6 Worst Foods for Eczema and Itchy Skin

6 Worst Foods for Eczema and Itchy Skin

Your diet might not cause eczema, but what you eat can definitely trigger the symptoms. The signs can become significantly worse if you eat foods that you are sensitive or allergic to. Hence, it is important to eliminate these foods from your diet to manage the condition better. So, here are the worst foods for eczema and itchy skin.

1. Dairy products
Dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, butter, and cow milk are commonly associated with allergies in eczema patients. In addition to this, dairy products can harm the gastrointestinal tract lining. When there is damage to this lining, tiny holes are made, letting bigger particles of food enter inside the body. This can cause sensitivities and an allergic reaction. Among all the dairy products, the worst food is yogurt. It has added sugar, flavors, and natural colors, which can flare-up the symptoms of eczema.

2. Grapes
It is recommended for eczema patients to avoid grapes or any products made from grapes, such as grape juice, raisins, or wines. Grapes contain three chemicals, including amines, salicylates, and MSG, known to promote itch. Salicylates, which are natural pesticides, are made from vegetables and fruits and can be found in some herbal medicines, aspirin, teething gel for babies, and perfumes.

3. Kiwi
Kiwi can cause strong itching and is considered one of the worst foods for eczema and itchy skin. It is loaded with acids and has salicylates and amines in abundance, which can cause itchy skin. The reaction after eating kiwi can be seen immediately or the following day. There is a three-day window in which the reaction can take place after eating kiwi. This can create a lot of confusion toward food tolerance in people with eczema. So, if you have been experiencing flared-up symptoms of eczema even after a couple of days of eating kiwi, the fruit can still be the culprit.

4. Oranges
Oranges and products made from oranges, such as orange juices, can have similar reactions as grapes on eczema patients. Just like grapes, oranges are also acidic and are loaded with amines and salicylates, the chemicals that cause itchy skin. A study found that 36 percent of people suffering from eczema experienced flared-up symptoms after eating foods rich in amine, such as oranges.

5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes and products made from tomatoes are also a significant threat for eczema patients. They contain all three chemicals: amines, salicylates, and natural MSG, which can trigger eczema symptoms. Therefore, it is important to eliminate tomatoes from your diet.

6. Avocado
There have been several instances where eczema patients have experienced worsening of symptoms after eating an avocado. Although avocados are considered healthy, they should only be eaten by people who do not suffer from eczema. Avocados are loaded with amines and salicylates, which can aggravate the symptoms of this condition.