Acne & Raw Food Diet

Having acne at any age can be a real struggle. It can make you lose your self-esteem and make you feel unattractive. However, this doesn't have to be the case. In fact, by adopting a healthier diet, specifically a raw food diet, you can help your blemishes go away and improve your complexion permanently. Does this Spark an idea?

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that causes lesions on the surface of the skin. They can appear as blackheads, whiteheads, papules or pustules, which may look red and inflamed. Acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells combine with bacteria in the pores and clog them. In some cases, acne can become infected or inflamed, resulting in cysts or large lesions, which may scar.

What is a Raw Food Diet?

A raw food diet consists primarily of fresh vegetables and fruits. It requires that you don't cook any of your food and instead rely on alternative preparation methods. This means you'll use a blender to make smoothies and soups as well as juicer for freshly prepared fruit and vegetable juices. Nuts, seeds and some raw versions of grains, such as sprouted, are also allowed on this diet.

Foods to Eat on a Raw Food Diet

To eat raw is to eat food as it comes out of the earth. Pretty much any fruit or vegetable is allowed. However, some foods are preferred over others. For instance, it is recommended that you eat more vegetables, especially green leafy ones, as a staple in the raw food diet. Citrus fruits should be eaten in moderation, as well as nuts high in fat. Foods like avocados are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats and are encouraged as a regular part of your diet. Raw foodists should also partake in plenty of water each day.

How Going Raw Affects the Skin

Switching over a raw food diet is very beneficial for the skin. It helps to remove all the toxins from the body and allows a more youthful, supple appearance to the skin appear. However, it is important to note that the switch to a raw food diet can cause an initial flare in acne as your body detoxes. It will push out toxins through your skin, causing more blemishes and irritation for a few weeks. Then, you should notice your complexion clearing.

Food Allergies

In some cases, certain foods cause acne breakouts. Common offenders are dairy, gluten, soy and refined sugars. By going on a raw food diet, you eliminate these typical allergens and should notice a dramatic improvement in your skin's appearance. If this does not occur and acne worsens, for instance, other factors may be coming into play, at which time a proper allergy diagnosis from your doctor would be beneficial.