Skin irritation can occur for several reasons, like sunburn, insect bites, sweat, or dryness. Another common reason for your skin feeling itchy is food intolerances or allergies. This can happen when your immune system does not respond well to certain foods you have eaten. From seafood to dairy products, different foods can cause problems in different people. Here’s a list of some of the common foods that can make your skin feel irritated.
Soy
Soy is a type of legume found in foods such as edamame, miso, soymilk, and tofu. Those who are allergic to soy usually experience skin inflammation and irritation. Sometimes, one can also develop hives, a skin rash that appears as small, raised, red bumps, which can be quite itchy. However, these symptoms are experienced only in infancy and childhood. Soy allergy typically appears when one is young but usually goes away by the time they reach adulthood.
Milk
One of the most common foods that may trigger skin irritation is milk. This is quite different from lactose intolerance, which causes digestive problems. It is generally observed in children who are allergic to cow’s milk, breast milk, or even milk from other mammals, such as buffalo, sheep, and goats. Skin irritation is often followed by symptoms such as hives and wheezing. Sometimes, there can be abdominal cramps, loose stools, and colic in infants.
Peanuts
Certain proteins found in peanuts trigger an immune response in some individuals. Because of this, the immune system erroneously identifies the proteins as harmful. Therefore, indirect or even direct exposure to peanuts causes the immune system to react badly. As a result, there is skin irritation and swelling. In some cases, a person may also experience shortness of breath and digestive problems. Sometimes, exposure to peanuts can result in anaphylaxis, a life threatening allergic reaction.
Shellfish
Fish that have a shell-like exterior or a hard shell are categorized as shellfish. These include lobsters, squids, oysters, crabs, and shrimps. You may experience skin irritations after eating shellfish due to a certain protein present in it called tropomyosin. This protein triggers the immune system leading to symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, and hives. However, not all types of shellfish trigger skin irritation. You may experience allergic reactions to only some shellfish and need to avoid only those.
Tree nuts
Almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts are all grouped as tree nuts. These are basically whole nuts. These are different from peanuts, which come under the category of legumes. Allergies to tree nuts often cause symptoms such as skin irritation, which can lead to hives in severe cases. Other symptoms include itching in the throat, eyes, and mouth. If you are allergic to tree nuts, make sure you look carefully for them in the ingredient list of processed foods, butter, and oils.
Wheat
Wheat allergies are not the same as celiac disease, which is also triggered by the consumption of wheat-based foods. While celiac disease is an autoimmune disease, wheat allergy is triggered by a protein found in wheat. It is observed that those who have eczema or asthma are more prone to having allergic reactions to wheat. Foods such as baked goods, bread, pasta, and processed foods can cause skin irritation and itching.
Finned fish
Allergy to finned fish is less common than that to shellfish. However, you may experience irritation, itchiness, and hives on their skin when you eat any type of finned fish. These include cod, eel, halibut, pollock, salmon, snapper, and tuna. In addition, allergic reactions may also occur due to consuming fish-based food items, such as caviar, omega-3 supplements, and gelatin. However, it is not necessary that if one type of finned fish causes an allergy, another type will as well.
Eggs
Another common food that may trigger skin irritation is eggs. Not all parts of eggs trigger this allergic reaction. For instance, you may experience allergic symptoms due to the egg yolk, or you may have allergic reactions due to the egg white. In either case, it is the protein in the eggs that trigger skin irritation, inflammation, and itchiness. So it is important to watch out for eggs in the ingredient list of foods, including baked goods and processed foods.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes do not cause allergic reactions on their own. However, it is the cross-pollination, i.e., pollen that is transferred from grass to the tomatoes, that causes allergies. It is generally observed in those who are prone to seasonal allergies, and a tomato allergy can cause hives, rash, and irritation in the skin. In some cases, it can also cause oral allergy syndrome (OAS), which leads to an itchy mouth after eating a tomato.
Sesame
If you are allergic to other foods, there is a high probability that you may be allergic to sesame as well. The symptoms include skin irritation, itchiness, and mild skin rash. Usually, sesame is used as a seed, paste, and oil while cooking. You can also find it in remedies, cosmetics, and pet food. However, sesame is not always listed as an allergen. So make sure to read food labels and ingredient lists carefully.
