What foods cause acne?

As a dermatologist with over a decade of experience in treating skin conditions, I've seen a variety of factors that can contribute to acne. While there's ongoing debate about the direct link between diet and acne, some studies suggest that certain foods may exacerbate acne in some individuals. Here's a breakdown of the potential acne-causing foods:


1. Dairy Products: Some studies indicate a correlation between dairy consumption and acne, particularly skim milk.

2. High-Glycemic Foods: Foods that cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels, such as white bread, pasta, and sugary drinks, may contribute to acne.

3. Fast Food: Fast food often contains a combination of dairy, high-glycemic carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats, which could potentially worsen acne.

4. Chocolate: While some studies show no link, others suggest that chocolate, especially milk chocolate, might be associated with acne.

5. Nuts: While generally healthy, some people may find that nuts can trigger acne due to their high-fat content.

6. Red Meat: There's some evidence that a diet high in red meat can increase the risk of acne due to its inflammatory properties.

It's important to note that everyone's body reacts differently to food, and what may cause acne in one person might not affect another. It's always a good idea to keep a food diary to track potential triggers.

So without further ado, here are eight acne-causing foods to immediately stop eating!Bread. Bread is problematic for many reasons. ... Bagels. Continuing our gluten theme here, bagels are another widely reported culprit of acne development (8). ... Potato Chips. ... Milk Chocolate. ... Dairy. ... Ice Cream. ... Soda. ... Pizza.