The Role Our Food Plays In Eczema Suffering

When someone has a weak skin barrier and an allergy to certain foods, consuming these foods can trigger eczema flare-ups. The body perceives the allergen as a threat and reacts by releasing histamine and other inflammatory molecules. 

If the inflammatory response is strong enough, it becomes systemic and travels to the skin, where a weakened skin barrier is affected, resulting in itching, redness, and inflammation. For more information, see our article on allergies.

The gut lining is the interface between your body and the foods you eat. It must absorb the nutrients you rely on for survival while preventing toxic substances and pathogens from entering the body. 

Leaky gut occurs when the intestinal tract is damaged, allowing undesirable matter to enter the body.^{(IMU 2020)} This can trigger an immune response that becomes systemic, and combined with a weakened skin barrier, an eczema flare can occur.^{(APA 2023)(CLA 2016)(HHP)(FIS 2012)}

Processed foods and drinks often contain artificial ingredients and preservatives that can be harmful to the body. These chemicals can trigger an immune response, leading to eczema flare-ups.

Preservatives such as nitrates and sulfites are used in foods to prevent microbial growth and extend their shelf life. They can induce dermatitis and hives, among several other health conditions.^{(VAL 2012)} 

The liver plays a vital role in filtering toxins from the body, but when it becomes overburdened with toxins, it can't function properly. This can lead to inflammation and other health problems, including eczema.

Fat metabolism plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health, and any disruption in this process can contribute to skin issues, including eczema. 

High levels of omega-6 fats in the blood have been linked to the onset of eczema.^{(FIS 2012)} Modern western diets tend to be rich in omega-6 fats, which are commonly found in vegetable oils, processed foods, and some nuts and seeds. On the other hand, these diets are often lacking in omega-3 fats, which are found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Omega-3 fats have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help counteract the pro-inflammatory effects of omega-6 fats.

Trans fats, found in some processed foods and partially hydrogenated oils, are another type of fat that can negatively affect eczema. These highly reactive fats can interfere with enzymes in the body, disrupting the healthy balance of essential fatty acids and contributing to inflammation. Limiting or eliminating trans fats from your diet can help improve eczema symptoms and overall skin health.

Additionally, a high intake of saturated fats can influence hormone levels, which can, in turn, lead to eczema flare-ups. Saturated fats are typically found in animal products such as meat, butter, and full-fat dairy, as well as some plant-based oils like coconut oil and palm oil. Reducing saturated fat intake and opting for healthier sources of fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts, can contribute to better hormone balance and improved eczema management.

Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, contain lactose which more than 40% of eczema sufferers are sensitive to.^{(FIS 2012)} If an individual is iron deficient, dairy has been shown to damage the gut lining and contribute towards leaky gut.^{(FIS 2012)} 

However, consumption of dairy products such as milk, yogurt and kefir (a fermented yogurt) has been shown to improve the gut microbiome.^{(ASL 2020)} If there is no sensitivity to dairy, it can be beneficial to consume dairy products. 

Some fermented foods can be high in histamines.^{(FIS 2012)} In the body, histamines lead to itchiness and redness among other things.

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. For some people, gluten can trigger an immune response and lead to eczema symptoms. In others, consumption of glutenous foods increases gut permeability.^{(KHO 2020)}

Sugar, when contained within a fiber matrix (like a raw apple), is not in itself bad. Processed foods, or refined products like apple sauce or juice, contain “free sugar” which is outside a fiber matrix.

Sugar when consumed outside of fiber is associated with inflammation and liver disease.^{(KHO 2020)(MA 2022)} 

Sugar can also break down collagen, one of the building blocks of healthy skin. 

Additionally, sugar and artificial sweeteners can disrupt gut health and contribute to the growth of harmful bacteria leading to systemic inflammation.

Other common food allergens, such as eggs, soy, and nuts, can trigger eczema symptoms in some individuals. Nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes and eggplants, and spicy foods may also trigger eczema symptoms. Brewers yeast has been shown to flare eczema.^{(FIS 2012)} 

^{(FIS 2012)(COM 2020)} 

Dietary sulfites have been shown to induce dermatitis and hives, among several other health conditions.^{(VAL 2012)} 

For more information, check out our allergies and intolerances page.

Keeping a food journal can help you track which foods you consume and when eczema symptoms occur. This can help you identify potential food triggers that may be exacerbating your symptoms.

Generally, symptoms increasing may be related to the food consumed up to 48 hours prior.

If you suspect that you may have a food allergy, allergy testing can help you determine which foods you should avoid. Allergy testing can be done through blood tests, skin tests, or elimination diets.

An elimination diet involves removing potential food triggers from your diet for a period of time, then gradually reintroducing them one by one to determine which ones are causing eczema symptoms.