The skin performs several vital functions, like protecting us against harmful substances and controlling our temperature. However, being the body’s outermost layer, it is susceptible to damage by dust particles, UV rays, and other external agents that cause dryness and breakouts. Hydrating the skin is one way to remedy such issues and achieve healthier, better-textured skin. Here are a few nutritious foods that can increase moisture and prevent dry skin.
Avocados
Avocados are packed with vitamins A, D, and E, which help moisturize the skin and protect it against damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. It also has biotin, an essential element for skin hydration. Avocado guacamole is the perfect accompaniment to snacks like nachos, breadsticks, and crostini. One can also spread a layer of the fruit over toast for a scrumptious breakfast.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and anchovies are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which regulate the secretion of oil in the skin and keep it hydrated. Studies have shown that DHA, one of the three types of omega-3 fatty acids, is essential for the skin. Fatty fish contains DHA in sizable proportions and should, therefore, be a part of one’s meals to enhance skin texture and elasticity.
Eggs
Our bodies need proteins to produce optimal collagen, a compound that enhances skin elasticity and hydration. Besides being excellent protein sources, eggs are high in sulfur and lutein. Sulfur is an antimicrobial and keratolytic element that helps hydrate the skin, while lutein increases skin elasticity. One may enjoy boiled or scrambled eggs or prepare a wholesome omelet for a protein-rich breakfast.
Oysters
Individuals with dry or chapped skin may be deficient in zinc. Oysters are among the richest sources of this mineral, with three ounces containing nearly 32 mg. Oysters are also protein-rich, so they can ensure overall skin health and prevent dryness.
Oranges
This tangy citrus fruit is packed with vitamin C, which increases collagen production in the body and helps maintain skin texture. One may have oranges directly or in the form of fresh orange juice (preferably vitamin C-fortified).
Cucumber
Cucumber is among the best foods to improve dry skin. The high water content in it helps moisturize the skin considerably. Cucumbers also contain silica and vitamins A and C, crucial in collagen production. This versatile vegetable may be had directly or incorporated into juices, salads, and soups.
Walnuts
A handful of walnuts contains 2.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, which regulate the skin’s oil secretion and enhance its texture. Walnuts are also high in vitamins A, B5, and E, which brighten the skin and facilitate skin suppleness.
Turmeric
Turmeric has curcumin, the compound that gives this spice its yellow-orange color. Curcumin is found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can accelerate the process of eliminating dead skin cells, thus hydrating the skin and preventing dryness. It also contains properties that help manage skin breakouts.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain high levels of beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A in the body and aids clear skin. Beta-carotene also helps produce healthy skin cells, enhancing overall skin health and texture. Moreover, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins C and E, which the body requires to boost collagen production and defend itself against damage from external agents.
Yogurt
Yogurt, a natural probiotic, helps maintain a healthy gut, essential to prevent skin conditions. It replenishes the skin with calcium, which aids in producing sebum, a natural sticky, oily substance that prevents the skin from drying out. Yogurt also has vitamin B, which acts as a natural moisturizing agent for the skin. Finally, it is a rich protein source, contributing to optimal collagen production.
Watermelon
Watermelon is known for its high water content that helps with skin hydration. The fruit also has vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for skin protection, hydration, and enhanced collagen production. A bowl of diced watermelon or a glass of fresh juice (without added sugar) is the perfect start to the day!
Beetroot
Like watermelon, beetroot is exceptionally high in water content, with water accounting for 87% of its constituents. It is also rich in vitamin C, which boosts collagen production and maintains skin texture. One may include beetroot in daily recipes like salads, soups, smoothies, juices, and stir fry.
Soy
Soy is an excellent vegetarian source of protein, which the body requires for collagen production. It also contains isoflavones that help preserve the body’s collagen levels. Further, soy milk contains iron, calcium, fiber, folic acid, and B vitamins, all of which are essential for skin health and texture.
Besides incorporating these best foods to improve dry skin into the meal plan, one should limit sugary foods and beverages, as they can cause excessive skin glycation and lead to premature skin aging. Staying hydrated is also crucial to ensure glowing, supple skin. It is recommended that women and men drink 3.7 and 2.7 liters of water daily. Furthermore, investing in a good moisturizer is essential to retain skin moisture and texture. Finally, one should apply good-quality sunscreen even while indoors during the day to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.
