Omega-rich foods are fantastic at neutralising inflammation and soothing an overactive immune response. Walnuts, almonds, pecans and brazil nuts are also great protein sources but do ensure that nuts aren't eczema triggers for you first. Grass-fed meats are full of omega 3s and contain anti-inflammatory properties.
However, nuts such as almonds, peanuts, cashews, and walnuts may be a trigger for an atopic dermatitis flare up.
Like other topical oils, such as vitamin E or coconut, almond oil is an emollient, which helps the skin lock in moisture. This is critical for people with eczema to help relieve and repair flaring skin.
A third report described five cases of generalized eczematous dermatitis among persons who ate raw cashew nuts; all five were also exquisitely sensitive to Rhus antigen (6).
The fruits, nuts, resin and leaves of Pistacia lentiscus are used for the treatment of eczema, throat infections, asthma, kidney stones, diarrhea and stomach ache, with astringent, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, pectoral and stimulating properties [3,4,5,6].
Since eczema is an inflammatory skin condition, maintaining a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like blueberries or cherries, as well as avoiding potential allergens will help patients circumvent a worsening of symptoms.
Avocado. We have had hundreds of reports from eczema sufferers who say avocado worsens their eczema. While avocado is a healthy addition to your diet when you don't have eczema, avocado is one of the richest sources of amines and itch-promoting salicylates.
Food Allergies and Eczema
Food allergies can sometimes cause eczema for young children. But after age 3 or 4, it's rare. An allergic reaction to things like dairy products, eggs, nuts, soy, or wheat may cause hives or other skin problems that look like eczema, but they're not the same.
Occasionally older children with mild eczema will find their skin is better with sheep's or goat's milk rather than cow's milk.
Salmon, just like avocado, is a rich source of essential fatty acids, including omega-3. This means it has anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially benefit eczema sufferers. In one 2008 study, the omega-3 fatty acid DHA did appear to be able to help ease eczema symptoms.
'Early daily yogurt consumption appears to reduce eczema and early atopic sensitization particularly to food antigens. ' – Crane J, et al, 2018.
kiwi fruit: Kiwi fruit is another strongly acidifying fruit, high in salicylates and amines, and they're absolutely no good for eczema and other skin rashes.
Corticosteroid creams, solutions, gels, foams, and ointments. These treatments, made with hydrocortisone steroids, can quickly relieve itching and reduce inflammation. They come in different strengths, from mild over-the-counter (OTC) treatments to stronger prescription medicines.
Eggs. Another example of a common food allergen that can contribute to an eczema flare-up includes eggs. Some people have had egg allergies in the past but think that they have outgrown them because they don't experience any other symptoms.
The best foods to eat that contain quercetin are apples, blueberries, spinach, broccoli, cherries, kale, and onions. Eating a wide variety of the previously mentioned foods will help to control eczema symptoms.
CARROTS - You probably know that carrots are good for your vision, but did you know that many naturopaths advocate the consumption of carrots to combat eczema? Carrots are one of the best dietary sources of beta-carotene a nutrient that is known to help protect the skin.
Foods to Avoid if You Have Eczema
For those with dyshidrotic eczema (eczema of the hands and feet), foods that contain nickel make exacerbate symptoms. These include canned meats, chocolate, seeds, beans (including soy), peas, shellfish, and even some black teas.
A small number of eczema sufferers are sensitive or allergic to potato, so they should (understandably) avoid potatoes. This does not mean every eczema sufferer should avoid potatoes unnecessarily. You can have peeled baked potato, mashed potato and other types of potato, especially when prepared in a healthy manner.
Relieving eczema itch with banana peel
A friend recently told me to try something rather unusual for eczema: eat a banana and rub the inside of the peeling on the eczema. I tried it, and the results were staggering; I had no itching for six hours after a single application.
While dairy can aggravate symptoms of eczema for some people, a 2019 study has shown that some types of fermented dairy can actually help eczema. Fermented dairy, such as yogurt, is an important source of probiotics, which can treat eczema by improving the gut and skin microbiome.
Chamomile tea
Topical skincare products made with chamomile can help treat mild eczema, and when cold and flu season comes around, drinking chamomile tea can give your immune system a helpful boost.