Woman With Eczema All Her Life is Almost Cured After Changing Her Diet

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a prevalent skin condition affecting millions of Americans—one in ten, to be precise. Despite extensive research, there is no definitive cure for eczema. However, one woman managed to combat the severity of her condition by altering her diet.

Going Vegan

Victoria Jinks, a 28-year-old woman from the UK, has endured severe eczema since birth. She tried numerous topical treatments like creams and ointments, which only exacerbated her condition.

Her eczema was so severe that she resorted to wearing long sleeves even in summer and often missed work due to intense itching and bleeding. 

In a pivotal decision, Victoria ceased all topical treatments and altered her diet. By 2017, she eliminated meat and eventually adopted a fully vegan diet. Remarkably, her skin cleared up within two months, looking better than ever before.

Victoria acknowledges that veganism isn't a universal remedy or a definitive cure for eczema but shares that it significantly improved her condition. She suggests that others with eczema consider dietary changes as a potential aid.

As for a cure for eczema and allergies, there's no solid evidence that a plant-based diet is a cure-all. Nonetheless, some studies suggest it may be beneficial for skin conditions.

Evidence suggests that certain foods can trigger eczema due to allergies, which are often correlated with the condition. Approximately 30% of individuals with eczema have food allergies. Common allergens linked to eczema include soy products, cow's milk, eggs, gluten, fish, shellfish, and nuts. 

While these foods do not cause eczema, they can exacerbate the condition in those who have it. It's crucial to recognize that these are only some of the potential allergens. Different individuals may react to other foods, so eliminating them from the diet can be highly beneficial.

The Right Diet for Eczema

Certain foods can aggravate eczema, while others can help alleviate symptoms. Anti-inflammatory diets are ideal for managing eczema. Below are guidelines on what to consume and what to avoid if you have eczema. The recommended foods are anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants.

Foods to eat:

• Omega-3 fats – such as salmon, herring, tuna, mackerel, walnuts, flaxseed, and leafy green vegetables
• Monounsaturated fats – like olive oil and avocado
• Carbohydrates from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Coffee and green tea, in moderation
• Turmeric and ginger

Foods to avoid:

Trans fats include hydrogenated oils, margarine, processed, and fried foods. Saturated fats are found in red meats, full-fat dairy, and other animal-sourced foods. High amounts of omega-6 can be found in vegetable oils such as safflower, corn, and cottonseed oil. 

Carbohydrates from processed foods and sugary foods are also concerning. For those with eczema, it's recommended to consider supplements like Vitamin D (especially if skin worsens during winter or in cases of deficiency), Vitamin E (which can reduce IgE antibody levels), and Omega-3 Oils (beneficial if you're not a fan of fish).

Veganism is a dietary choice embraced worldwide, consisting solely of plant-based foods and excluding all animal products. Since 2017, approximately 6% of Americans have identified as vegan. By 2019, around 25% of Americans aged 25-34 reported being vegan or vegetarian. The key distinction between veganism and vegetarianism is that vegans avoid all animal products, whereas vegetarians do not consume meat.

For some individuals, eliminating animal products from their diet is challenging, yet the benefits are remarkable. Vegan diets contribute to numerous health advantages, including:

• Weight loss
• Decreased risk of heart disease through lower cholesterol levels
• Reduced likelihood of developing colon and other cancers
• Improved diabetes management by reducing A1C levels

Beyond health improvements, veganism also promotes animal welfare, which is why many people adopt a vegan lifestyle.