Connection Between Body Weight and Eczema Flare-ups Examined?
Weight loss, particularly for those who are overweight or obese, may offer potential benefits for people suffering from eczema, a common skin condition that affects a large number of adults in the United States each year.
A study involving 40 people with eczema found that those who participated in a weight loss program consisting of aerobic exercise or a calorie-restricted diet generally experienced significant improvement in eczema symptoms [1]. However, it's important to note that the evidence supporting certain diets to relieve eczema symptoms is inconclusive.
While no single diet has been proven to cure eczema, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet such as the Mediterranean diet—which limits added sugars, processed foods, saturated, and trans fats—may help reduce symptoms [1]. Common dietary recommendations for eczema often involve avoiding personal trigger foods, such as dairy, gluten, sugar, alcohol, citrus, eggs, and tomatoes [1][4].
Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, probiotics, and possibly vitamin B6 may also support skin health and reduce eczema-related inflammation [2][4][3]. However, it's crucial for individuals with eczema to consult dermatologists or dietitians before making significant dietary changes or starting supplements, to ensure nutritional balance and avoid overly restrictive diets [1][4].
Regarding exercise, regular physical activity can aid in weight management and reduce systemic inflammation, which might indirectly benefit eczema. However, it's essential to manage sweating and skin irritation during exercise to prevent flare-ups. Loose cotton clothing may be a better option for eczema-prone skin during exercise, and moisturizing before and after exercise can help prevent the skin from drying out [1].
Exercising in a cool, ventilated space can help prevent eczema symptoms. Drying excess sweat and taking frequent breaks during exercise can help prevent overheating and eczema flare-ups. Hot water can be harsh on the skin, so it is best to take a quick, warm shower and use products that are safe for sensitive skin after exercising [1].
It's also worth noting that humidity can be a trigger for eczema symptoms in some people, while others may experience more symptoms in cold weather. People living in areas with high levels of pollution may experience flare-ups in eczema symptoms after exercising outdoors [1].
In people with light skin, the affected areas may appear red, but on dark skin, eczema can cause darker brown, purple, or gray patches [1]. Cold compression wraps can help cool the skin and reduce itching during exercise [1].
The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends speaking with a healthcare professional if food allergies are suspected as a cause or worsener of eczema symptoms [1]. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity can help prevent the skin from drying out [1].
It's essential to remember that the link between eczema and excess body weight is suggested, and eczema can affect anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, and sex [1].
In summary, weight loss achieved through a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet and regular exercise may help improve eczema symptoms, but recommendations must be individualized based on personal triggers and overall health [1][4].
References: [1] American Academy of Dermatology Association. (2020). Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment. [2] Harvard Health Publishing. (2019). Eczema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. [3] National Eczema Association. (2020). Diet and Nutrition. [4] Mayo Clinic. (2019). Eczema: Symptoms and causes.
- For those with eczema, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet like the Mediterranean diet might help reduce symptoms, as it limits added sugars, processed foods, and certain fats.
- Common dietary recommendations for eczema include avoiding personal trigger foods such as dairy, gluten, sugar, alcohol, citrus, eggs, and tomatoes.
- Certain supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, probiotics, and possibly vitamin B6 may support skin health and reduce eczema-related inflammation.
- It's crucial for individuals with eczema to consult a dermatologist or dietitian before making significant dietary changes or starting supplements.
- Regular physical activity aids in weight management and can indirectly benefit eczema, but managing sweating and skin irritation during exercise is essential to prevent flare-ups.
- The American Academy of Dermatology Association advises speaking with a healthcare professional if food allergies are suspected as a cause or worsener of eczema symptoms.
