The occidental diet is typically composed of high-glycemic foods, which have indicated in several studies conducted, to produce acne episodes. Such foods that have a high glycemic index (GI) include refined sugar and starchy foods such as cereals, grains, breads, milk, and processed foods.

According to some studies, the elevation in the level of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and insulin hormone in the human body system, results to the elevation of testosterone level in men. Then, as testosterone directly affects the secretion of sebaceous glands, an excessive sebum production is caused by the increased testosterone levels. The sebum or oil produced inside the organism can block the pores of the skin, forming a bacteria-friendly condition and thus promoting acne vulgaris. Also, there is an overproduction of skin cells caused by the previously mentioned hormones, further nourishing the acne-causing bacteria and aggravating the clogging of the pores.

A certain study conducted had observed that participants who only ate natural foods rather than the strongly refined foods taken in a western diet, showed minor or no acne problems at all.

Furthermore, they made the same study on immigrants on westernized locations. Strangely, these people, who used to eat just natural foods and did never experienced acne before, have acquired the condition when they arrived to their current western residence and have adapted the occidental diet including highly refined foods. Also, consumption of occidental diet in young teenagers causes a sudden increase in the sex hormones, causing an even higher incidence of acne.

Researches have also demonstrated that too much caffeine can also increase the stress hormone levels inside the organism. The large amounts of these stress hormones can further trigger the acne formation, or worsen existing acne conditions. The occidental diet commonly includes high-caffeine beverages, such as soda, tea, and coffee.

Other studies have also shown the importance of the significant amounts of dairy products and red meats in the occidental diet to the incidence of acne skin problems. This protein diet increases the IGF-1 levels, which, as mentioned earlier, can also increase testosterone levels, indirectly over stimulating the production of sebum, as well.

Studies further demonstrate that dietary changes concentrating on low glycemic carbohydrates, such as vegetables and fruits, have beneficial endocrine effects that are medically efficient in treating acne. Such positive endocrine changes maintain a healthy skin and a healthy growth of its cells, as well as promote normal production of sebum.

Although there is still no sound evidence on the influence of certain foods in the occidental diet and acne occurrence, it is still best to regulate the amounts (neither too much nor too little) of whatever types of food that we consume.

A new acne skin care product is now available to rejuvenate your skin thanks to biological ingredients that guarantee no allergic reactions or adverse side effects.

- Gabrielle Rygh