Following a diet with low or moderate amounts of carbohydrate not only helps keep a balanced weight but also may improve acne. “Theoretically, people with acne may have hyperinsulinemia and foods that are low in the glycemic index (GI) may contribute to the hormonal control of acne,” said Alan R. Shalita, the chairman of the department of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in New York, adding that few studies conducted on this topic have revealed controversial results.
Hyperinsulinemia, or failure of the Blood Sugar Control System (BSCS), is characterized by excessive blood levels of insulin. Following a low carbohydrate diet may lower insulin release and help control blood sugar levels. “I would encourage patients with acne to moderate the amount of carbs that they eat and not to overdo dairy,” Shalita recommended according to the WebMD report, stressing that dairy products may contribute to acne.
The Cancer Research medical journal has found that a low carbohydrate, high protein diet slows tumor growth and prevents cancer from starting.