In a recent study published in the journal nutrients, Researchers are reviewing existing publications to determine the role of nutrition in the development of acne vulgaris. To achieve this goal, we investigated a variety of factors to elucidate how diet influences biochemical markers, gene transcription associated with sebaceous gland function, bacterial proliferation, and inflammation associated with acne. Complex interactions were studied.
study: Effects of diet and nutrition on acne vulgaris patients. Image credit: maxbelchenko / Shutterstock.com
What causes acne?
Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that primarily affects adolescents and young adults. It affects 80-100% of people between the ages of 11 and 30 and affects approximately 9% of the world’s population. The complex etiology of acne vulgaris involves genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors.
Acne presents with inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions such as papules, pustules, and comedones, and various clinical forms are classified depending on the severity of the lesions. Microcalcifications are caused by hormonal disorders, sebum secretion, Cutibacterium Acne proliferation, abnormal keratosis.
Severe acne can cause scarring and hyperpigmentation, greatly impacting the health and quality of life of those affected. The influence of diet on the development of acne is currently being studied, along with new therapeutic approaches to reduce symptoms and improve patient outcomes.
The role of food in the development of acne vulgaris
Due to dietary differences, a higher prevalence of acne has been observed in Western populations than in non-Western populations. The Western diet, which is primarily characterized by low levels of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and high intakes of refined carbohydrates, dairy, chocolate, and saturated fat, promotes inflammation and alters metabolic cues. can make acne worse.
More specifically, saturated fatty acids in the Western diet induce inflammation through the expression of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)/interleukin 1B (IL-1B) receptors, thereby increasing the secretion of IL-17A. causes an increase and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes.
Diets with a high glycemic index (GI) and high intake of dairy products are also associated with increased levels of hormones involved in the development of acne, such as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and insulin. Masu. Hyperinsulinemia caused by a high-GI diet stimulates IGF-1 synthesis in the liver, which subsequently promotes sebocyte proliferation and adipogenesis. Insulin and IGF-1 lead to activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), which promotes sebaceous gland hypertrophy, lipid synthesis, and keratinocyte proliferation, contributing to acne development.
Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota caused by abnormal diet further exacerbates the pathogenesis of acne through dysregulation of the mTOR pathway and increased permeability of the intestinal barrier. Overall, diet plays an important role in the development of acne by influencing hormone levels, inflammation, and the composition of the gut microbiome.
Nutrients that may have a negative effect on acne
Milk and dairy products, especially those high in whey protein and casein, are associated with increased IGF-1 levels, which can lead to hyperinsulinemia and worsening of acne lesions. Milk also contains a hormone precursor that is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a powerful acne inducer. Although conflicting data exist regarding the fat content of milk and its role in acne, it has been suggested that the hormones and bioactive molecules present in milk are the more important culprit.
Consumption of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is associated with worsening acne symptoms. The presence of sugars in chocolate can induce insulin secretion and trigger signaling pathways that promote acne lesions. Cocoa ingredients can also increase the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, which can further worsen acne.
Saturated and trans fatty acids from animal fats and hydrogenated vegetable fats have also been implicated in the development of acne. These fats can stimulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activate signaling pathways such as mTORC1, leading to increased sebum production and skin inflammation.
Other dietary factors such as alcohol intake, excessive salt intake, and high GI foods such as salty snacks, eggs, soft drinks, corn, candy, and high-gluten diets are also associated with worsening acne.
conclusion
Acne vulgaris has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life and health, highlighting the importance of understanding its contributing factors and implementing effective treatments. Previously, dietary factors were not widely recognized as major contributors to acne, but increasing scientific evidence supports their role in pathogenesis.
Dairy products, chocolate, and saturated fats have been identified as major dietary components that contribute to the development of acne. Other factors can also worsen acne, such as alcohol, salted products, gluten, eggs, biscuits, corn, fruit, sweets, and soft drinks. However, further research is needed to confirm its impact.
Future studies should be designed with great care to avoid limitations and provide accurate insights into the effects of diet on acne. Knowledge of dietary factors that negatively influence acne development allows clinicians to make appropriate recommendations, including elimination diets, to reduce acne lesions and improve the quality of life of acne vulgaris patients. We will be able to provide you with information and guidance.
Reference magazines:
- Ryguła, I., Pikiewicz, W., and Kaminiow, K. (2024). The influence of diet and nutrition in acne vulgaris patients. nutrients 16(10);1476. doi:10.3390/nu16101476.
