REVIEW · December 01, 2014
TAKE-HOME MESSAGE
The authors of this evidence-based review summarize the role of diet in patients with atopic dermatitis, acne, and nonmelanoma skin cancer. Prenatal and postnatal probiotic supplementation decreases the risk for atopic dermatitis, and breastfeeding is protective in high-risk infants, but not in those at normal risk. Multiple randomized controlled trials have supported the benefit of a low glycemic diet in individuals with acne. Human studies have been contradictory and inconclusive in the role of diet in patients wtih nonmelanoma skin cancer.
- This is a useful resource to address patients’ questions about dietary supplementation and modifications.
– Sarah Churton, MD
ABSTRACT
Patients commonly inquire about dietary modifications as a means to prevent or manage skin disease. Answering these questions is often challenging, given the vast and conflicting evidence that exists on this topic. This 2-part continuing medical education article summarizes the evidence to date to enable physicians to answer patients’ questions in an evidence-based manner. Part I includes atopic dermatitis, acne, and nonmelanoma skin cancer. The role of dietary supplementation, dietary exclusion, food allergy, maternal diet, and breastfeeding in the development and/or prevention of atopic dermatitis is summarized. The dermatoendocrinologic mechanism for the effects of glycemic index/glycemic load and milk on acne is described, as well as related clinical evidence for dietary modifications. Finally, evidence and recommendations for restriction or supplementation of dietary factors in the prevention of nonmelanoma skin cancer, including fat, vitamins A, C, D, and E, and selenium, are reported.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Diet in Dermatology: Part I. Atopic Dermatitis, Acne, and Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer
J Am Acad Dermatol 2014 Dec 01;71(6)1039.e1-1039.e12, T Bronsnick, EC Murzaku, BK Rao
Expert Comment
Dermatology
Understanding the value of nutritional and other “nontraditional” approaches to care can be important in delivering quality care. Closing the loop requires a system that will remind the physician to educate patients about these approaches every time! This article has spurred us to add the following points to our electronic medical record “macros” in order to remind us to cover them with patients and families.
Acne
For mothers with children with atopic eczema
Melanoma and dysplastic nevus patients:
Psoriasis