Avoid these foods to prevent dry skin and eczema

As we transition into the harsher autumn and winter weather, many people will be hit with dry skin and eczema flare-ups.

What many may not know, however, is that your diet can also be a factor in causing these flare-ups and that certain foods can help avoid flare-ups, while others may lead to them.

Luckily, Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy has revealed the foods to prioritise - and those to avoid - to help manage eczema flare-ups.

He said: "Skin conditions such as eczema can be deeply frustrating and challenging, causing flare-ups that leave your skin red, itchy, and uncomfortably irritated.

"Eczema can appear all over the body, including the scalp, elbows and knees. While there's no cure, there are foods to avoid with eczema that could prevent your flare-ups from acting up."

Foods that can trigger eczema Dairy products

Bad news for cheese fans, as this is one food that can trigger eczema, as Dr Grant said: "Milk, cheese, yoghurt, and other dairy foods are some of the most likely triggers for making eczema worse.

"The proteins they contain can cause allergic reactions and inflammation. Many find significant relief in their skin's condition by bravely cutting out milk products."

He recommends opting instead for plant-based milk, such as almond, coconut, or oat.

Eggs & Soy

Eggs and soy can also lead to eczema break outs, so sufferers may want to avoid them over the next few months.

Dr Grant said: "Eggs from chickens, ducks, and other birds, plus soy and any products containing these ingredients, are other common triggers tied to eczema attacks. For some people, the proteins in these foods seem to cause skin irritation and swelling."

One substitute for eggs is to opt for plant-based egg equivalents, while soy can be swapped with coconut, almond or oat milk.

Nuts, Seafood & Wheat

He said: "Lots of eczema patients react to nuts, wheat/gluten, shellfish, and fish. All these foods are common allergens that can really ramp up eczema. Peanuts, tree nuts, and wheat tend to be the worst.

"Skipping nuts means checking for nut-based oils, pestos, nut butter, and baked goods with nuts. Try seeds instead. For gluten, choose whole grains like rice, quinoa, buckwheat or gluten-free oats.

For those suffering from eczema, Dr Grant has stressed the importance of remaining well-hydrated, as this will mean skin cells are less likely to become dry and itchy.

Anti-inflammatory foods can also help lessen the occurrence of eczema outbreaks, as Dr Grant said: "Many delicious, nutrient-packed foods have properties that combat inflammation. Filling up on these will help get your eczema under control.

"Firstly, Fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are good because they have lots of omega-3, a healthy fat. Additionally, fruits and veggies like blueberries, strawberries, spinach, and bell peppers contain antioxidants and other compounds that tame inflammation.

"Furthermore, people with eczema should use real olive oil for cooking, salad dressings and marinades. This is because olive oil has been shown in research to calm inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, acting as a treatment, due to its healthy fats called oleic acid."