Role of dietary factors in acne vulgaris among young adults: A case–control study

Abstract

Background: Previous studies on the potential role of diet in acne vulgaris have shown conflicting results. However, there are very few studies from India. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the role of dietary factors in the causation of acne vulgaris among young adults. Materials and Methods: This case–control study studied the dietary factors of people aged 18–25 years. A total of 224 patients with moderate-to-severe acne were evaluated. The control group comprised 260 individuals with no or mild acne. Both groups were asked to fill up a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, family history of acne among first-degree relatives, and relevant medical history. The information on selected food items such as milk and dairy products, rice, fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, chocolates, and cakes was recorded on a food frequency questionnaire. Frequency of intake was categorized as: More than 3 days/week, from 1 to 3 days/week, <1 day/week and never. Acne severity was determined as per a global score. Body mass index and other anthropometric measures were obtained. Results: There was a positive association of family history of acne with the occurrence of acne. Milk was highly significantly association with occurrence of acne (P = 0.000). The protective effect of fish consumption on acne was also noted. Conclusion: Clinicians need to counsel their patients regarding the effect of diet, especially dairy products on their acne lesions.

Keywords

• acne
• diet
• milk