The adult human body is made up of at least 60% water. And growing up, we’ve been told to drink lots of water to maintain the level of this liquid to stay healthy. But many people often wonder about what is genuinely received from drinking water. Individuals should note that there isn’t just one but several benefits of staying hydrated daily. Therefore, here are the ten positives one could expect from drinking enough water daily.
Joint lubrication
Sometimes people feel like their joints’ cannot absorb shock effectively and experience mild or severe pain in this region. The symptom is a potential indicator of dehydration, which may result from insufficient water. Therefore, by drinking enough water, one could ensure that the cartilage found in joints and disks stays lubricated, which may keep it free from complications.
Saliva and mucus creation
Drinking sufficient water each day may result in the production of saliva and mucus. These properties help digest food and moisten the nose, eyes, and mouth. Saliva and mucus also help prevent friction of these organs and avoid damage. Furthermore, water consumption helps keep the mouth clean and prevents tooth decay.
Regulate body temperature
When an individual drinks water, some of it gets stored in the middle layers of the skin. The liquid then rises to the skin’s surface as sweat when the body heats up. As sweat evaporates, the process cools the body down, which helps maintain optimal body temperature. However, the lack of ample water in the body may produce less sweat, resulting in a rise in heat storage. The phenomenon could make an individual less tolerable to heat strain, which could affect them physically, especially during strenuous activities.
Prevent headaches
Individuals are often susceptible to health conditions like headaches, including migraines. While there are many underlying causes of migraines, they could stem from the lack of proper hydration. So when an individual drinks ample water, it may help relieve these symptoms.
Complements digestive processes
There are several elements to digestion. The body is susceptible to other uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, heartburn, and gas without proper hydration. Improved fluid intake could help break down soluble fibers to keep the digestive process regular.
And so drinking water also tackles constipation, a common problem that complicates bowel movements, resulting in a limited ability to pass stools. And while one could resort to treatments to improve their condition, experts may also recommend increasing daily water intake. Higher amounts of healthy fluid in the body may relieve constipation and help one pass stool. One should consider drinking mineral water, as this is rich in magnesium and sodium, which is essential in improving bowel movements and consistency in people with constipation.
Improved brain performance
Studies show that even mild dehydration may affect aspects of the brain, such as memory, concentration, reaction time, and mood. Therefore, one could ensure their body stays hydrated, which is essential to improve brain performance. Drinking sufficient healthy liquids like water could contribute to stabilized emotions, improved cognition, and tackles feelings of anxiety. Staying hydrated could be crucial for older adults at a higher risk of dehydration and impaired cognitive function.
Better energy levels
A dehydrated individual may suffer from deteriorated blood circulation, which could reduce oxygen flow to the brain. The lack of healthy fluid may also compel the heart to work harder to pump oxygen to all body parts throughout the day. These situations result in extensive loss of energy, which could make one feel sluggish, tired, and lose focus. Therefore, by drinking enough water daily, an individual can maintain their energy levels, essential to indulge in various tasks. Drinking sufficient water also reduces oxidative stress that usually occurs during high-intensity exercise.
Prevention of kidney stones
Clumps of mineral crystals that develop in the urinary tract are known as kidney stones. Those who develop these stones may experience symptoms, including severe pain in the back or side that does not go away. Other symptoms include blood in urine, fever, chills, and vomiting. So one of the benefits of drinking ample amounts of water is the prevention of these kidney stones. The water helps dilute the concentration of minerals in the urinary tract, which could reduce the chances of its formation. Drinking sufficient water also helps flush out unhealthy bacteria from the bladder, which is necessary to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Enhanced detoxification
The human body produces harmful toxins and removes them as waste material eventually. The properties are flushed through one’s breathing, bowel movements, urination, and perspiration. Drinking enough water could help support the body’s natural cleansing process, which enhances the detoxification process.
Maintain healthy pounds
Most individuals are habitual in snacking in between meals which may increase the number of pounds they gain. So drinking water throughout the day may help them feel full in between meals, which could prevent such unhealthy snacking. Studies also indicated that staying hydrated may help boost metabolism. Furthermore, increasing water intake could help one reduce and balance other harmful properties in the body, such as cholesterol, sodium, saturated fat, and sugar.