There are several home remedies and diet plans which will help you fight eczema. Eczema or atopic dermatitis is quite uncomfortable skin condition in which the skin becomes absolutely dry. The skin of patients of eczema is different than others. It does not have the ability to absorb water. The skin is unable to stay hydrated for long duration therefore it becomes cracked and inflamed. Any allergen or trigger which comes in contact with eczematic skin initiates a series of itching and scratching which worsens the condition. Other than topical creams and ointments and home remedies there are several foods which help in improving this skin condition.

Although there is no confirmed research which provides authentic information about vitality of any food for skin in eczema yet there are several foods which prove to be healthy for skin.

What food should I eat to treat atopic eczema?

Anti-inflammatory foods

Since eczema or atopic dermatitis mainly concerns dryness an inflammation of skin therefore eating anti-inflammatory foods help in minimizing the inflammation. Anti-inflammatory foods include tomatoes, olive oil, fresh and green leafy vegetables like spinach, collard and kale, nuts like pistachios, walnuts and almonds, fatty fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, mackerel, and herring and most importantly fruits which include strawberries, blueberries, cherries and oranges. When selecting a fish make sure they have low mercury level. A strong anti-inflammatory food includes red cabbage. The anthocyanin, which gives it the characteristic red color, protects the skin against inflammation.

Omega-3-Fatty Acids

Moreover, fish oil must become a part of diet because it contains appreciable levels of Omega-3-fatty acids. In eczema, a daily intake of 250 mg of Omega-3-fatty acids should be preferred. Consider taking fish oil or any supplement for it. Sources of Omega-3-fatty acids include flaxseed oil as well. Half teaspoon of flaxseed oil brings moisture and nourishment to your skin.

Flavanoids

Other than Omega-3-fatty acids, flavonoids also contribute in improving the skin condition in atopic dermatitis. Quercetin, which is a plant-based flavonoid, has remarkable antioxidant and antihistamine properties. It is richly available in apples, blueberries, cherries, broccoli, spinach, and kale. They reduce levels of histamine in body which in turns reduces inflammation.

Probiotics

Omega-3-fatty acids and quercetin is followed by foods containing probiotics. Probiotics have immense influence over gut health but they also have powerful impact on skin in eczema. Use naturally fermented pickles, soft cheese, unpasteurized sauerkraut, yogurt, kombucha and kefir to observe the positive effect.

Oat meal

Moreover, oats have a wonderful way of helping our skin. They are not only added in bathtub with baking soda for eczematic skin but eating them in your favorite way keeps your skin healthy, strong and intact. They contain vitamin E, zinc and silica which are essential for healthy skin. Vitamin E can also be taken in the form of capsules.

Before you go ahead and use any of the listed foods make sure you are not allergic to any of them. In case of allergy, avoid them as they might act as triggers and flare up.

What food should I avoid completely to avoid atopic eczema?