The skin is your largest organ. With that in mind, it makes sense
that a nutritious diet which benefits brain and heart function would
also maximize skin health. Antioxidant-rich berries, cruciferous
veggies, omega 3 fatty acids, and foods with a low glycemic index can
lead to glowing, radiant skin. But what about dairy? Sometimes an issue
for the digestive system, but good for bone health, dairy lies in
nutritional purgatory, waiting for a final judgment to be rendered. So
what does science tell us about dairy and your skin?
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Chocolate and greasy foods are the historical villains when it comes
to acne. Recently, however, milk and gluten have taken center stage as
the bigger pimple perpetrators. A May 2016 American Academy of Dermatology study
showed that indeed, dairy may be contributing to acne. Researchers
asked over 200 people between 14 and 19 years old about their diets.
Turns out, people with acne consumed more low-fat and skim milk than
those with no acne. But researchers found no association between acne
and full-fat milk or total dairy intake.
This conclusion is consistent with earlier studies, but the authors were transparent that an association
like this does not always equal causation. They noted the study had
limitations such as the random timing of telephone calls and the need to
rely on people's estimation of serving size.
[post_ads]Why
may full-fat dairy be better for preventing blemishes? Although milk
fat contains saturated fats, it also has other fatty acids that promote a
healthy metabolism and decrease insulin resistance. Dairy fat also
contains multiple fatty acids that help your metabolism, but the insulin
levels are key when it comes to acne control. The speculation is that
when insulin spikes, the sebaceous glands are stimulated, causing
breakouts. If full-fat milk prevents this rise, then pimples are less
likely to form.
So should you cut out skim milk? If you're struggling with acne, it's
not advisable to start eliminating food or drink prior to consulting
with a dermatologist. Although there seems to be growing scientific data
that skim milk may be associated with more breakouts, there needs to be
additional evidence confirming that stopping its consumption leads to
clear skin. That being said, your doctor may suggest cutting down on
low-fat milk as part of a more comprehensive treatment plan.
