Acne can be the result of several factors however study after study has shown us diet has an effect. Things like dairy and chocolate are known to be connected to acne and zits, but what foods can help remedy acne or prevent it from occurring in the first place? In this list, we will share all the different foods good for acne:

1. Kimchi

When it comes to foods good for acne, kimchi is the number one item in our list. Kimchi is rich in probiotics which scientists believe is connected to the health of our gut. Kimchi consumption can cultivate a microbial environment in the body that works to clear skin in the most natural way.

Although probiotic-rich foods are controversial among some medical scientists, studies show foods like kimchi, tempeh, or miso work to increase our body’s probiotic exposure while also alleviating skin conditions like acne.

2. Kale

Kale is one of the best vegetable foods good for acne. Vitamin A may be an important piece to the puzzle for some looking to rid themselves of acne. To this point, kale is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and is packed with vitamin A and E.

3. Oatmeal

Oatmeal face masks are very common among people trying to rid themselves of acne but did you know you can eat it as well! Not only does oatmeal create a filling meal but it’s high in fiber which works wonders at keeping your insides cleansed. Anything hanging around which could increase the likelihood of acne is going to be wiped through the gastrointestinal tract sticking to a diet high in fibre.

4. Green tea

Green tea is packed with antioxidants that will fight inflammation and swelling in the skin. In addition to the obvious benefits in drinking it, research has also linked green tea with preventing acne in topical preparations. This is an area of research still in early development but the impact teas can have on the skin are promising and, if you’re particularly prone to acne, is another recommendation you may want to take.

5. Carrots

Carrots are good foods for acne. They are also a good go-to snack for people who need something tasty but who want to stick with their anti-acne diet. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene which is Vitamin A and works to reduce acne.

6. Nuts and seeds

Pumpkin seeds and brazil nuts are among the nuts and seeds which should be go-tos for individuals suffering from particularly harsh acne. These contain good quality fats which can help reduce inflammation, and contain zinc and selenium to help combat acne. Some other seeds you can throw into your diet include chia seeds, walnuts, flax seeds, soybeans, and any fortified products.

7. Salmon

Salmon and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids are wonderful for acne. Naturally, you might think, if fat is potentially causing my acne problems, why would anyone want to add more fat to their diet – well, omega-3s work differently from normal fats. They lower inflammation and also lower a protein known as IGF-1 which is linked with acne. To put it plainly, you can’t have too much salmon in your diet if you’re trying to eliminate acne.

8. Pearl barley

Pearl barley is very nutty and it’s the type of nuts that can help clear up acne. Some people enjoy eating it separately including one person who simmered a tablespoon of pearl barley in two quartz of water, while others may want to mix it in with a salad. As it’s rich in azelaic acid, this is a proven anti-acne compound and tyrosine inhibitor which can help with acne-prone skin.

9. Legumes

Legumes are high in the vitamins A, D, E, and zinc. All of these play a crucial role in maintaining glowing skin and the best cosmetic appearance. Additionally, legumes are good foods for keeping our immune systems in tip-top shape. There are also several studies suggesting legumes can be effective at preventing acne or reducing the severity of acne.

10. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are rich in fiber which will help stabilize your blood sugar levels, and high in zinc which is known to fight off infections and a lot of the symptoms associated with acne. They’re also high in iron, B vitamins, protein, and are low in fat.

11. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are absolutely delicious and they are very rich in vitamin A among other things. Potatoes will spike blood sugar levels, something which is known to trigger acne. Sweet potatoes turn sugar much slower than regular potatoes and are a great substitution for these reasons as well as others. Consumption of sweet potatoes can help prevent acne as well as speed our skin’s natural healing mechanisms as well.

12. Whole grain toast

Instead of choosing white bread, switch to whole grain or whole wheat. Whole wheat grains in breads, pastas, bagels, and muffins don’t spike blood sugar as much which is believed to be a cause of acne. Anything related to white rice, white floor, white bread, cakes, or cookies, or anything built from white flour should probably be avoided.

13. Apple sauce

In your quest to eat healthier in order to eliminate acne, you’re probably going to run into several foods which aren’t the most exciting. Apple sauce is a delight to eat, tastes wonderful, and is something nice to throw in among a lot of new foods you may be trying.