How Your Eating Habits May Affect Your Skin

Your diet may be the culprit of your breakouts.

Eating foods that are better for you will not only help you too look how you want to look on your big day, but the habit will also help your skin feel more radiant!

By Emily Lasnier

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Photo: Honey Honey Photography

Even if you’re not trying to lose weight for your wedding – which we fully support, by the way – it can still be a good idea to watch what you eat. Not only for your overall health, but also for your skin! It turns out that there are certain foods and beverages that can cause you to breakout. We asked Dr. David Lortscher, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of personalized skincare company Curology, what foods to avoid, as well as what to eat instead. Distressed to see your favorites on the list? Well, you can always just avoid it for the months prior to your wedding so you look your best and then make sure to be diligent with your skincare after tying the knot. 

what foods to avoid to prevent acne, foods to stop eating for clearer skin

Photo by Honey Honey Photography

- “Bad” carbs and sugars. As you eat carbohydrates, especially sugar, your blood sugar levels increase and your pancreas responds by releasing insulin. Insulin-like growth factor production is stimulated, which increases oil production and leads to more inflammation and increased acne severity. Instead, stock up on “good” carbs (low Glycemic Index foods, such as whole grains, leafy veggies, and berries), and avoid sugary foods and drinks.

- Dairy. Milk contains precursors to testosterone and other androgens, which influence the hormone receptors in the skin to turn on the process that causes acne. Although the mechanism is unclear, the association with acne is marked more with skim milk than with whole milk and in those consuming more than three portions per week. It is possible that cheese, ice cream, and yogurt may be associated with acne, but the link appears to be stronger with milk. Try eliminating dairy for two weeks to several months in order to see how your skin reacts. 

- Whey protein supplements. These can have similar effects on the skin as drinking too much milk, as they also trigger insulin release from the pancreas. If you are using supplements because you are trying to build muscle before your wedding, try to instead refocus your diet on protein-rich foods.

Discover how to get rid of blemishes overnight and six healthy habits to get into before your wedding. 

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