11 Seemingly Healthy Foods That Can Cause Acne and Bad Skin ...

By Heather

11 Seemingly Healthy Foods That Can Cause Acne and Bad Skin ...

If you’re into health food like me, chances are you like to eat foods that can enhance the skin, but what you may not know is that many health foods that are good for you are actually foods that cause acne as well. I know, I know; can we ever truly eat the right thing without someone finding something wrong with it? I completely understand how dreadfully exhausting it can be to try to eat the right thing. During my journey to healthy eating, I also learned how foods can affect my skin, and how even healthy foods that cause acne could be preventing me from looking and feeling my best. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t eat these foods ever again. In fact, the opposite is true; you should eat them, however they should be part of a well balanced diet, and not eaten in excess. The following foods that cause acne are rich in certain minerals and nutrients that, eaten too frequently, can cause flare-ups in the skin. Read on to find out what foods may be giving you those pimples that just won’t seem to go away no matter what.

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1

Salsa

Salsa is one of my absolute favorite foods, but also one of the top foods that cause acne. Salsa contains so many healthy ingredients, and is virtually a calorie-free condiment in my book, with only 20 calories per serving. It is a good source of fiber due to the abundance of veggies it contains and it tastes incredible! Yet, salsa is also acidic, since it contains tomatoes and vinegar, two ingredients that tend to break skin out if eaten regularly, or in large quantities. Tomatoes are one of my favorite foods and I do love to eat them, however if I eat them several days in a row, or eat salsa several days in a row, I will break out like a teenager going through puberty. Enjoy salsa once or twice a week, but if you’re prone to breakouts or suffering from acne now, then be sure to watch your intake and see if it improves. You can also sub in hummus as another low calorie dip and spread, which contains nutrients that actually fight acne, such as healthy B vitamins and selenium found in chickpeas.

2

Greek Yogurt

Who doesn’t love Greek yogurt, right? I know I can’t live without the stuff in my fridge. Greek yogurt is full of protein, calcium, potassium, magnesium, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12, yet it is also a source of dairy. Dairy, no matter how healthy, can cause breakouts in certain individuals, and it all relates to hormones in the body. If you tend to be low in estrogen, then eating dairy may not break you out. However, if your body has enough estrogen, or too much, then dairy may pose a problem for you since all dairy foods contain estrogen on their own, even without added hormones in certain varieties. To prevent taking in too many hormones from dairy, I always buy organic, or no hormone added varieties such as Fage and Chobani. I find when I stick to these varieties I don’t break out, but if I consume other sources that contain added hormones, I will break out. Greek yogurt is a perfectly healthy food, but if you suffer acne, you may want to consider eating less of it or consuming nondairy sources to see if the acne dissipates.

UPD:

Greek yogurt is a popular and nutritious food that can be enjoyed by many. It is high in protein, calcium, potassium, magnesium, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12, and is a good source of dairy. However, dairy can cause breakouts in certain individuals due to the hormones present in the food. Those with low levels of estrogen may be able to tolerate dairy without breaking out, but those with higher estrogen levels may find that dairy causes breakouts. To reduce the risk of breakouts, it is important to purchase organic or no hormone added varieties of Greek yogurt, such as Fage and Chobani.

In addition to the hormones present in dairy, Greek yogurt contains natural sugars known as lactose. Lactose is a type of sugar that can be difficult for the body to digest, and can cause bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. For those who are lactose intolerant, it is important to opt for lactose-free Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives.

3

Kelp

Kelp, along with all sea veggies, is a rich source of iodine. Iodine is important for healthy thyroid function, and seaweeds can actually be some of the best foods to eat for clear skin, as long as you eat small amounts of them. When too much of a potent source of iodine is eaten, such as kelp, one of the best sources, acne can flare-up big time. In fact, a couple weeks ago, I was suffering from tons of pimples and horrible acne out of nowhere. I wasn’t eating any other foods that triggered acne, except for lots of sea veggies. I love how cleansing and energizing they are, yet they are so potent, you only need a tiny serving to make a difference. I was eating several servings a day in spirulina, kelp noodles, dulse flakes, and powdered supergreens containing the seaweeds. I happened to read an article that said an excess of iodine could cause acne. I let go of all that seaweed for a week and guess what? My skin is completely pimple free. Be sure to keep servings 3-4 times a week if you love to enjoy this food like I do, or simply cut the amount you eat in half and enjoy each day. On the other hand, if you suffer from iodine deficiency, then taking in seaweed could actually improve your skin if you don’t go overboard.

