The Food-Skin Connection

Eczema is a dermatitis condition caused by an allergic inflammatory response. Eczema can stand alone or be common with those who also have autoimmune conditions or children with autism spectrum or ADHD.

Symptoms can range from very mild to very severe. There are many possible triggers to eczema but one of the most common is gluten and/or dairy.

In one specific study, it was found that the eczema in the group of patients was not improved with standard medical treatment (corticosteroids), however, “showed prompt resolution when GFD (gluten free diet) was introduced”.

Corticosteroid medication, the typical treatment for eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions, can come with many side effects including deficiencies in the following nutrients: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin D, Calcium, and Phosphorus.

Lowered immunity and adrenal problems are common potential risks of taking corticosteroids.

The food/eczema connection has been established and should be considered when looking for treatment options.

Also, be on the lookout for other signs of leaky gut/gut dysbiosis, such as digestive issues, other allergies, and behavioral conditions. Tune in to what specific foods he/she consumes most often/or craves- -many times these are the foods which may be problematic.

Some other areas of assessment which can be considered are Allergy Antibody Assessment, looking at both IgE and IgG levels as well as assessing for fatty acid imbalance.

Many times, essential fatty acids such as Evening Primrose Oil or Fish Oil can also help dramatically with skin conditions such as eczema.

Bonciolini V, et al. "Cutaneous Manifestations Of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity: Clinical Histological And Immunopathological Features. - Pubmed - NCBI". Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. N.p., 2016. Web. 2 Mar. 2016.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26389946