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Are you tired of constantly dealing with pesky pimples? Do you find yourself scouring the internet for the latest acne treatments, only to be disappointed time and time again? Well, you may be surprised to learn that your diet could be a major factor in your skin's appearance. That's right, the foods you eat can have a significant impact on your skin, and some foods are known to be more acne-causing than others.
Now, we know what you're thinking - "Not another article telling me to give up my favourite foods!" But fear not, my friend. While it's true that some of your favourite indulgences may be contributing to your breakouts, there are also plenty of delicious and nutritious foods that can help keep your skin clear and glowing. So, before you swear off pizza and ice cream forever, let's take a closer look at some of the most common foods that cause acne.
Dairy
First up on our list of acne-causing foods is dairy. That's right, that beloved glass of milk or hunk of cheese on your sandwich may be contributing to your breakouts. Studies have shown that consuming dairy products, particularly skim milk, can increase the production of sebum, a type of oil that can clog pores and lead to acne. So, if you're prone to breakouts, it may be worth considering swapping out dairy products for non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or cashew cheese.
Whey protein
It is a popular supplement among athletes and fitness enthusiasts, but it may also be contributing to your breakouts. Whey protein contains a type of amino acid called leucine, which can stimulate the production of insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in the body. High levels of insulin and IGF-1 can lead to an increase in sebum production and inflammation, both of which can contribute to acne. Additionally, some whey protein supplements may contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which can also contribute to breakouts. If you're struggling with acne, it may be worth considering switching to a plant-based protein powder or limiting your intake of whey protein.
Chocolate
Chocolate can cause acne | Unsplash
Chocolate lovers, beware - your sweet tooth may be contributing to your breakouts. While the idea that chocolate causes acne has long been debated, there is some evidence to suggest that it may indeed be a contributing factor. Chocolate contains high levels of sugar and dairy, both of which can increase sebum production and inflammation in the body. Additionally, chocolate also contains caffeine, which can stimulate the production of cortisol, a stress hormone that can contribute to acne. If you're a chocolate fiend, it may be worth trying to limit your intake or switch to dark chocolate, which contains less sugar and dairy.
Peanut Butter
Another surprising culprit in the battle against acne is peanut butter. While peanut butter may be a staple in many of our diets, it's also a high-glycemic-index food that can cause inflammation and lead to breakouts. Additionally, peanut butter contains a type of fat called omega-6 fatty acids, which can contribute to inflammation in the body. So, while it may be tough to say goodbye to your beloved PB&J, switching to a lower-glycemic-index nut butter like almond or cashew may be worth a try.
