Foods to Fight Acne Breakouts

For years people have been saying that pizza, French fries, chips, cookies and junk foods cause acne breakouts. In actuality there is no proven evidence that shows the connection to specific foods causing acne. Eating unhealthy carbohydrates sets off a chain reaction within the body causing the release of insulin, changing hormone levels in the body, which increases oil production and cellular multiplication. Increased sebum and cellular turnover can clog pores causing blackheads, zits and pimples. That’s why it’s important to eat a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients. The foods we eat can clear up your complexion and prevent common skin troubles such as acne. Foods acne fighting powers come from its nutrients, vitamins, and mineral content. Zinc, carotenoids, vitamin A and fiber all help to cure and prevent acne. By eating foods rich in these nutrients you can resolve your acne problems. The food you put inside your body is more important than the creams and cleansers you put on your face. The next time you breakout fill your fridge with acne fighting foods and watch your skin become smooth, clear and clean. Zinc- Zinc has been used to clear up acne for decades. It reduces inflammation in the skin, which cause acne to appear red and swollen. In addition to shrinking pimples it slows the production of sebum and reduces shine on the skin. Less oil production prevents more acne breakouts form forming. Great sources of zinc include almonds, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, baked beans, oysters and beef. Carotenoids- In the body carotenoids are turned into vitamin A. Vitamin A attacks blemishes, acne and pimples. Many topical acne ointments have vitamin A in them, however they work better from the inside out rather than from the outside in. Vitamin A fights acne by reducing inflammation, encouraging natural exfoliation through cell turnover and strengthening skins defenses against bacteria. Vitamin A keeps pores clean and clear and less prone to clog up causing pimples. Foods full of carotenoids include mango, cantaloupe, carrots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and spinach. Fiber- High fiber foods take longer for the body to breakdown than white starches. Foods high in fiber keep blood sugar and insulin levels steady. Unhealthy carbohydrates such as white bread, cookies, and pastries cause the pancreas to release insulin, which changes the body’s hormone levels and stimulates oil production. Replace refined carbohydrates for high fiber grains. Good sources of fiber include brown rice, whole grains bread, popcorn, and baby spinach.