Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and scaly skin.
While eczema has no cure, certain food choices may help you manage and alleviate some symptoms by balancing the immune response and reducing inflammation.
Foods to avoid if you have eczema
According to Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), 30–40% of people with eczema also have a food allergy. You may experience and treat these conditions separately.
When food triggers symptoms of eczema, the reaction tends to be immediate. Milk and eggs are common triggers of eczema flares.
Below are the most common food allergens listed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Some of these may be associated with the worsening of eczema symptoms in some people:
- sesame
- soybeans
- milk
- wheat
- eggs
- peanuts
- fish
- tree nuts
- shellfish
Eczema triggers vary between people, though. Foods that trigger symptoms in one person may have no effect on someone else.
Working with a doctor or registered dietitian and keeping a food log may help you identify your potential triggers and guide you in making personalized dietary choices.
What foods to include if you have eczema
Certain foods may help you manage some of the symptoms of eczema by balancing your immune system or reducing chronic inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory foods
Eczema is linked with inflammation, so eating anti-inflammatory foods may help alleviate symptoms in some people. Still, a 2022 study notes that more research is needed to determine a causal relationship between an anti-inflammatory diet and eczema relief.
Anti-inflammatory foods may include:
- Fatty fish: Salmon, sardines, trout, and mackerel are examples of fatty fish full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory effects.
- Berries: Options like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain phytochemicals called anthocyanins. These give berries their bright colors and are responsible for their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Colorful fruit and vegetables: Tomatoes, carrots, blue cabbage, and pumpkin are just a few of the many colorful choices that are packed with vitamins and anti-inflammatory compounds like lycopene. Lycopene has been associated with the prevention and relief of dermatitis symptoms in studies with mice.
- Leafy greens: Greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in vitamins, fiber, and minerals, and are known for providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Nuts and seeds: These contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and gut-friendly fiber.
- Olive oil: This oil is rich in healthy unsaturated fats that, like omega-3s, offer anti-inflammatory properties.
Probiotic-rich foods
A review from 2021 indicated that probiotics supplementation might help decrease chronic inflammation by balancing the immune response and changing bacterial metabolism. This, in turn, improves symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Probiotic foods may include:
- yogurt
- kefir
- sauerkraut
Many probiotics supplements are also available on the market. Consider discussing with your healthcare professional which options are best for your case.
Vitamin D
According to a review from 2016, people with eczema are more likely to have low levels of vitamin D. This may be particularly true for people who avoid sun exposure to prevent skin irritation. The review also suggests that for these individuals, eating vitamin D foods or supplements may reduce eczema symptoms.
Foods rich in vitamin D include:
- fish oil and fatty fish
- fortified foods like mushrooms, spreads, or milk
- egg yolk
Before taking a vitamin D supplement, consider asking your healthcare professional for a blood test to determine your current serum vitamin D levels. If a deficiency is detected, they may want to give you prescription-strength vitamin D.
Is eczema linked to gut health?
Emerging research suggests that there is a connection between eczema symptoms and gut health.
A 2021 review indicates that the gut microbiome — the collection of microorganisms in your digestive tract — helps regulate your immune system and inflammatory responses.
Imbalances in the gut microbiome, such as an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or a lack of beneficial bacteria, may contribute to chronic inflammation, and in turn, to the development or worsening of eczema symptoms.
Thus, incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, or kimchi, as well as high fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may support a healthy gut and potentially improve eczema symptoms.
How is eczema treated?
The National Eczema Association lists these common options for eczema management:
- Antihistamines: These topical and oral medications can help curb itchiness and inflammation. You can typically get them over the counter (OTC). Options include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and loratadine (Claritin).
- Pain relievers: These medications may relieve severe symptoms of some types of eczema, like pain and burning. Options may include ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
- Oral steroids: Short-term oral steroids may be indicated for severe eczema to suppress the immune system and reduce allergic responses and inflammation. Side effects are possible. The most common option is prednisone (Rayos).
- Topical hydrocortisone: Hydrocortisone is a low potency steroid that may reduce skin irritation, inflammation, and itching. You can buy it as creams, ointments, lotions, and gels. OTC options may include Cortef and prescription options may consist of hydrocortisone butyrate (Locoid).
- Topical corticosteroids: Some steroid creams and gels are more potent than hydrocortisone and help reduce localized inflammation. Medium potency steroids include triamcinolone (Tritocin) and high potency options include clobetasol (Clobex, Olux).
- Immunosuppressants: These prescription medications block systemic inflammatory reactions in your body by pausing the immune system to slow down eczema symptoms. Options include cyclosporine (Restasis), methotrexate (Trexall), and azathioprine.
- Phototherapy: Light therapy that uses ultraviolet (UV) light may help reduce eczema symptoms like itching and scaling.
Other options to help you manage eczema symptoms at home may include:
- Moisturizers and emollients: Keeping eczema skin moisturized is vital and the first line of treatment for the condition. Emollients may help keep the skin hydrated and prevent chronic dryness. You may need to apply these several times daily, including after baths or showers.
- Colloidal oatmeal: Some people find that bathing in oatmeal dissolved in water soothes their symptoms.
- Lukewarm baths and showers: Avoiding hot water may help you reduce the chance of skin irritation and scaling.
Depending on your type of eczema and symptoms, your healthcare professional may opt for one or more of the above management options.
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