As early as the 1920s, chocolate was believed to have a negative effect on the skin. From the 1930s to the 1960s, people were convinced that diet had a direct connection with acne. Although studies at the time were unable to provide concrete proof of this assumption, researchers were still fascinated by the subject.
Affected patients described the same experiences over and over again. After the increased consumption of dairy products, sugar and carbohydrate-containing foods, they increasingly had to struggle with blemished skin.
Causes of skin blemishes
And indeed, there is a reason for this: the so-called high-glycemic carbohydrates in unhealthy foods are quickly broken down by the body and cause a rapid rise in blood sugar. Consequently, more insulin is produced in the pancreas. Insulin indirectly stimulates IGF-1 growth hormone release, which in turn stimulates excess sebum production (seborrhea) and hyperkeratosis. Hyperkeratosis is the overproduction of cells that leads to keratinization of the skin and clogging of the sebaceous glands. Both processes can be the cause of skin blemishes.
Although there are still many unanswered questions in research, it can be assumed that in patients who are prone to acne, it is promoted by sweet foods. So the good news is: most pimples will disappear again if you give up chocolate and unhealthy foods for the next few weeks after snacking.
What should you not eat?
Avoid so-called "fast carbohydrates" with a high glycemic index such as:
- White sugar
- Potatoes
- corn
- white rice
- wheat pasta
- boiled beet
- white bread
- fast food
- sugared drinks
- sweets
- Milk chocolate and pastries
- bananas
- grapes
- Kiwi
- Dried fruit
- Alcohol
- Sweet desserts
What can I eat?
The following foods, among others, are rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation and vitamins that speed up the healing process.
- Whole grain products
- Fruits with low sugar content (e.g. berries)
- Vegetables
- Legumes (e.g. beans, chickpeas and lentils)
- Dark chocolate (with a high percentage of cocoa)
- Cabbage
- Broccoli
- Flaxseed
- Walnuts and hazelnuts
- Avocado
