Dietary Considerations for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Foods to Include and Exclude
In the pursuit of managing Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), an inflammatory skin disease, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can be a significant step. This approach involves embracing foods that reduce inflammation and avoiding those that may trigger flare-ups.
Foods to Embrace:
Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, are a staple in an anti-inflammatory diet for HS. Berries, high in antioxidants, also find a place in this diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish (like salmon) and flax or chia seeds, are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. Turmeric, with its curcumin content that inhibits inflammatory pathways, is another beneficial food. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats supports reducing inflammation in HS [1][2][3].
Foods to Avoid:
Dairy products, linked to increased inflammation and often avoided during HS flare-ups, should be minimised. Processed foods that contain additives and high levels of unhealthy fats should also be avoided. Fried foods, typically high in pro-inflammatory compounds, should be limited. Sugar and sugary foods, which can exacerbate inflammation and worsen HS symptoms [2][3], should also be avoided.
In summary, an anti-inflammatory diet for HS focuses on whole, plant-based foods, healthy fats, and avoidance of dairy, processed, fried, and sugary foods to help manage and reduce HS flare-ups [1][2][3].
An elimination diet, where certain foods are temporarily removed, may help manage HS symptoms. This diet, designed to reduce inflammation in the body, can help manage HS symptoms. However, it is advisable to consult a registered dietitian for guidance.
Yogurt, particularly plain, nonfat yogurt, can reduce inflammation due to its high probiotic content. It is worth considering as part of an anti-inflammatory diet.
Smoking tobacco is associated with HS flare-ups; quitting smoking can reduce the likelihood of HS flare-ups. Alcohol, known to be inflammatory and can worsen HS symptoms, should be reduced or eliminated entirely to improve symptoms.
The Mediterranean diet, focusing on whole, minimally processed foods, especially plant-based, may help improve HS symptoms. Refined carbs, including desserts, white bread, white rice, pasta, chips, crackers, and pretzels, should be limited as they can lead to increased insulin response and sebum production, potentially triggering acne and HS.
Gluten, brewer's yeast, and alcohol are suggested foods to avoid during an elimination diet trial. A study suggests that brewer's yeast may cause HS flare-ups, especially for individuals sensitive to gluten.
Highly processed foods and foods with lots of additives can negatively impact gut flora in individuals with HS. Simple sugars are a common trigger for inflammation and may worsen HS symptoms. Pairing fiber-rich foods with protein-rich foods like fish, meat, and eggs can help stabilise blood sugar.
Eating smaller, more frequent meals and snacks can help manage HS symptoms by stabilising blood sugar. Choosing fiber-rich foods, like fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, and whole grains, can help stabilise blood sugar and potentially manage HS symptoms.
[1] Source for the benefits of an anti-inflammatory diet for HS [2] Source for foods to avoid in an anti-inflammatory diet for HS [3] Source for the impact of dairy, processed foods, and sugary foods on HS symptoms
- In the fight against Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), incorporating a diet rich in leafy greens, berries, omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and yogurt can be beneficial due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- To manage HS effectively, it is advisable to minimize dairy products, processed foods, fried foods, sugar, and sugary foods, as they are often triggers for inflammation and flare-ups.
- An elimination diet, which involves temporarily removing certain foods, may aid in managing HS symptoms, but consultation with a registered dietitian is recommended.
- To improve HS symptoms, one may consider adopting the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods, particularly plant-based, and limiting refined carbs, alcohol, gluten, and brewer's yeast.
