What is eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition that is characterised by inflammation, redness and itchiness. The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema. Skin will become dry and may even become sore and cracked. It can affect the whole body but the most likely culprits are the hands, back of knees, inside of elbows, face and scalp.
What causes eczema?
Eczema occurs when the function of the skin barrier becomes compromised. This barrier is called the natural moisture factor. It may be affected by:
The use of harsh skin care products.
• Over exfoliation.
• Harsh peels.
• UV damage.
• Low fat diets.
• Stress.
What can I do to improve eczema?
• Use gentle skin care products. Visit a reputable skin clinic for advice.
• Avoid perfumed products.
• Eat a healthy balanced diet.
• Use mindfulness techniques to avoid stress.
What foods might trigger eczema?
Some foods are associated with triggering eczema break outs. They are often considered to be common allergens.
• Cows milk
• Eggs
• Gluten
• Nuts
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Soy
Other foods may also cause a response such as tomatoes, citrus and certain spices.If you suffer from eczema and would like to see if avoiding these foods we recommend trying an elimination diet by cutting the listed foods out one at a time to identify if they are contributing to your condition. We always advise that you get advice from your doctor, who might also suggest an allergy test.
Which foods may help to nourish skin to reduce symptoms of eczema?
Probiotics
There is evidence to show that a healthy immune system will help to improve overall wellbeing and have an effect on your skin too. Having a healthy digestive system with a diverse range of bacteria in the gut can help to boost the immune system. There is evidence to show that eating probiotic foods to promote gut bacteria may be effective in combating eczema. There are many probiotic supplements available, however it is also beneficial to add probiotic foods to your diet. Add foods such as yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh and kombucha to your diet.
Eat wholegrain
Sugar has been linked to rising obesity levels, it is also one of the guilty parties in the increased number of eczema sufferers. Eating a diet high sugar and refined carbohydrates leads to increased insulin levels which causes inflammation within the body. Replace refined sugars with fruits and eat wholegrain with plenty of fresh vegetables.
Increase your zinc intake
Zinc is particularly beneficial for many skin conditions. You can improve your zinc levels by introducing red meat, dark chocolate, seafood and pumpkin seeds. Collagen Shots can provide your daily intake of zinc.
How Flavanoids can help to beat eczema
Flavanoids are plant nutrients that often give our fruits and vegetables their radiant rich colours, for example the deep reds in berries and vibrant orange in carrots. These plant molecules are associated with many health benefits and one of those benefits is the rebalance of the immune system. Studies suggest that these super potent nutrients reduce the histamine release and boost the skins ability to fight infection.
Research has shown that many different flavonoids especially quercetin has proven to be particularly effective and it can be found in high amounts in red onions.
Omega 3 to nourish the skin?
Omega 3 can help to minimise skin irritations; it can help to reduce overall inflammation in the body that leads to itching. Omega 3 is a combination of DHA and EPA and it is the EPA that helps to ‘waterproof’ skin cells by boosting the cell membrane. This in turn moisturises the skin from the inside out. Traditionally the best source of Omega 3 was from oily fish, however Rejuvenated’s Aliol is a perfect for all dietary types as it is a totally natural vegan source of Omega 3. Aliol is formulated with the algae that the fish actually feed on.
Can a collagen supplement help eczema?
A high quality collagen supplement helps to stimulate fibroblasts which naturally promotes the synthesis of collagen. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the skin and drinking a collagen supplement will help to promote healthy skin on the outside. Find out more about how collagen can improve the quality of your skin here.
Your plan to reducing eczema
• Remove harsh skin products from your bathroom.
• De-stress. Try mindfulness and yoga.
• Remove allergens from your diet.
• Boost omega 3.
• Increase complex carbohydrates from wholegrain.
• Eat a rainbow of vegetables and fruits.
• Add Collagen Shots and Aliol to your daily routine.