4

Shrimp

Shellfish is one of the most allergic types of food that most people don’t even realize they are sensitive to. Shrimp, crab and other sources of shellfish can cause acne if you’re sensitive to shellfish allergens. Perhaps you don’t break out in hives, but if you notice a rash or acne eruption on your skin and have eaten shellfish recently, then you may want to consider not eating shellfish to see if it improves. Shellfish is another source of iodine, which as you know now can cause acne flare-ups. Omega 3 rich fish, such as salmon, trout and halibut, seem to actually improve skin issues like acne, so consider eating more of these sources of fish instead of shellfish.

5

Whole Wheat Bread

You’re eating your whole wheat sandwiches and really feeling healthy, right? Or maybe you’re even eating the super-healthy sprouted grain bread to take things up a notch, but that pesky acne just won’t go away. Well, no matter how healthy whole wheat breads and whole grain sprouted breads are, they are still a source of gluten. Gluten is the protein developed in wheat, barley and rye, along with standard oats that aren’t certified gluten-free, and gluten can cause serious issues if you’re sensitive to it. Gluten’s problem has to do with its effect on our guts, which cause acne flare-ups. What most people don’t know is that all acne is a sign of gut-inflammation. When toxins can’t be excreted through the intestines, or too much of one type of nutrient is eaten and can’t be absorbed into the intestines, it enters our bloodstream and tries to finds its way out of the body, which ends up being through the skin. Gluten actually tears teeny, tiny holes in the intestines slowly over time, and even if you’re aren’t allergic, it can still cause skin issues and poor digestion. It can also cause stomach pain or bloating, which are both signs of an intolerance as well. If you eat wheat without any skin issues, then it probably isn’t bothering you, but if you notice breakouts, consider taking a break and getting rid of the gluten. Try switching to a gluten-free bread or gluten-free sprouted bread instead.

UPD:

Whole wheat bread is a staple in many people's diets, and it is definitely an important source of fiber and B vitamins. However, what many people don’t know is that whole wheat bread, along with other wheat-based products, contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, as well as oats that are not certified gluten-free. For those who are sensitive to gluten, it can cause serious digestive issues, including gut inflammation, which can lead to acne flare-ups.

Gluten can cause tiny holes in the intestines, leading to poor digestion and nutrient absorption. It can also cause stomach pain, bloating, and other digestive issues. If you experience breakouts after eating whole wheat bread, consider taking a break and switching to a gluten-free alternative. Gluten-free breads are made from a variety of grains, such as rice, millet, and buckwheat, and are available in both regular and sprouted varieties.

In addition to gluten-free bread, there are other dietary changes that can help reduce acne flare-ups. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.

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6

Strawberries

I adore strawberries, and all berries for that matter, and strawberries are one of the healthiest berries you can eat, unless you’re prone to acne. Strawberries are one of the best sources of Vitamin C, and though Vitamin C is touted as preventing wrinkles and enhancing the skin, it can also cause breakouts for certain individuals. Strawberries' natural fruit acids, along with their extremely high Vitamin C content, can cause flare-ups in the skin if you’re sensitive to breakouts, especially around your mouth and nose. Like tomatoes, their natural Vitamin C and acid can irritate the skin if you’re especially sensitive. Vitamin C tablets can also cause this. Rotate your berries and use blackberries, blueberries and raspberries in addition to strawberries. Even though other berries contain Vitamin C, strawberries are especially problematic due to their potent dose.

7

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is yet another one of my favorite foods, yet it also causes acne for a lot of people. This can be for a variety of reasons, depending on your personal situation. For some, the natural oils and fats can clog pores and lead to breakouts. For other people, it can be as simple as the natural allergens in peanuts that promote inflammation, gout and acne in sensitive individuals. Whatever the case, it doesn’t mean you have to give up all nut butters. Try using sunbutter, which tastes almost exactly like peanut butter, and is made from roasted sunflower seeds that actually clear acne due to their Vitamin E content. I also love raw almond butter, which is also rich in Vitamin E, protein and contains more fiber and less saturated fat than peanut butter.

UPD:

Peanut butter is a popular food, yet it can cause acne in some people. This is due to the natural oils and fats that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Peanuts also contain allergens that can trigger inflammation and gout, which can lead to acne. Fortunately, there are alternatives to peanut butter that can help clear up acne. Sunbutter is a great alternative, as it is made from roasted sunflower seeds that are rich in Vitamin E, which can help clear acne. Almond butter is another great option, as it is full of Vitamin E, protein, and fiber, and contains less saturated fat than peanut butter.

In addition to these alternatives, there are other ways to reduce the risk of acne from peanut butter. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of acne from peanut butter. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and avoiding processed foods can help reduce the risk of acne. Finally, using a non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen after eating peanut butter can help reduce the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.

