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Higher protein-low GI diet may help reduce the severity of acne - new report
October 2007
A new scientific report has challenged the widely held view that there is no relationship between diet and acne.
Published as a supplement to the September edition of Nutrition & Dietetics, the Role of Red Meat in Healthy Australian Diets report suggests that a Higher Protein-Low GI Diet containing fresh fruits and vegetables, lean red meat, seafood and wholegrains may help control the hormonal imbalances associated with acne.
A recent study conducted at RMIT among teenage boys found that a Higher Protein-Low GI Diet was associated with a 50 percent reduction in acne in just 12 weeks.
Acne is a common and complex skin disease that affects all ages. In developed countries like Australia it is estimated to impact between 79 and 95 percent of all adolescents and between 40 and 54 percent of individuals older than 25 years.
“We know from other studies that acne can have a huge impact on quality of life, with improvements having a positive effect on self esteem, confidence and on overall mood. Therefore the more we can learn about the relationship between good nutrition and the treatment of acne the better. The results of this study are encouraging,” stated Professor Tapsell, a member of the report’s Editorial Committee.
The report findings also support the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Dietary Guidelines for Australians which advises that 3-4 serves of lean red meat per week is an important component of a healthy diet for those of all ages, including teenagers.