The Role of Insulin Resistance and Blood Sugar in Acne

Low Carb Diet and Skin Health

A very low-carbohydrate diet (20-50g/d) or low-carbohydrate diet (50-100g/d) can be beneficial for individuals struggling with acne. This dietary approach can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Additionally, if you have other skin conditions such as skin tags, it's worth noting that skin tags are also associated with insulin resistance.

Traditional Herbs for Blood Sugar Management

If dietary changes alone do not provide sufficient relief, certain traditional herbs may be helpful in managing blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Some of these herbs include:

• Cinnamon

• Berberine

• Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

• Chromium

• Fenugreek

• Gymnema Sylvestre

• Bitter Melon

• Magnesium

• Vitamin D

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplements into your routine.

Other Considerations for Blood Sugar Management

In addition to dietary changes and herbal supplements, there are other factors to consider when it comes to managing blood sugar levels and reducing acne:

1. Avoid Eating Too Much Food In One Sitting: Consuming large meals can lead to hormonal fluctuations, increased blood sugar levels, and inflammation, all of which can contribute to acne breakouts. Intermittent fasting, extended water fasts, and avoiding large meals before bedtime may be helpful.

2. Be Mindful of Smoothies: While smoothies can be a healthy addition to your diet, it's important to avoid blending large amounts of high glycemic fruits and vegetables. The blending process can break down the fiber, resulting in sugar being absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream.

The Science Behind Insulin Resistance and Acne

Several studies have investigated the link between insulin resistance and acne severity. A study by Emiroglu et al. (2015) found that while fasting blood glucose levels were not significantly different between acne patients and controls, fasting insulin levels were significantly higher in the acne group. The study also noted a highly significant difference in HOMA values, which are used to quantify insulin resistance, between the two groups [1].

Another study by Rahaman et al. (2016) examined the association between insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 gene polymorphisms, plasma levels of IGF-1, and acne severity. The results showed that mean plasma IGF-1 levels were significantly higher in acne cases compared to non-acne controls, and that plasma IGF-1 levels positively correlated with the severity of acne. Furthermore, individuals with certain IGF-1 gene polymorphisms had a higher risk of acne and more severe grades of acne [2].

Conclusion

The relationship between insulin resistance, blood sugar levels, and acne severity is an important area of research. By understanding the potential role of these factors in acne development, individuals can make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle to help manage their skin health. While more research is needed, the current evidence suggests that a low carb diet, traditional herbs, and mindful eating habits may be beneficial for those struggling with acne and insulin resistance.

References

1. Emiroglu, N., Cengiz, F., & Kemeriz, F. (2015). Insulin resistance in severe acne vulgaris. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology/Postȩpy Dermatologii i Alergologii, 32, 281 - 285. https://doi.org/10.5114/pdia.2015.053047

2. Rahaman, S. M. A., De, D., Handa, S., Pal, A., Sachdeva, N., Ghosh, T., & Kamboj, P. (2016). Association of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 gene polymorphisms with plasma levels of IGF-1 and acne severity. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 75(4), 768-773. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2016.05.019