8

Milk

Much like Greek yogurt, milk is another food that can cause acne. Whether or not it affects you is dependent on your hormone levels. At the same time, the research is mixed regarding the link between dairy food and acne. Low-fat milk is recommended by many doctors as a way for women to make sure they are getting enough calcium and vitamin D in their daily diets. However, if cutting it out of your diet helps your skin clear up, consider alternative options, such as spinach and salmon. You might also consider a supplement to cover your bases.

9

Spinach

Spinach might be one of healthiest foods around. It's loaded with all sorts of important nutrients, including potassium, calcium and iron, while also being low in fat and calories. However, spinach can also contain hefty doses of iodine, a nutrient that you need in trace amounts. However, too much iodine can lead to breakouts for some people. In fact, there is research backing up the fact that high iodine levels can cause pimples, so it pays to use caution if you're susceptible.

10

Seafood

You've heard plenty of research that says you should be eating several servings of fish or seafood each week. Many kinds of seafood are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support many aspects of health, including the heart and brain. Some seafoods, including shrimp, lobster, oysters and crab contain high levels of iodine, which can cause acne in the same way that eating a ton of spinach does. The bottom line is moderation. Go ahead and enjoy your favorite seafood, but don't eat pounds of it every day.

11

Nuts

Nothing makes a better snack than a handful of nuts. They are loaded with protein and healthy fats, while also being tasty and easy to eat. However, loading up on too many nuts can cause acne. This is because your body relies on a healthy ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Nuts contain a good amount of omega-6s, but not as many omega-3s, so eating huge amounts of them can alter this balance and lead to acne. You don't have to give up nuts, but you should eat them in moderation. You can also balance them by boosting your leafy green veggie intake to help fine tune your ratio.

We all know junk food like fried foods, too much sugar and alcohol can flare breakouts, but most people would never guess their healthy diet can cause the problems. The good news is balance is the key here, along with careful observation. If you notice a flare-up, enjoy less of the food and treat it as a special occasion food. There are plenty of other healthy foods that can replace the current ones you’re eating that are causing acne. Have you ever broken out with any of these healthy foods above?

This article written in collaboration with editor, Eliza Martinez

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

Half and half. Food doesn't cause acne, it's not the main cause. Hormones are. But foods can put oils in your body that makes your glands produce more oils and oil produces acne. (I'm 13 studying dermatology)

OMG I've been eating salsa for 3 days now & wondering why my face looks like this lol OMG THANKS

peanut butter really breaks me out :( i used to add it to my oatmeal every morning. Since seeing my skin breakout all the time i stopped using it and switched to almond butter :)

I love PB and salsa!!!

There's no food that can cause acne. It's a myth, like saying that chocolate makes you breakout, hormones cause acne, not food. Don't prevent yourself from eating things you like just because of a myth, everybody's different, please don't say that shrimps or peanut better cause acne just because you potentially have an allergy that causes you to rash when other girls out there would react differently to this kind of food.

i do not agree with the salsa and tomato causing acne just because of the acid factor. Yes tomatoes are acidic but they become alkaline when ingested, pretty much like most citrus fruits. They are actually alkalinizing food. And also strawberries?? seriously..?? Maybe this only happens to you, and the psychological effect.

I'm a male, 60-ish, and have fought with my skin since puberty. In some people, certain foods eaten in too large a quantity over too short a time absolutely can cause acne. It's not a myth, it's just complicated. Each person has to figure out what her or his body has trouble processing, and then eat accordingly. If you talk to enough people, you'll find that dairy (milk, yogurt) comes up most often. Members of the Nightshade plant family are maybe next in line (tomatoes, peppers, hence salsa).

Strawberry noooooooo I love strawberry too much ....

#2 Why does everyone have a different reason for why dairy breaks people out?! Some say it contains too much testosterone, others say it causes an insulin spike due to the growth hormones, while you say it contains too much estrogen?! Why does everyone have a different explanation? Also, the truth is, most dairy claims not to contain "added hormones" and/or "growth" hormones these days (even the cheap generic brands). And why do you focus on just greek yogurt? I break out from most kinds of dairy. It makes absolutely no difference whether it's organic and hormone free (although again, most dairy claims to be hormone free these days). It all gives me horrible cystic acne.

From my experience as a skin therapist specialising in skin care, we do want to stress that there are a few factors that can cause acne - we even see combinations of 2 or more reasons per client. Diet related problems are normally caused by eating too much (and too often) 'acid' forming foods (eg normally seen as bumps on forehead), hormones but so often because of using the wrong product or product that would have been ok but it has been used the wrong way. A skin consultation could be a very important tool to educate clients on the good ingredients, the how to and to personalise your skin care

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