Eczema is a skin condition that causes redness and itchiness of the skin. It is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. It is more common during childhood but it can occur at any age. It is a chronic condition and though there is no permanent cure, the symptoms can be treated and measures can be taken to avoid flare-ups. Certain foods can also trigger or aggravate the condition. Being aware of the sensitive foods for eczema is an integral part of managing the condition.

It is found that foods that trigger inflammation in the body also trigger eczema. Hence, avoiding unfriendly foods for inflammation helps reduce the frequency of eczema flare-ups.

Unfriendly foods for eczema

A person who is suffering from eczema must watch their diet and maintain a food diary to identify the trigger foods to prevent a flare-up. Some of the foods that have been known to be bad foods for eczema are:

• Certain fruits
  Citrus fruits have been found to be triggers for eczema in some people. Even dried fruits, grapes, kiwis, and avocados can be triggers for eczema.
• Dairy and eggs
  It has been found that a significantly large percentage of eczema patients are sensitive to eggs and dairy products.
• Certain vegetables
  Broccoli and tomatoes can worsen eczema symptoms in some people.
• Birch pollen
  In some eczema patients, birch pollen causes problems. Hence, they should be careful and avoid pears, green apples, carrots, hazelnuts, and celery.
• MSG, soy sauce, and nitrites
  Foods that have monosodium glutamate, soy sauce as well as those that have nitrates are triggers for an eczema attack. Nitrites are commonly found in deli meats and canned meats.
• Foods rich in nickel
  It has been found that in patients with dyshidrotic eczema which is a type of eczema that usually affects the hands and feet, foods that contain nickel are triggers. These foods include shellfish, nuts, chocolate, beans, peas, canned meat, black teas, and seeds.
• Some seafood
  Certain seafood, especially shellfish is sometimes a trigger for an eczema attack.
• Too much sugar and carbs
  Foods that raise insulin levels in the body also cause inflammation and are therefore best avoided to reduce eczema inflammation.

Recommended foods for eczema

Foods that help the body to avoid eczema and inflammation are:

• Oats
  Oats are not only rich in fiber but also in vitamin E, silica, and zinc that help to soothe eczema.
• Certain vegetables
  Some vegetables such as red cabbage and beets have nutrients that are very good for soothing the skin.
• Fatty fish
  Fatty fish and fish that are low in mercury such as sardines, salmon, and trout are actually beneficial for skin health and eczema in particular.
• Flaxseed oil
  Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 that helps to rejuvenate the skin and keep eczema symptoms at bay. It is advised to take a small quantity of flaxseed oil internally every day.
• Probiotics
  Foods that are rich in probiotics such as yogurt, sourdough bread, miso soup, and soft cheeses that have live cultures are found to be soothing and beneficial for eczema conditions.
• Saffron
  Saffron is found to be a spice that is highly beneficial for eczema patients.