Foods Least Likely to Cause Acne

Up to 45 million Americans have acne, making it the most prevalent skin condition in the U.S., according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms can include whiteheads, blackheads, pink bumps, pimples and large, inflamed and pus-filled lesions known as cysts and nodules, which might lead to scarring. Particular foods do not cause acne. Your overall dietary lifestyle, however, might play a role in managing your symptoms. For best results, seek guidance from your dermatologist or dietitian.

Whole Grains

Whole grains, such as:

• oats
  
• barley
  
• brown rice
  
• quinoa
  
• popcorn
  
• contain all nutritious parts of the grain

Lowering the glycemic impact of your diet might lead to fewer acne symptoms, according to a report published by the "Skin Therapy Letter" in 2010, by improving levels of the hormone insulin 1. Hormonal imbalances are one factor that contributes to acne outbreaks. To lower the glycemic impact of your meals, replace enriched breads, pasta and rice with 100 percent whole grain equivalents. For example, air-popped popcorn provides a low-glycemic snack alternative to potato chips and pretzels.

Fruits and Vegetables

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Fruits and vegetables are top sources of antioxidants, including vitamins C and A, which support your body's ability to fend off and heal from infections and disease. Vitamin A has many properties identical to those of retinoid drugs, which are used to treat acne. Unlike medications and dietary supplements, vitamin A-rich foods aren't known to pose risks for side effects. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in vitamin A include:

• mangoes
  
• apricots
  
• tangerines
  
• cantaloupe
  
• papaya
  
• spinach
  
• kale
  
• carrots

Carrot juice is an additional valuable source.

Soy Products

Soy is a protein-rich legume consumed in whole food form and as the basis of nondairy milk products, such as soy-based milk, yogurt and cheeses. Although dairy products affect people differently, they are associated with increased acne symptoms in some people. If your symptoms tend to flare up or worsen after consuming dairy products, opting for nondairy, soy-based equivalents provides a nutritious alternative. Soy products particularly rich in calcium include fortified soy milk and tofu.

Cold-Water Fish and Flaxseed

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Because fish is rich in protein, and flaxseed is rich in fiber, both foods are also low-glycemic. Eat flaxseed on its own or as a nutritious addition to smoothies, yogurt, baked goods and cereals.