Role of food in vitiligo:
The autoimmune disease, vitiligo, causes the cells that generate skin pigment to be attacked and destroyed, leaving behind sporadic white patches of skin. Numerous vitiligo sufferers ponder their options and whether their food and lifestyle choices can stop the ailment from deteriorating or recurring. Although there isn’t a “vitiligo diet” that is formally recommended, the best nutritional measures you can take include eating a nutritious diet rich in beneficial nutrients and drinking plenty of water. Additionally, like with any autoimmune condition, foods high in phytochemicals, beta-carotene, and antioxidants may help to strengthen your immune system.
Both a recommended diet for vitiligo and foods that make the illness worse are not accepted by science. Anecdotal data does, however, suggest that certain individuals react negatively to consuming certain meals, particularly those that contain the depigmenting compound hydroquinones. Each person’s body is unique and may respond to specific foods in a variety of ways. Even while there isn’t enough proof to support the idea that a “vitiligo diet” will relieve symptoms, you can improve your health by looking into the possible underlying causes of the ailment.
1. Consume nutrient-rich foods.
Eat a nutritious diet rich in lean meats and healthy fats because it may be nutrient shortages that cause the autoimmune process that causes vitiligo to occur.
2. Consume zinc-rich meals: When you have vitiligo, increase your intake of foods that are high in zinc. Vitiligo can be greatly reduced or even completely cured by increasing your body’s zinc levels. Additionally, you can increase your body’s levels of zinc by including dairy, almonds, and beans in your normal diet.
3. Eat Foods High in Folate: One of the main causes of vitiligo is believed to be low folate levels in the body. You may simply increase your intake of folate by changing your regular diet to include some items high in the vitamin. Make sure to include folate-rich cereals in your daily meals.
4. Foods to Avoid: a) Acidic foods that are high in vitamin C, such as lemons, gooseberries, oranges, grapefruit, tamarind, and other fruits, may prevent the pigments from forming and exacerbate the symptoms.
b) Drinks that are fizzy or sweetened will impede metabolism and harm skin health.
c) Foods that have been processed or preserved with chemicals should be avoided since they harm the immune system.