Acne Vulgaris - The diabetes of skin?
September 2, 2010
Paula Simpson, B.A.Sc., R.N.C.P.Categories: Trend Watch
Diet plays an important role to play in many skin disorders, and when it comes to nutritional advice I am frequently asked about the “Acne- Diet” connection.
Acne is by far the most common skin disease and is increasingly affecting both adolescents and adults in North America. Clinical evidence suggests nutrient imbalances in Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Zinc, Selenium, Chromium, Folic acid, Omega 3 fatty acids, low blood antioxidant levels and insulin insensitivity may be linked to the progression and severity of acne vulgaris. It is also proposed certain foods can “trigger” an inflammatory response in the body which is thought to aggravate the acne condition. As studies continue to build, experts are beginning to refocus their efforts in the management of acne and to bring nutrition into their treatment protocols.
To start with, focusing on a Low Glycemic Diet containing complex carbohydrates (vs. simple sugars) has been shown in human clinical studies to significantly reduce the number and severity of acne lesions over a 12 week period. The glycemic index or GI describes this difference by ranking carbohydrates according to their effect on our blood glucose levels. Choosing low GI carbs - the ones that produce only small fluctuations in our blood glucose and insulin levels - is the secret to long-term health reducing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, healthy weight management and is now being implemented for the treatment and management of Acne Vulgaris. Well-designed studies have concluded that improving blood sugar balance through a low glycemic diet may help to reduce epidermal growth factor (that is over-excited in the acne patient) and inflammation within the skin.
There are many books and diets out there focusing on the Glycemic Index for optimal health and weight management. Below is the link that will take you to the “creators” of the glycemic index. The concept is rather simple and by providing your clients with these credible tools, you may offer them a long term approach to not only improving their acne condition, but also help them feel their best too!
Reference University of Sydney – Home of the Glycemic Index http://www.glycemicindex.com/
Short Bio
Paula retains experience in consulting, public relations, product formulation and program development for the Nutraceutical and Medical Aesthetic Industry. Her role as a Scientific Evaluator and Regulatory Consultant for Health Canada and some of the top nutraceutical companies worldwide has solidified her reputation as a leader in research and development for innovative natural health products. As the Project Leader, Paula developed and guided an international weight loss program towards a successful launch in North America and Europe. As the Program Director for a prestige medical spa, she developed a weight loss and longevity program that was the impetus for the company’s rapid growth from an independent location, to a successful nationwide franchise.
With international recognition as a Nutrition & Fitness Expert, her strength in natural health and sports nutrition proved successful for many clients including children and competitive athletes. She’s worked with many top celebrities and models over the years and currently is too. With her background in medical aesthetics and product development, Paula is the co-founder and one of the formulators behind the GliSODin Skin Nutrients Nutricosmetic Line. She regularly appears on top news & networks as an expert beauty nutritionists and often sought by many of the leading health and beauty publications in North America. As their Expert Nutritionist, Paula is currently on New Beauty Magazine’s and Aesthetic Trends & Technologies wellness advisory boards. Visit her website at www.paulasimpson.com.
Comments
Don replied on Permalink
Paula I'd love to look at some of the studies that you mention in the article. Can you please provide links? Thanks.