Blue light is one of the best natural acne treatments available. It works by destroying acne bacteria on and just under the skin. But how can you prevent acne from ever developing in the first place? A recent Australian study shows your diet may have a lot to do with it.
50% Less Acne in 12 Weeks With a Change in Diet Alone
In the study, as reported in the 2007 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, half the young men were given a high protein, low GL (Glycemic Load) diet. The others were instructed to eat a typical Western teenage diet, heavy on sugar and processed foods.
After 12 weeks, those following the high protein, low GL diet had over a 50% reduction of acne lesions.
Proper Diet Gets to The Cause of Acne
So, a low GL diet gets right to a major cause of acne: hormone imbalance. Meals and snacks with a low GL keep insulin under control, which helps with general hormone balance, which naturally reduces oil production in the skin, and which leads to less breakouts. You will also likely lose weight and save money following a high protein, low GL diet.
“The research clearly shows that your daily diet can improve acne symptoms. This is highly significant and contrary to current recommendations that say that what you eat plays no role in acne. A healthy diet with low GI carbohydrates and higher levels of protein is now the first line of treatment for anyone suffering from acne, in addition to any cream or ointment your dermatologist recommends. When used for acne in its early stages or for mild to moderate cases, this may mean up to 100 per cent improvement in symptoms.”
Catherine Saxelby, Accredited Practicing Dietitian
More Research
Does diet really affect acne?
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20361171
Evidence for acne-promoting effects of milk and other insulinotropic dairy products. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21335995
Acne – A Disease of Western Civilization
Recommended Reading
The Teenage Anti-Acne Diet Booklet – The doctors who did this study created this booklet to help parents implement a high protein, low GL diet for their teenagers. It is an excellent publication, and it’s free for download, right now.
Practical Paleo – down to earth, easy to follow guide to eating right, with real-life recipes, all beautifully illustrated. A must have.
