Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a skin disorder that leads to redness, itchiness, and skin inflammation. The intensity of the symptoms can range from mild to moderate, and the frequency of flare-ups can also vary from one person to another. While medications can help prevent or treat flare-ups, a mindful diet goes a long way in managing the condition. Here are some of the best and worst foods for atopic dermatitis patients.
Foods to eat
Listed here are some of the best foods for managing atopic dermatitis:
Apples
Apples contain flavonoids, which have antioxidant and antihistamine properties that fight inflammation. Including apples in the regular diet can work wonders for managing eczema. They are also a rich source of vitamin C, which helps reduce the discomfort caused by itchy and dry skin. One can bite into a whole apple, or the fruit can be used in other recipes.
Bananas
Bananas have high potassium content, which is good for skin health, and they help fight inflammation. The best part? The fruit is readily available. One can have a banana by itself or add it to other recipes. Either way, one can enjoy its health benefits, so it is a must-have for people with this skin condition.
Sweet potatoes
They are rich in protein as well as vitamin C, which soothe the symptoms of eczema. They also contain antioxidants and help protect the body from the allergic responses that occur due to this disease. The potassium and fiber compounds in sweet potatoes make it a healing ingredient for those with skin health issues. One can opt for boiled sweet potatoes with lemon juice and salt or whip up a salad for a light meal.
Beef and chicken broth
These broths are among the best foods for managing atopic dermatitis. They contain glycine, a skin repairing amino acid that is used for making glutathione, which helps prevent oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Skin conditions like eczema increase the risk of skin damage, so this can prove greatly beneficial in trying to manage it. This amino acid also aids the production of collagen, which is an important structural protein that strengthens the muscles, ligaments, bones, and skin.
Salmon
The omega-3s in salmon are exactly what the body needs to fight the symptoms of eczema. All fatty fish are rich sources of these healthy fats and are among the best foods for managing atopic dermatitis. One can simply steam the fish and garnish it with some herbs, or a salad works just as well.
Foods to avoid
Certain foods can trigger or worsen flare-ups, but they vary from one person to another. Identifying one’s trigger foods is important to avoid them and prevent flare-ups. Some of the worst foods for atopic dermatitis patients are citrus fruits, eggs, dairy, gluten, spices, soy, tomatoes, and certain nuts.
Patients can also get an allergy test done to determine what foods and environmental elements can trigger flare-ups.
