Does Caffeine Cause Acne?
Author: MIJ Sadique
In recent years, people are getting more and more curious about the link between acne and food. And, you're no exception; perhaps, that's why you're reading this article! As fast-foods, sodas and caffeinated beverages have become so popular, it is wise to find out whether your acne is connected to any of these. Really, the food-acne relation varies from person to person. It's because of the fact that metabolic processes and hormonal imbalances are unique to each individual. It's a common opinion that caffeine is related to acne as it increases the acidity of your body. Acid-forming foods, such as dairy foods, alcohol, caffeinated drinks etc. lower the pH of your body and increase inflammation, a significant contributor to acne breakouts. Basically, the pH of a healthy body is slightly alkaline, lying in the range of 7.35-7.45. So, let's delve into some facts about caffeine with regard to your acne problem.
Perhaps, you know that citrus fruits are acidic, but did you know that they alkalinize your body when you eat them? But, it's not the case with caffeine. It forms acids, and acidity leads to inflammation and stress, which are among the prime causes of acne. To add to the woe, acidity decreases the repairing ability of cells, meaning that acne damages may take longer to heal. Caffeine actually sets off some hormonal fluctuations and biological reactions that hamper the working of acne treatment products. For instance, when your body is subject to stress due to sleep deprivation from caffeine intake, there is an increased production of androgen, a hormone that leads to excessive production of skin cells, which clogs your pores and causes acne. Caffeine is also a stimulant, which stimulates higher production of sebum that gives way for clogged pores. Again, it stimulates the release of cortisol, the stress hormone, which triggers the production of acne bacteria.
What foods contain caffeine? Coffee, soda, some beverages and some chocolates. So, what should you do to avoid caffeine? Should I put a full stop to my morning cup of coffee? Well, it is wise to keep your caffeine-intake moderate. Why not switch to green tea, which has less caffeine, but lots of antioxidants, the most important contributors for good health. What's more, green tea helps the liver flush out toxins, a function that is hindered by caffeine. Another idea is to try to adopt a Mediterranean diet that is rich in anti-inflammatory foods like tropical fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish and unsaturated oils. Acne vitamins and supplements work from the inside. Clearade reviews state that Vitamin B5 is very effective in improving the oil metabolism in the skin.
Generally, speaking we all know that caffeine is addictive and unhealthy for the body's systems. It causes mood swings, exhaustion, etc. Studies show that it takes about four hours for caffeine to get flushed out of your system. So, if you choose to quit caffeine consumption, be careful not to be abrupt. Withdrawals may cause severe headaches, and hence, you need to increase your water intake while decreasing your caffeine intake. It is in your best interest to put in some effort to monitor your diet, as it will help you determine the foods that exacerbate your acne and also identify the healthful items that you must include in your diet to combat acne.
About the Author
MIJ Sadique is specializing in skin issues and has made several studies about acne and acne remedies. He has more resources about scientifically proven acne vitamins, as well as pantothenic acid acne treatment.