Over 30 million people suffer from eczema, according to the Nation Eczema Association. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin disorder that commonly affects children and can continue into adulthood. Often, it will diminish with age, but not always. Certain factors do aggravate eczema and cause flare-ups. Allergies, such as a yeast allergy, are suspected to increase the chances of an eczema flare-up.
The Common Symptoms of Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis
Everyone reacts to eczema is different ways and is able to manage it differently as well. Eczema can show up anywhere one the body including:
- inside the elbows
- backs of knees
- face
- chest or back
- legs or arms
- hands or feet
- scalp or ears
The rash is often red or pink and can be dry in appearance. The skin may even be cracked or bleeding depending on the severity of the condition. You may even have tiny blisters and if the eczema is around your eye area, you may have bald patches on your eyelashes or eyebrows.
Foods That Can Cause a Yeast Allergy Reaction
Various foods can cause allergic reactions, and eczema is considered to be a response to an allergic reaction. Yeast sensitivity affects one in every three people. Foods that often contain yeast are:
- starchy foods, carbohydrates
- beer
- fruit skins
- ciders
- MSG
- soy sauce
- over-ripened fruit
- seasoning spices
- vitamin B supplements
- prepared soups and chocolate
Treating Eczema Naturally by Eating Yeast-Free Foods
If you suspect your eczema is being triggered by a yeast allergy, avoid yeast products and record how your eczema responds.
Check food labels to see if they are “yeast-free,” or consult your health food store for any yeast-free specialty foods. Many grocery stores now offer a yeast-free section of select foods. You can also consult a naturopath who may be able to assist you in finding safe foods to eat. She may also be able to detect any other factors that may be triggering your eczema flare-ups.
Treating Yeast Sensitivity to Help Eczema Get Better
Yeast sensitivity often causes other health concerns, besides eczema. It can cause gastrointestinal problems as well as impact your ability to breathe properly. Consult your doctor for a full diagnosis and to best decide on treatment options.
If you do not treat your eczema properly it can lead to more serious health concerns. Constant scratching of the area can permanently damage your skin and make it discolored, thicker and even leathery in appearance, according to the Mayo Clinic. Open skin sores are also more at risk to develop infections and if your eczema is near your eye, it can even lead to permanent eye damage.
Benefits of Treating Eczema Naturally by Eating Yeast-Free Foods
By establishing the cause of you eczema, you can treat it most times without use of medicated ointments. Also, if it is a food allergy that is causing your eczema, you are probably experiencing other health effects from that allergy as well. By avoiding whatever food product is causing the allergy, you will help your body become stronger and notice other health issues minimizing or disappearing altogether.
You can also look online for specialty stores that sell yeast-free products or offer yeast-free recipes. Also, to treat the eczema, you may wish to find a natural eczema lotion online from a natural health products store.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
National Eczema Association. "Eczema Quick Fact Sheet" (accessed October 18, 2010).
Foodintol. "Which Foods Causes Eczema? "(accessed October 18, 2010).
Mayo Clinic. "Atopic Dermatitis (eczema)" (accessed October 18, 2010).
Allergy. " Foods that Contain Yeast " (accessed October 18, 2010).
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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