Living with eczema is not easy and it can often be very uncomfortable for those suffering with it. In the worst cases, it leads to constant itching, swollen and sore skin, large areas of scabbing and loss of sleep. However, it is possible to fight eczema and there are multiple ways of tackling it. Many people stick to the common method of applying cream to certain sore areas in a constant battle, but is there a way for juicing to help in the fight?
How to Know if You’ve Got Eczema?
Eczema is a condition that affects the skin, causing it to become sore, irritated and flaky. Its exact cause still isn’t known, but it is largely accepted as a genetic condition that can be further developed by certain factors. Typically, if you have eczema you will already know, but if you have large areas of sore and itchy skin there is a chance you do. However, in all cases, it is best to confirm this through tests carried out by a local doctor.
How Will Juicing Help?
Juicing to fight eczema is a new concept that focuses on using ingredients that contain quercetin to reduce inflammation. It is especially useful to juice these ingredients rather than eating them directly as the quercetin can then be ingested quickly, without the need for the membrane fibres surrounding it to be broken down first.
Beneficial Juicing Ingredients
When it comes to juicing against eczema it’s important to use the correct ingredients or there will be no noticeable impact. Luckily there are many great juicing ingredients that contain high levels of quercetin including:
- Kale
- Spinach
- Blueberries
- Apples
- Cherries
These ingredients can either be juiced together to make one super juice or used as parts of a different juice recipe that adds a better overall value. However, to ensure that enough quercetin is extracted be sure to prepare ingredients well, so they can be pressed optimally.
While we always recommend juicing first, if you’re in the mood for something stronger it has also been shown that red wine contains plenty of quercetin. Therefore, in safe and measured amounts it too can help the fight against eczema, which is as good an excuse as any.
Other Foods to Eat
While juicing some specific ingredients can be useful when battling eczema there are also many other foods that can be helpful but aren’t suitable for juicing. Fatty fish are on such beneficial food due to their naturally high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which provide anti-inflammatory effects around the body. Not every fish contains high levels of Omega-3 though so be sure to pick from options such as mackerel, salmon and sardines.
If fish isn’t for you, then you can also access Omega-3 through small capsule supplements. These can be purchased in any pharmacists or chemists and typically provide the 6 gram recommended daily portion.
Probiotic foods have also been shown to have a positive impact as they help to improve and strengthen the immune system. The stronger the immune response, the lower the chance of allergic reactions and sore eczema outbreaks. Good probiotic foods to look out for include:
- Yoghurt
- Dark Chocolate
- Miso
- Pickle
- Kimchi
What You Should Avoid
When it comes to eczema everyone is unique, and many people are triggered by different factors. However, some factors are more likely to be a trigger than others. Many people who suffer from eczema also suffer from common allergies and intolerances. As a result, testing to see if the following allergens cause breakouts can lead to a breakthrough in reducing the effects.
- Dairy
- Gluten
- Soy
- Nuts
- Pollen
These five are the most common allergens that affect eczema, but they aren't the only ones and many different allergies lead to exaggerated symptoms.
Outside of allergies, it is also a good idea to avoid fruits and vegetables that belong to the Nightshade family. This group includes foods such as tomatoes, aubergine, chilli peppers and potatoes. Nightshades cause a reaction as they contain salicylates, which lead to skin inflammation in sensitive individuals and over 60% of people who suffer from eczema react to them.
Finally, cutting foods that are very high in sugar can help to reduce outbreaks. Eating very sugary foods leads to a large rise in insulin levels. When the amount of insulin in the body increases it can result in heightened skin sensitivity. Therefore, gorging on sweets should be avoided and where possible cakes, biscuits and chocolates are best avoided.