What Foods Cause Acne Breakouts?

Acne breakouts can be a result of many factors, from hormone changes to medicines, stress, and poor diet. While a lot of these triggers are under study, there are a few foods that may worsen acne breakouts, suggests Dr. Rana.

Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese stimulate the body to produce insulin-like hormones that trigger acne. And milk proteins such as whey can also make the skin more vulnerable to breakouts, she adds.

1. Dairy Products

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when pores are clogged with sebum oil and dead skin cells, which allow bacteria to multiply. These bacteria create inflammation in the pore, which results in the formation of a pimple.

Dairy products are a common culprit for acne breakouts. They may be more inflammatory than other foods that can trigger acne, such as gluten or fruit.

If you suspect that dairy is to blame for your acne, try eliminating it for a few months and see how your skin reacts. Or schedule a food sensitivity test to find out exactly which dairy products are causing your acne breakouts.

If you are still struggling to get rid of acne, consider switching to plant-based milk. Goat milk is a good option because it contains 89% less Alpha s1 Casein protein, which causes allergy symptoms in some people.

2. Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is a healthy snack that provides a nutrient-dense source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it’s also high in sugar, so it’s important to consume it in moderation.

Dried fruits are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits in, but be sure to choose unsweetened varieties. Sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, and molasses can add unnecessary calories and fats.

“Dried fruits should be dry enough to prevent microbial growth and subsequent spoilage,” Shapiro says. To test for dryness, remove a few pieces of dried fruit and let cool to room temperature. If they are leathery and pliable, they’re dry. Click Here

3. White Bread

There are many foods that can cause acne breakouts but one of the most common culprits is white bread. This food is a very high glycemic index item and raises your blood sugar levels quickly, which can trigger the release of hormones that cause acne.

Another problem with white bread is that it has lots of preservatives and chemicals in it. These chemicals can clog your pores and cause breakouts, as well as increase inflammation in your skin.

It is important to avoid processed white bread and opt for a 100% whole wheat option instead. You can find these at your local supermarket.

4. White Rice

White rice has a high glycemic index, which can increase blood sugar levels and cause inflammation. This, in turn, triggers an exaggerated release of insulin, which increases the production of oil and causes pimples to form, explains Dr. Bowe.

However, if you choose to eat white rice, be sure to opt for enriched varieties that are fortified with additional nutrients. These include folate, iron, and thiamine.

Another key nutrient you’ll find in white rice is phosphorus, which helps keep your body’s cells functioning properly. It also plays a key role in bone health, says Chou.

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to white rice, try wild or brown rice instead. These varieties are packed with more nutrients and can help you meet your calorie goals while fueling your body properly, according to registered dietitian Beth Czerwony.

5. Fruit Juice

Acne breakouts happen when a pore is clogged with dead skin, sebum (oil), and bacteria. These substances then clump together and form a whitehead, blackhead, or another form of acne.

The reason for this is that your oil glands make more sebum than they need to keep the surface of your skin lubricated. But when that extra oil is clogged in your pores, it can cause acne, says board-certified dermatologist Jeanine Downie, MD.

The most obvious culprits of breakouts are foods that irritate your skin or cause it to produce more oil. But other factors, like stress and certain products you might be using, can also trigger breakouts.