Eat More of This if You Want Less Acne

If you're struggling with acne, you’re probably no stranger to countless skin care products and routines. However, if you have chronic acne, you may find to your frustration that they don't work for you. 

In many cases, the key to clearer skin starts within. If a hormonal imbalance is causing your acne, skin care products may resolve your acne temporarily or not at all.

Hormonal imbalance is a leading cause of acne. Treating it, especially through your nutritional choices, can make a world of difference.

At ARA Integrative and Functional Medicine in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, Dr. Rina Kapoor and our team see firsthand how much of a difference the food you eat can make when dealing with acne and hormonal imbalance. 

In this article, we break down what foods can help balance your hormones, leading to clearer, acne-free skin. 

What causes acne?

A severe acne flare-up is often your body's way of telling you something isn't quite right, especially with your hormones.

While clogged pores and oily skin can cause you to break out, a hormonal imbalance can prompt your skin to produce excess sebum and become inflamed, triggering acne. 

Understanding that what goes on inside your body can affect your skin is crucial when looking for a long-term and effective treatment for your acne. An excellent place to start is with the foods you eat. 

What foods can help with acne?

You may already be familiar with foods to avoid when dealing with acne. Processed foods, fried foods, and drinks like soda all contribute to triggering or worsening your acne. 

Here we look at foods that can make a positive difference in balancing your hormones and alleviating your acne. These include: 

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish (like salmon) and flaxseeds. These essential fats help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin health.

Antioxidant-rich foods

Antioxidants are present in many fruits and vegetables. Berries, leafy greens, and colorful veggies are packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals, improving your hormonal balance and leading to healthier skin.

Probiotics

There's a link between gut health and hormones. Probiotics, found in yogurt and fermented foods like kimchi, promote a healthy gut microbiome, positively impacting your hormone levels and acne.

Whole grains

Unstable blood sugar levels can knock your hormones out of whack. Adding whole grains like quinoa and brown rice to your diet helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.

Water

Water is a simple yet powerful fix for hormonal balance. Staying hydrated supports your body's natural detoxification processes, flushing out toxins that may contribute to hormonal disruptions and acne.

How we can help

If you're looking for acne-free skin, it may be time to shift your focus from external solutions to internal nourishment. At ARA Integrative and Functional Medicine, we believe in tackling acne and hormonal imbalances from the inside out. 

Including hormone-balancing foods in your diet is a proactive step toward clearer, acne-free skin. If you suspect you're dealing with a hormonal imbalance, Dr. Kapoor can map out a personalized treatment plan and guide you through the best foods to eat and avoid. 

Book an appointment online today or call our Philadelphia-area office at 610-358-3300.