Dermatologists and doctors treating acne should keep an eye on patients’ as acne triggers depression and mood.
In the first year after being told by a doctor that they have acne, patients’ risk for a diagnosis of major depressive disorder spikes by more than 60 per cent compared to the general population, a new study shows. “We found that acne increased the risk of developing clinical depression by 63 per cent in the first year following an acne diagnosis and that this risk remained elevated for five years after the initial acne diagnosis,” the researcher said. Overall, acne treatment patients had 46 per cent higher risk for major depression than the comparison group. Women outnumbered men among the acne patients, and women were also more likely to develop depression.
Acne includes whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, cysts and nodules that affect the face, shoulders, back, chest and upper arms. Past research has found that roughly two-thirds of acne patients are adults, not teenagers, and that depression is common, with about 10 per cent of female acne patients also experiencing depression symptoms.
Here’s what you need to eat and avoid to reduce/prevent acne
1. Avoid foods with high glycemic index
Researches have shown that a low glycemic diet may help wipe off acne completely. Do not consume refined grains, sugar, corn syrup, sugar and white flour in your diet. Manage your blood sugar levels with a natural diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, whole grains, legumes, etc.
2. Slash iodine content from your diet
Acne is said to be closely related to excess iodine in your diet. Make sure you do not cut down on iodine completely, but reduce the intake, which will then do wonders on your skin.
3. Add zinc in your diet
Zinc is a mineral in your body that has anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits acne-causing bacteria. Include zinc-rich foods like kidney beans, oysters, red meat and pumpkin seeds.
4. Include omega-3 fatty acids
Aim to eat more fish, chia seeds and flax seeds, which are abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Consult a doctor in case of excessive acne.
