So you have eczema and you are wondering does food play a factor? Food is definitely a factor in regards to eczema, so what foods should you avoid? In order to control your eczema, you should avoid the following foods:
1. Wheat
2. Barley
3. Rye
4. Oats
Just the thought of walking into a bakery and the beautiful smell of freshly baked bread can make even the most hardcore fitness freak forget about their Paleo diet.
With all of the bad press, bread has received over the years, it’s no wonder we all think twice before indulging.
I think it is safe to say that we are afraid that “a moment on the lips, will leave a lifetime on the hips”, but now there’s an even more important reason to refrain, YOUR skin.
Gluten is present in many foods. Some foods that you wouldn’t even think contain gluten, indeed contain gluten. Here is my list of 5 common foods that contain gluten, but you probably did know.
| 5 Common Foods Containing Gluten |
| Hash Brown |
| Soup Bases |
| Salad Dressings |
| Frozen Dinners |
| Condiments |
My recommendation is to stay away from prepackaged and pre-prepared foods. Basically, if it comes in a box, with nutrition facts, check to make sure it doesn’t have gluten in it. If you can buy foods that don’t come in a box with nutrition facts, even better!
| Pamela’s Products Baking & Pancake Mix |
| Lakanto Classic Monk Fruit Sweetener |
| Barilla Gluten Free Elbow Macaroni |
| Schar Cookie Honeygrams |
| Schar Gluten Free Table Crackers |
LATE JULY Snacks Restaurant Style Sea Salt Thin & Crispy Tortilla Chips, |
| SkinnyPop Orignal Popcorn |
| King Arthur Flour Multipurpose Flour, Gluten-Free |
| Kikkoman Soy Sauce, Gluten Free |
Kikkoman GF Gluten Free Sauce Set (Vegetarian Oyster, Poke, Sweet Chili, Hoisin) |
* I am not sponsored by the product manufacturers. |
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, itching, and dryness. The appearance of eczema can vary depending on the individual and the stage of the condition. Here are some common characteristics and manifestations of eczema:
Redness: Eczema often presents as red or pink patches on the skin. These patches can be localized or spread over larger areas of the body.
Itching: Itching is a hallmark symptom of eczema. The affected skin may feel intensely itchy, leading to scratching, which can further irritate the skin and cause potential complications.
Dryness: Eczema-prone skin tends to be dry and may feel rough or scaly to the touch. This dryness can contribute to the overall discomfort associated with the condition.
Inflammation: Inflammation is a key feature of eczema. The affected skin may appear swollen or puffy, and it may feel warm to the touch.
Bumps or blisters: In some cases, eczema can cause small raised bumps or fluid-filled blisters. These can be particularly common in certain types of eczema, such as dyshidrotic eczema, which primarily affects the hands and feet.
Cracked skin: With severe or long-lasting eczema, the skin may become thickened, rough, and prone to cracking. This can lead to painful fissures, especially in areas that experience frequent movement or friction.
It’s important to note that eczema can appear anywhere on the body, but it often affects the face, hands, wrists, elbows, knees, and the folds of the skin, such as the inner elbows and behind the knees. The severity of symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and flare-ups may come and go periodically.
So how can eczema be treated? Eczema can be treated by refraining from all foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and oats ( not just wheat), for 1 month and seeing how your skin responds. For additional help, I’ve created some gluten-free recipes ideas for you!
For me this was life-changing. I was able to stop taking my prescription shampoos ( ketoconazole), as well as my prescription hair oil, while not being afraid to wear black.
This is by far the best eczema treatment!
Exfoliation, which involves the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, can be beneficial for many skin conditions. However, when it comes to eczema, exfoliation should be approached with caution. Here’s what you should know:
Gentle exfoliation: Eczema-prone skin is often sensitive and easily irritated. Therefore, if you decide to exfoliate, it’s crucial to choose gentle exfoliating methods and products. Avoid harsh scrubs, brushes, or exfoliants that can potentially damage the skin or worsen the eczema symptoms.
Moisturize first: Before considering exfoliation, focus on moisturizing the skin adequately. Keeping the skin well-hydrated can help improve the barrier function and reduce dryness and flaking. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin or those recommended by your dermatologist.
Consult a healthcare professional: It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, before attempting any exfoliation methods for eczema. They can assess your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations.
Patch test: If you choose to try exfoliation, perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of skin before applying any exfoliating product to larger eczema-affected areas. This helps determine whether the exfoliant causes any adverse reactions or exacerbates your symptoms.
Avoid open or inflamed areas: Do not exfoliate areas of the skin that are open, oozing, or highly inflamed. Exfoliation can further irritate these areas and delay the healing process.
**Stop if irritation
occurs: If you notice increased redness, itching, or discomfort after exfoliation, discontinue the practice immediately and consult your healthcare professional for further guidance.
Remember, eczema management primarily revolves around gentle skincare practices, maintaining skin hydration, and avoiding triggers that may worsen symptoms. Working closely with a naturopathic healthcare professional can help you develop a tailored skincare routine that suits your specific needs and reduces the risk of further irritation.
Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, itching, and dryness. Its appearance can vary from red, itchy patches to dry, scaly skin, and even blisters in some cases. While exfoliation may be beneficial for certain skin conditions, caution should be exercised when considering exfoliation for eczema-prone skin. It is essential to prioritize gentle skincare practices, adequate moisturization, and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals.
In addition to proper skincare, addressing potential triggers and making lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing eczema. One area to explore is diet. Although the relationship between diet and eczema is complex and varies from person to person, some individuals may find that certain foods can trigger or worsen their symptoms. Consider consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian experienced in working with eczema patients to help identify potential dietary triggers and develop a suitable meal plan.
Moreover, seeking the guidance of a coach who specializes in eczema can be highly beneficial. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the condition and can provide personalized advice, support, and strategies for managing eczema effectively. They can help develop a comprehensive approach that combines skincare, lifestyle modifications, and emotional well-being to improve the overall management of eczema.
Remember, managing eczema is a multifaceted process, and what works for one individual may not work for another. It is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals, including dermatologists, dietitians, and specialized coaches, to develop an individualized plan that suits your specific needs. With proper care, lifestyle modifications, and expert guidance, individuals with eczema can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
