Eczema is a general term for itchy, dry skin conditions and the most common is atopic eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. According to the NHS, atopic eczema causes the skin to become itchy, dry, cracked and sore. “Some people only have small patches of dry skin, but others may experience widespread inflamed skin all over the body,” explains the health body.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for atopic dermatitis but treatments aim to ease the symptoms.
Avoiding anything that triggers your eczema flare ups is a hard and fast rule and some people have found this to be an effective dietary strategy.
In fact, the prevalence of patients with atopic dermatitis making dietary modifications has prompted research into the benefits of doing so.
In one notable study, one hundred and sixty nine atopic dermatitis patients were surveyed.
The 61-question survey asked about dietary modifications, perceptions and outcomes.
Eighty seven percent of participants reported a trial of dietary exclusion.
The most common were junk foods (68 percent), dairy (49.7 percent) and gluten (49 percent).
According to the findings, the best improvement in skin was reported when removing white flour products.
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White flour products give a lighter texture to muffins, cakes and cookies and a flakier crust to pies and pastries, according to medical website LiveStrong.
“Also called refined flour, white flour has had many of its nutrients and most of its fibre removed during processing, the health body said.
The survey also found that people reported improvements in their skin when excluding gluten and nightshades.
Potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants are all common nightshades.
What’s more, 79.9 percent of participants reported adding items to their diet.
The most common were vegetables (62.2 percent), fish oil (59.3 percent) and fruits (57.8 percent).
The best improvement in skin was noted when adding vegetables, organic foods and fish oil.
According to the NHS, you should not make significant changes to your diet without first speaking to a GP.
“It may not be healthy to cut these foods from your diet, especially in young children who need the calcium, calories and protein from these foods,” says the health body.
As it explains, if a GP suspects a food allergy, you may be referred to a dietitian (a specialist in diet and nutrition).
They can help to work out a way to avoid the food you’re allergic to while ensuring you still get all the nutrition you need.
Alternatively, you may be referred to a hospital specialist, such as an immunologist, dermatologist or paediatrician, adds the NHS.
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