5 Acne Busting Foods

Acne doesn't just affect teenagers. Indeed, quite the opposite! Did you know that almost 40% of women over 30 suffer from adult acne? There are dermatological solutions. But that's not all! Numerous studies have shown that foods high in simple carbohydrates (dairy desserts, chocolates, sweets) and saturated fats (cured meat, meats served with sauces, chips, whole fat milk) increase the production and retention of sebum. So time to knock this one on the head and pile our plates with food for healthy skin. Some foods should be avoided like the plague, whilst others will work wonders for our skin.

Thumbs up for a 100% natural acne treatment!

Shellfish. Packed with anti-inflammatory zinc and omega 3, shellfish help fight adult acne (acne being an inflammatory response). Omega 3-rich foods help reduce the pro-inflammatory molecules that can aggravate acne. Oysters are top of the list, but salmon, trout, herring and sardines are also great as a natural acne treatment.

Fruit. Sugar creates skin inflammation, so before tucking into your favourite dish, it's worth knowing the glycemic index of the food on your plate! Fruits, in particular berries, have a low glycemic index. Citrus fruits are bursting with vitamin C, which strengthens cell membranes and, in turn, helps prevent acne scars.

Wholegrain cereals There's a proven link between eating refined cereals and the appearance of zits. So next time you're at the shops, zap the white bread, biccies and processed rice, and fill your basket with brown rice, bran, rye, quinoa and other natural acne treatments.

Green vegetables. The leaves of green vegetables are an excellent source of chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and fibre. Their high antioxidant vitamin E content means they help heal lesions and scars caused by adult acne. Green beans are charged with zinc, which prevents the release of hormones that cause acne to appear.

Brazil nuts. A tasty food for healthy skin, Brazil nuts contain selenium, a powerful antioxidant that prevents adult acne: it protects skin cells from inflammatory lesions and helps skin retain its elasticity.Calf and beef liver. As with shellfish, although slightly less effective, these are great anti-acne foods. Calf's liver contains zinc, a mineral essential for healthy skin. As for beef, it has high levels of selenium, which boosts the immune system and combats the appearance of acne.

Sweet potato. A natural acne treatment, this orange-coloured veg is packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This controls the excessive production of sebum, one of the causes of adult acne.

Green tea. Studies have shown that the antioxidants present in green tea can prevent acne. They help the bodyeliminate free radicals, the damaging molecules that, when found in excess, attack skin cells and tissue.