Dermatitis and Food Allergies

Skin condition contact dermatitis may be triggered by foods in the diet as well as contact with environmental allergens according to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

The condition causes inflamed, itchy, scaly skin and is normally triggered by contact with allergens such as colognes, skincare products and cleaning products.

Dr Joseph F. Fowler claims many people don't realise food allergies can also trigger the condition. He studied 45 patients at the Salam University of Louisville. Common environmental allergens were eliminated and patients who still did not see a reduction n symptoms were asked to eliminate foods such as chocolate, citrus fruits and tomatoes as well as common condiments and flavourings.

Almost half of the participants reported significant improvements in their condition.

Many of the problem foods contained a chemical called Balsam of Peru, which is also contained in many common fragrances.

Thursday, 1 November 2001