Today, more than 31 million Americans of all age groups experience eczema. Their symptoms include dry, itchy, scaling, or inflamed skin, scaly patches, and oozing. Since it affects each person differently, it is essential to determine the substances that result in an eczema flare-up. Although there is no cure for eczema, there are steps that people can take to reduce the symptoms.
One treatment for eczema is applying a lotion to relieve the dryness and itch. You can purchase creams like Goldbond eczema treatment from your local pharmacy or supermarket or online.If you are susceptible to eczema, you should be aware of the foods that may trigger a flare-up. Here are common foods that people with eczema may need to avoid
1. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C. Unfortunately, they are also acidic and can cause inflammation and increase eczema symptoms. Oranges and other fruits have salicylates and amines, which cause itching in people sensitive to these substances. Some people experience itchy or red skin from just touching the rind of grapefruits, oranges, and other fruits
2. Dairy
If you’re prone to eczema, you might want to skip the cream in your coffee. Milk and other dairy products like cheese and ice cream are known triggers for some people. Many of our favorite foods are dairy-based. Think of cheese pizza, ice cream cones, lattes, and cereal with milk. To avoid the itch, substitute the milk with coconut or rice milk
3. Gluten or wheat
In gluten-sensitive people, eating products containing gluten can result in itchy skin or a rash. Gluten is the group of proteins in wheat, barley, and rye. It has a binding action and helps foods to keep their shape. If you were avoiding gluten in the past, you would have to forego many common foods like bread, cakes, and pasta. Today many gluten-free alternatives for these foods are on supermarket shelves
4. Soy
Soy proteins can cause an allergic reaction, including dry, red, and itchy skin in some people. For these people avoiding soy is the solution. It’s a given that soy milk and tofu should be avoided. Soy is a common ingredient in many other foods, so it is essential to read the labels. For example, crackers, peanut butter, and canned soups may contain soy
5. Cinnamon
Cinnamon and other spices make our foods tastier and more fragrant. Enjoying foods like bread, pies, sauces, and rice dishes that contain these spices may result in an allergic skin reaction later on. Spices like cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla are known to trigger skin rashes, redness, and itchiness. Avoiding cinnamon and other spices may also mean steering clear of fragrances and other products with cinnamon and other spices
6. Tomatoes
While tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and other nutrients, they also have salicylate. This naturally-occurring chemical can cause itching and redness of the skin and make eczema worse. If you are susceptible to eczema flares, you might want to avoid tomatoes. Keep in mind that it is not just fresh tomatoes. You will need to stay away from tomato products like sauces and ketchup
