Eczema
Eczema is a condition in which the outer layers of the skin become inflamed, dry, itchy and thickened. In more severe cases the skin may split and weep and bacterial infections may occur. It is considered an inflammatory condition and can be quite severe in some individuals.
It may be associated with several other conditions including poor immune functioning, asthma, hay fever and food intolerances. It can be quite common in young children and it is estimated that up to 75% of childhood cases may be relieved through diet alteration.
The tendency to develop eczema may be inherited but environment may also play a role.
Causes
It has been shown that several factors may be involved in the development or aggravation of eczema. These include:
Food allergies
Childhood eczema has been shown to be linked closely with food allergies, the most common culprits being milk, eggs and peanuts. There have been some studies to show that eczema improved in children with mothers who avoided common allergens such as milk, eggs, peanuts, fish, citrus and wheat, chocolate and soy, during breastfeeding. Allergies to these common foods may not always be the cause, particularly in adults. Other items such as coffee, food additives, histamine, salicylates, benzoates, and other compounds found in fruits, vegetables and spices may also play a role.
Environmental allergies
Many people find that their eczema flare-ups are linked to contact with feathers, house dust mite, pollen, cat or dog hair. In addition changes in environmental temperatures and an increase in humidity have been shown to provoke an eczema reaction.
Hormonal changes
The natural fluctuations in the female hormone cycle may play a role in increased eczema patches. Pregnancy and the menopause may also act as triggers.
Leaky gut
The gut lining provides a barrier that helps to prevent the entry of molecules that may cause a problem into the blood stream. If this barrier is damaged and becomes leaky it can be responsible for the development of food allergies and provokes an immune response. This may lead to eczema signs.
Dysbiosis
An imbalance of the good gut bacteria can lead to leaky gut, described above, and also may lead to the overgrowth of harmful bacteria or yeasts such as candida. A lowered amount of good gut bacteria has also been shown to affect the immune system and may play a role in the development of eczema.
Poor essential fatty acid metabolism
Essential fatty acids are required for the health of skin cells and help to keep moisture within the cells. Some people have difficulty in converting and using the essential fats and are prone to drier than normal skin, which may result in the development of dry, itchy patches.
Nutrient deficiencies
Leaky gut may lead to poor absorption of nutrients and low levels of B6, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E and magnesium may affect healing, immunity and fatty acid metabolism.
High toxic load
We are exposed to many more chemicals than our ancestors ever were. This includes: heavy metal exposure, high levels of nitrates in drinking water, long-term ingestion of aluminium from cooking utensils and food packaging, use of pesticides, levels of oxidizing free radicals from the air, fried and processed foods, cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes and exposure to plastic residues. Some people seem to be very sensitive to these and can react through the development of skin conditions.
Medical treatment
Conventional medical treatment tends to be focussed upon reducing inflammation through the use of corticosteriods either orally or in a cream. Doctors often suggest coal tar soap and moisturisers. Anti-histamines may be suggested if the eczema is particularly itchy. Anti-biotics may need to be prescribed if infection is present. These treatments are all aimed at the symptoms rather than the cause of the problem.
Nutrient therapy
Diet and supplementation can be used effectively to aid in the reduction of eczema signs. It is recommended to:
Avoid potential allergens
Including cows milk, ice cream, cheese, wheat, eggs, peanuts and additives
Increase anti-oxidants
These help to protect the body against damage from inflammation. Most fruits and vegetables contain high amounts of anti-oxidants and so choose a variety and aim for 8 portions or more a day.
Increase water
It is essential for the removal of toxins, can aid in constipation and keeps skin cells hydrated. Aim for 8 glasses a day or 1 ½ to 2 litres.
Reduce inflammatory foods
Foods such as red meats, dairy and fried, fatty foods contain molecules that play a role in inflammation. It is best to avoid these foods
Increase essential fatty acids
The anti-inflammatory molecules in oily fish, nuts and seeds are vital for reducing inflammation. Aim to eat 2-3 portions of salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring or trout a week and snack on handfuls of walnuts, brazil nuts or pumpkin seeds.
Avoid foods that can damage the gut lining
This includes coffee, alcohol and spices. This ensures the gut lining is in good health and will not allow entry to food molecules that may trigger an allergy response.
Eat a healthy balanced diet
- Eat regular small meals that help to stabilise the blood sugar levels, this may also assist in female hormone balance
- Choose wholegrains such as wholemeal pasta and bread, brown rice, oats, rye, buckwheat and amaranth
- Avoid sugars and be aware of hidden sugars in foods
- Opt for homemade meals and avoid pre-prepared foods in packages
Boost probiotics
Eat prebiotics to feed the good gut bacteria and encourage their growth. Foods such as Jerusalem artichoke, bananas, asparagus, oats and onions are rich sources of prebiotics.
For a more comprehensive diet sheet Click here
Supplements
There are many supplements that have been shown to be of benefit these include:
- Borage oil, starflower oil or evening primrose oil - These all contain the omega 6 essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid. It has been shown that some people with eczema often have a deficiency in these essential fats or have a problem with their breakdown and use within the body.
- Fish oil or omega 3 - The anti-inflammatory molecules found in the fish oils may be of benefit for eczema inflammation.
- Glutamine – This amino acid is used as a fuel by the gastro-intestinal cells for regeneration, this makes it a very good supplement for healing the gut if there are leaky gut problems or food intolerances
- Probiotics - The beneficial bacteria have been shown to be beneficial at normalising bowel movements and elimination of toxins but also help with immune regulation and supporting gut health. It is advised to find a probiotic with good levels of lactobacillus acidophilus and bifodobacteria.
- Multivitamin and mineral – A good baseline multi-nutrient supplement is recommended for most people but is especially important for those with nutrient deficiencies, poor gut functioning and food intolerances.
- MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane) – is a sulphur containing supplement that has natural anti-inflammatory properties and also supports the proteins within cells of the skin and other structures. It can be taken internally or applied to the affected area in a cream.