A recent study has found that the Mediterranean diet, combined with omega-3 supplementation, can positively impact skin health, particularly in managing acne.
According to a report from Health Chosun, researchers from Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich, Germany, followed 60 adults undergoing acne treatment over 16 weeks. The participants were not given any acne medications during the study, and most were found to be deficient in omega-3 fatty acids.
Throughout the 16 weeks, participants followed a Mediterranean diet and took omega-3 supplements. The research team divided the participants’ acne lesions into different levels of clinical severity and took blood samples to assess their overall condition.
The results were promising: acne severity improved in 42 out of the 60 participants. Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions decreased, and facial sebum production, often linked to acne flare-ups, was reduced.
Dr. Anne Guertler, a dermatologist at Ludwig Maximilian University and the study’s lead researcher, noted that the findings confirm the effectiveness of dietary interventions in acne management. She highlighted the Mediterranean diet and omega-3 supplements as particularly beneficial, suggesting they could reduce the reliance on prescription medications for treating acne.
The research team found that the anti-inflammatory effects of the Mediterranean diet and omega-3s helped lower the body’s overall inflammation levels and regulate the hormones responsible for increased sebum production. These factors play a crucial role in improving acne.
Acne is typically caused by an overproduction of sebum, which is influenced by hormonal changes, clogged pores from dead skin cells, and inflammation triggered by bacteria such as Cutibacterium.
Dr. Victoria Billero, a dermatologist at Tufts University School of Medicine, explained that various factors make the skin more susceptible to acne, including hormones, stress, lifestyle, gut microbiome health, and immune function. She emphasized that diet is crucial in influencing all of these factors.
Dr. Dendy Engelman, a dermatologist based in the UK, advises that improving skin health can be achieved by increasing the intake of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, which are abundant in antioxidants and fiber. She recommends pairing carbohydrates with healthy fats such as avocado, fish, olive oil, and nuts. Additionally, she suggests limiting highly processed foods and maintaining good hydration levels.
In summary, the Mediterranean diet is based on whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and olive oil while limiting the intake of meat and dairy products. Omega-3s in fish help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are important for maintaining clear skin.
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