experiencing any signs of an exacerbation with this ailment, such as redness or itching on your scalp or face, then it’s prudent to take a break from drinking any caffeinated drinks while they heal. Allow your condition to calm down before resuming regular consumption.
As mentioned by nutritionist Eliza Witte in an interview with Medical Daily, consuming caffeine may worsen some skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis; however, it could help treat certain types of seborrheic dermatitis.
3. Anything Fermented
You may be accustomed to consuming fermented foods like miso soup or sauerkraut. But did you know that even some non-fermented foods contain probiotics? Probiotic supplements can also be found in yoghurts, beverages like kombucha and even meat products!
Probiotic foods and beverages are not without their own controversy; some experts claim fermented products could potentially aggravate seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. Others claim that they have no ill effects whatsoever on those with this condition.
If you choose to consume probiotic foods or beverages, speaking to your physician about potential interactions between probiotics and other medications you may be taking is prudent.
4. Corn
Eating corn can lead to a rash and inflammation, so it’s prudent not to indulge in this food. Corn is rich in trypsin-like enzymes, which are associated with seborrheic dermatitis.
If your dietary regimen does not include corn for whatever reason – perhaps you’re a vegan or gluten intolerant – then you may relieve this condition through diet modifications without using pharmaceuticals.
5. Crackers
Are you susceptible to experiencing outbreaks of seborrheic dermatitis? If so, it might be prudent not to snack on crackers as frequently as possible.
The reason behind this is due to their vulnerability in facilitating yeast growth inside the digestive tract. Yeast thrives in a moist and warm environment, making crackers perfect places for them!
Some individuals with seborrheic dermatitis have reported mild episodes of discomfort while consuming foods containing yeast, leading to further flare-ups of their condition. By adhering to a strict diet plan without fail – one which strictly prohibits the consumption of any yeast-containing products such as bread – one may prevent exacerbating their symptoms and alleviate any unpleasant sensations associated with them.
On the other hand, if none of these precautions proves effective in alleviating your symptoms or preventing future occurrences, then talk to your physician about potential treatment options.
6. Dairy Products
Dairy products can be an excellent choice for anyone who craves a creamy snack or meal. However, it is prudent to avoid consuming dairy products altogether if you are lactose intolerant or hypersensitive – such as those afflicted with seborrheic dermatitis.
If your doctor has diagnosed you with a malignancy and requests that you follow a restricted diet, such as one containing no dairy products at all, don’t fret: You can still obtain delicious foods like ice cream and cheesecake in moderation without compromising your health!
If any symptoms persist after giving up dairy products, it could lead to weight gain and even exacerbate dermatitis symptoms; on the other hand, if you choose to reintroduce them into your diet, this may help relieve some of the more irritating symptoms.
7. Doughnuts
Have you ever succumbed to the allure of doughnuts? If so, you might want to reconsider. Regularly consuming foods with high sugar levels can be perilous for anyone, including those with acne-prone complexions.
For some individuals, even a small intake of sugary foods may lead to weight gain and exacerbate existing health conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Overindulging also makes one more likely to be obese and at greater risk for developing other co-existing ailments such as cardiovascular disease; therefore, it’s highly advisable that individuals maintain optimum body weight for optimal health!
On top of all that, frequent consumption of doughnuts can result in a number of unpleasant side effects, including fatigue, indigestion and constipation.
8. Eggs
Eggs are a staple of many breakfast dishes, but consuming them regularly may not be the best decision for individuals with seborrheic dermatitis. This is because egg whites lack histamine or tryptase – compounds essential to regulating inflammation in the skin from its base level when it comes to sebaceous gland activity.
On top of that, an excess of dietary cholesterol can lead to higher levels of LDL cholesterol – a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.
While eggs are nutritious and provide ample protein, those with compromised immune systems should minimize their consumption due to the potential risks associated with this food group.
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using flaxseed oil in place of regular cooking oil, as flaxseed has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties while also providing nutritional value!
9. Fish and Shellfish
Consuming seafood is an indisputable part of our diet; however, those with seborrheic dermatitis should be cautious about consuming fish and shellfish. Fish oil can exacerbate symptoms in several ways. For instance, its high content of omega-3 fatty acids can increase levels of inflammation within the skin – a major contributing factor to many cases of eczema!
On the flip side, seafood (e.g. shrimp) is an excellent source of beneficial nutrients like vitamin B12, which helps support optimal health. Furthermore, some varieties – such as oysters and clams – are packed with zinc, which has been shown to help improve your complexion!
If you’re craving succulent seafood dishes, try these healthy alternatives – they’ll help keep your skin happy while providing all the essential nutrients you desire!
10. Fried Foods
Fried foods can be problematic for those with seborrheic dermatitis, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can result in flare-ups that typically occur after four weeks of regular consumption.
You may crave deep-fried food when you’re out with friends or busy with your daily routine. However, it’s important to remember that while these items may taste delicious, consuming them regularly could lead to further skin irritation.
While many people find frying to be an effective way to prepare foods at home and get a satisfying meal on the table, this technique has been associated with an increased risk of developing seborrheic dermatitis.
11. Gluten-Free Foods
If you deal with any form of dermatitis, it’s important to check whether your diet has an impact.
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat and rye – therefore, eliminating this from your diet can help lessen the symptoms of this affliction.
The variety of dietary choices available today has rendered gluten intolerances more common than ever; consequently, many individuals may inadvertently consume this flavoring agent without realizing it!
12. Nuts
Like many other foods, nuts can benefit you when eaten in moderation. However, if you are suffering from seborrheic dermatitis, one of the most common considerations must be avoiding nuts.
Although nuts offer great nutritional value, their high-fat content can aggravate existing skin conditions and lead to further issues. If you already have a chronic condition such as eczema or psoriasis, consuming these foods may cause further flare-ups, making life even more challenging! In this case, avoiding nuts and other higher-fat foods is best while recovering from your dermatological issue.
If you don’t need to avoid almonds, macadamias and peanuts (among other varieties), consider substituting them with lower-calorie counterparts such as hazelnuts or cashews.
Conclusion
Are you aware of any foods that may aggravate your seborrheic dermatitis? If so, please let us know! We would love to learn more about the factors contributing to this condition.
If you are afflicted with this condition, it is essential that you maintain a healthy diet. These tips will help ensure it remains under control:
Reduce your stress level and take up activities that engage your mind; additionally, try to remain calm and detached from upsetting situations.
Keep yourself occupied with hobbies that don’t require too much effort or concentration – this can help keep your mind off the discomfort of having seborrheic dermatitis.
Do not neglect daily hygiene routines, such as bathing and using topical treatments for your skin. This may help alleviate any discomforts associated with the ailment.
