What is Eczema?
Eczema is a condition wherein patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, cracked, and rough. Some types can also cause blisters. This condition can be caused on any part of the body. Some examples of eczema are shown in the photos below
What causes Eczema?
People with eczema tend to have an over-reactive immune system that when triggered by a substance outside or inside the body, responds by producing inflammation. It is this inflammation that causes the red, itchy and painful skin symptoms common to most types of eczema.
The Common triggers of eczema include:
Dry skin – When your skin gets too dry, it can easily become brittle, scaly, rough or tight, which can lead to an eczema flare-up.
Learn more about the importance of moisturizing skin to manage eczema flares.
Irritants – Everyday products and even natural substances can cause your skin to burn and itch, or become dry and red. These can include products that you use on your body or in your home — hand and dish soap, laundry detergent, shampoo, bubble bath and body wash, or surface cleaners and disinfectants. Even some natural liquids, like the juice from fresh fruit, vegetables or meats, can irritate your skin when you touch them.
Common irritants include:
- metals (especially nickel)
- cigarette smoke
- soaps and household cleansers fragrances
- certain fabrics like wool and polyester
- antibacterial ointment like neomycin and bacitracin formaldehyde, which is found in household disinfectants, some vaccines, glues and adhesives
- isothiazolinone, an antibacterial that is found in personal care products like baby wipes
- cocamidopropyl betaine, which is used to thicken shampoos and lotions
- paraphenylene-diamine, which is used in leather dyes and temporary tattoos, among others
What foods to be included in diet if you have eczema?
Eating anti-inflammatory foods may help lessen or reduce eczema symptoms. This includes:
Fatty fish
You may be able to reduce your symptoms by eating fatty fish, such as salmon and herring. Fish oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory. You may also consider taking an omega-3 supplement.
In general, it’s recommended that you get at least 250 mgTrusted Source of omega-3 fatty acids daily, preferably from food.
Foods containing quercetin
Quercetin is a plant-based flavonoid. It helps give many flowers, fruits, and vegetables their rich color. It’s also a powerful antioxidant and antihistamine. This means it can reduce inflammation as well as levels of histamine in your body.
Foods high in quercetin include:
- apples
- blueberries
- cherries
- broccoli
- spinach
- kale
Foods containing probiotics
Probiotic foods, such as yogurt, contain live cultures that help support a strong immune system. This may help reduce flare-ups or allergic reactions.
Probiotic-rich foods include:
- sourdough bread
- miso soup
- naturally fermented pickles
- soft cheeses, such as Gouda
- unpasteurized sauerkraut
- kefir
- tempeh
Your best foods depend largely on any food allergies you may have been diagnosed with. Foods considered to be eczema-friendly may trigger a flare-up in those who are allergic to them.