Can Diet Trigger Eczema Flares? Sorting Fact from Fiction

If you have eczema, you may have wondered if certain foods are making your skin worse. While diet plays a role in overall health, its connection to eczema is complex. Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore whether food can trigger eczema flares—and what you can do about it.

Fact: Food Allergies Can Trigger Eczema in Some People

For some individuals, especially children, food allergies can contribute to eczema flares. Common culprits include:

• Dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Eggs
• Nuts (peanuts, tree nuts)
• Soy
• Wheat
• Shellfish

However, food allergies are not the cause of eczema, but in some cases, they can worsen symptoms. If you suspect a food allergy, consult an allergist for testing before eliminating foods.

Fiction: Eliminating Foods Will Cure Eczema

Eczema is a chronic skin condition influenced by genetics, environmental triggers, and the immune system. Cutting out foods won’t cure eczema, but for some, it may help reduce flares. Restrictive diets can lead to nutrient deficiencies, so always consult a doctor before making major changes.

Fact: Inflammatory Foods May Worsen Symptoms

Some foods may contribute to overall inflammation, which can worsen eczema in certain individuals. These include:

• Processed foods (fast food, sugary snacks)
• Artificial additives and preservatives
• Excess refined sugar
• Fried foods and trans fats

Fiction: Everyone with Eczema Should Follow the Same Diet

Eczema triggers vary widely. While one person may react to dairy, another may have no issue with it. There’s no one-size-fits-all eczema diet. The best approach is to track symptoms and identify patterns.

What Foods May Help Eczema?

Some foods may support skin health and reduce inflammation: ✔️ Omega-3-rich foods (salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts) – Help fight inflammation. ✔️ Probiotic foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) – May support gut health and immune balance. ✔️ Vitamin D sources (fortified foods, sunlight, fatty fish) – Linked to improved skin barrier function. ✔️ Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, spinach, turmeric) – Help combat oxidative stress.

FAQ: Diet and Eczema

Q: Should I get tested for food allergies if I have eczema?
A: If you suspect food triggers (like hives or worsening eczema after eating certain foods), an allergist can perform testing to confirm.

Q: Is dairy always bad for eczema?
A: Not necessarily. Some people react to dairy, while others tolerate it well. It varies by individual.

Q: Can drinking more water improve eczema?
A: Staying hydrated helps skin health, but drinking water alone won’t cure eczema.

A Personal Story

One of my patients, Emily, tried eliminating gluten and dairy for her eczema with no success. But after adding more omega-3s and probiotics to her diet, along with a strong moisturizing routine, her skin improved significantly. Dupixent and allergy shots completed the story for her: she has been 100% clear with no flares since being on these treatments for several months.

Diet is just one piece of the eczema puzzle. While food triggers exist for some, the most effective eczema management involves a strong skin care routine, trigger avoidance, and medical treatment when needed. If you’re unsure about food and eczema, work with a doctor to create a plan that works for you!

What are you waiting for?  If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.

Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies.  Buy it NOW!

Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.