Managing eczema and psoriasis can feel like an uphill battle. These chronic skin conditions often lead to redness, itching, inflammation, and discomfort. While medical treatments can help, lifestyle changes play a vital role in alleviating symptoms. We asked our expert Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida, if there is any promising approach to deal with this condition and he explained how the combination of sugar control, a high-protein diet, and diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) can benefit your skin and overall health.
Role of Sugar Control For Eczema And Psoriasis
Excessive sugar consumption is linked to inflammation, which can worsen eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. High blood sugar levels trigger a process called glycation, which damages collagen and elastin in the skin and leads to inflammation.
Benefits of Sugar Control
Dr Gulati shared several benefits of controlling your sugar level for eczema and psoriasis. These include:
- Reduces systemic inflammation, potentially minimising flare-ups.
- Supports healthy skin by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.
- Helps maintain a stable weight, which can positively influence skin health.
What Does A High-Protein Diet Do?
Protein is essential for repairing and maintaining healthy skin. A diet rich in high-quality protein sources can strengthen the skin barrier, which is often compromised in eczema and psoriasis patients. Experts suggest including foods such as lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu, and legumes in order to provide the amino acids your body needs.
Benefits Of A High-Protein Diet For Eczema And Psoriasis
A few benefits of a high-protein diet for eczema and psoriasis include:
- Promotes skin repair and regeneration.
- Helps balance blood sugar levels when paired with complex carbohydrates.
- Reduces cravings for sugary snacks, aiding in inflammation control.
Can Diluted Apple Cider Vinegar Help Sooth Skin?
ACV has natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. When diluted, it can serve as a gentle remedy to calm irritated skin and restore the skin’s natural pH balance.
How to Use
Here’s an expert-approved way to use it:
- Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water.
- Drink it once daily, preferably before a meal, to aid digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Alternatively, use diluted ACV as a topical solution (1 part ACV to 3 parts water) to soothe itchy skin. Test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t irritate your skin.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
A few of the many benefits of ACV are:
- Balances the skin’s pH, creating an environment less conducive to flare-ups.
- Supports gut health, which is closely linked to skin health.
- Provides a mild detox effect, helping your body eliminate toxins that may trigger inflammation.
Adopting these three habits can work synergistically to improve eczema and psoriasis symptoms. If you wish to integrate them into your daily routine, “Cut back on added sugars by choosing natural sweeteners like honey or stevia and avoiding sugary beverages. Plan high-protein meals with a balance of healthy fats and fibre-rich vegetables and start your day with a diluted ACV drink to kickstart your metabolism and support your skin from within,” Dr Gulati recommended.
A Word of Caution
While these strategies can help, consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or skincare routine. Eczema and psoriasis triggers vary from person to person, and what works for one individual may not work for another.
Bottomline
Managing eczema or psoriasis requires a wide approach. Hence, by focusing on sugar control, a high-protein diet, and incorporating diluted apple cider vinegar, you can take meaningful steps toward healthier skin and overall well-being. Give these strategies a try, and tell us here if you witness any long-term results.