Doctor Reveals the Foods Behind Breakout

Chocolate, Cheese, and Pizza Could Be Ruining Your Skin

Think your skincare routine is enough to keep breakouts at bay? Think again! Dr. Kate Jameson, Medical Director of Youth Lab Australia is revealing how popular indulgences like chocolate, cheese, and pizza could be wreaking havoc on your skin.

“I’m a big advocate for enjoying all foods in moderation. Savouring a delicious meal with your partner, catching up with friends over wine and cheese, and going out for ice cream with your kids are some of life’s great joys!” says Dr. Jameson. 

“That said, many people are unaware that the foods they love the most might be causing their skin problems. Certain ingredients in these foods can trigger inflammation, excess oil production, and acne.”

Here are the top breakout-triggering foods Dr. Jameson recommends you watch out for:

1. Chocolate

Would you consider yourself a chocoholic? As delicious as it is, chocolate—especially the sugary, dairy-filled varieties—if consumed in excess can lead to unwanted breakouts. The high sugar content spikes insulin, which can cause your skin to produce more oil.

Solution: Not all chocolates are created equal! Try switching for dark chocolate which contains less sugar.  Can’t resist a bar of the milk stuff? That’s okay. Just enjoy it sparingly to reduce the risk of breakouts.

2. Cheese

If you love entertaining, one of your staples is probably a well-curated cheeseboard. Unfortunately, cheese is another popular indulgence that can contribute to skin issues. Dairy, particularly in large quantities, can increase oil production and lead to clogged pores.

Solution: Consider cutting back on cheese or replacing it with plant-based alternatives to see if it improves your skin. If you simply can’t do away with the cheesy treats, try opting for goat’s cheese which can be gentler on your stomach and on your skin. Many people find that this option doesn’t trigger the same inflammatory response as dairy products from cows. 

3. Pizza

Pizza? That’s amore! Unfortunately, the combination of grease, refined carbs, and dairy makes pizza a triple threat to your skin. These ingredients can spike insulin levels and clog pores, leading to blemishes and acne.

Solution: Don’t worry! No one is telling you to give up your pizza nights. Enjoy a slice or two in moderation, with a nutritious salad on the side for balance. You might want to opt for healthier versions with less cheese and grease to reduce the skin impact. A perfect solution is to make your pizza at home to control the quality and amount of toppings used.

4. Sugary Snacks

Are you a regular at your local bakery? You’ll find no judgement here! Who doesn’t love a baked-that-morning caramel slice?

If you’re in pursuit of a glowing complexion, you might want to be mindful that foods high in sugar—like sweets, biscuits, and pastries—can cause insulin spikes that lead to inflammation and breakouts.

Solution: You don’t need to say goodbye to all of your sweet treats. Have you heard of the 80/20 rule? Try to swap sugary snacks for healthier alternatives like fruits and nuts 80% of the time to support your skin health, while indulging 20% of the time to satisfy those cravings.

If you’re wanting to feed your sweet tooth in moderation, try eating them in combination with protein and fibre rich foods to up the satiety-factor.  

5. Fried Foods

Are you headed on a road trip? Be conscious of the snacks you pick up at the roadhouse along the way. Greasy, fried foods can increase the amount of oil your skin produces, making it more likely to experience clogged pores and breakouts.

Solution: Wherever possible, choose baked or grilled options when dining out to reduce grease and keep your skin clearer. 

Balance Your Diet for a Clearer Complexion

“By making small changes to your diet, you can dramatically improve the condition of your skin,” explains Dr. Jameson. “A balanced diet filled with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will support your skin health and reduce the risk of breakouts.”