Food exclusion
Food allergies often go hand in hand with eczema and certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of eczema.
The first step is to identify the food/s that aggravate the eczema.
The main food culprits which are believed to trigger off eczema in children include:
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- cows' milk
- hens' milk
- soya
- wheat
- peanuts and tree nuts such as cashews, almonds, pecans and walnuuts
- fish such as shell fish, crabs, shrimps and salmon
Whereas in adults the main culprits which are believed to trigger eczema include:
- peanuts and tree nuts such as cashews, almonds, pecans and walnuts
- fish such as shell fish, crabs, shrimps and salmon
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Other food items which are believed to trigger eczema include:
- yeast-based breads
- dairy products ie cheese
- coffee
- tea
- alcohol
- salt
- soft drinks
- artificial sweeteners
- additives
- food colourings
- enriched flour
- acidic fruits ie tomato, orange, lemon, strawberries, blueberries and prunes
- food colourings and additives
- saturated fats
- animal protein from red meat
- margarine and hydrogenated oils
The above is just a small list of the most common types of foods that may aggravate your symptoms. The severity of eczema may vary because of the sensitivity of the individual to certain foods ie dairy products may trigger eczema in some and not in others.
In order determine which foods aggravate your eczema, you have to change your dietary habits. Follow a food plan for a few weeks recording all food and drink consumed together with any symptoms experienced. With the support of your GP/dietician you can then follow a restart-stop food plan of the foods you suspect aggravate your eczema. Other options include scratching the skin with the food source followed by a blood test taken by your doctor/dietician.
If you suspect certain foods aggravate your eczema you should consult your GP/dietician.
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 27 January 2011
Next Review Date: 27 January 2013
