The Connection Between Diet and Atopic Dermatitis
Is your irritated, itchy skin flare caused by the food you eat? Potentially, although food triggers are not always the reason for atopic dermatitis (AD) outbreaks. Therefore, it is crucial to receive a proper diagnosis and undergo tests to determine if your diet is truly responsible for your skin issues.
Atopic dermatitis is a persistent skin condition characterized by intermittent dry, red, flaky skin flare-ups that are intensely itchy, often disrupting sleep. It is commonly associated with allergic conditions.
In the United States, approximately 18 million individuals have atopic dermatitis. While it is more prevalent in infants and children, adults can also be affected. According to Dr. Yasmin Bhasin, an allergist in Middletown, NY, most children with AD experience fewer flare-ups over time, with some eventually ceasing entirely.
There is a likelihood that food triggers play a role in skin flares for about 30% of people with atopic dermatitis. By eliminating these specific foods from a child’s diet, approximately 75-80% of children exhibit improvement within a few weeks.
Potential food triggers for skin flare-ups may include milk, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, rice, and sesame seeds or oil. However, prior to assuming that any food group is causing skin flares, it is advisable to consult with an allergist or dermatologist, who will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, medical history review, and relevant tests to identify food triggers.
If skin tests yield positive results, the subsequent step involves eliminating those foods from the diet for up to 6 weeks. If this approach proves ineffective, managing skin flare-ups with moisturizing creams, prescription medications, or oral antihistamines may provide relief from itching and promote better sleep.
Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions
Dr. Jessica Hui, a pediatric allergist at National Jewish Health in Denver specializing in atopic dermatitis and food allergies, highlights the importance of clarifying misconceptions surrounding skin rashes and allergic reactions. It is crucial to differentiate between atopic dermatitis symptoms and true food allergies to make informed dietary choices.
Before jumping to conclusions and preemptively removing specific foods from your diet, it is essential to understand the nuances of atopic dermatitis and how it relates to food consumption. By seeking professional guidance from experts in the field, individuals can make informed decisions to manage their skin condition effectively.
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