The Connection Between Acne and Your Diet

Acne affects around 90 percent of the world population during some period of their lives. Acne is in fact the most commonly existing skin disorder, more common than for instance malignant melanoma, with most of its victims being teenagers and young adults. According to scientifically conducted research, acne can be caused by many different factors, such as bacteria, hormones and to some degree even genetic factors. Another common perception is that Acne can be caused by poor diet, a fact that is disputed by many dermatologists, but by some are held to be true to a certain degree….

The link between Acne and Diet, is an issue that has been studied clinically for years. Whilst many dermatologists claim that a poor diet has absolutely nothing to do with the formation of acne, still others hold true that there is indeed a link between formation of acne and a poor diet, and that certain common elements of a poor diet can cause acne to form.

Studies have shown that digesting refined carbohydrates and sugar lead to a surge in the production of insulin, as well as an insulin-like growth factor in the body, known as IGF-1. If this substance forms, it can lead to a over-production of male hormones, androgens, which are well known to be one of the most potent causes of acne. The theory is that if an excess of androgens is produced, the pores of the skin will secrete sebum (a greasy substance) that will attract acne-causing bacteria. This process, in addition, triggers IGF-1 to cause the keratinocytes to multiply and duplicate, a process well known as a factor in acne formation.

Other studies conducted on acne cases in Papua New Guinea have shown that the appearance of acne can be triggered by environmental factors, of which diet has been found to be one. These acne and diet studies pointed out that a limited use of grain, or better yet a no-grain diet, could be beneficial in preventing acne formation.

Today, the acne and diet link is still an issue of some controversy in the medical research field. Claims are that there is too little research regarding the connection between acne and diet, since there is no money involved in such studies. Others claim that the only reason doctors and dermatologists say diet has nothing to do with acne, is because they can’t sell you a healthy diet. Whilst both claims may be either true, or untrue, what is true is that whether or not diet plays a big part in the formation of acne, you can’t cure by only focusing on your diet, since acne has many other aggravators behind its formation.