For those suffering from eczema, eating certain foods can trigger their body’s defense mechanism to release compounds to fight infections, which can cause inflammation. This inflammation can cause an eczema flare-up. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce such instances. Herein, we discuss the most healthy anti-inflammatory foods that help in the natural treatment of eczema.

1. Fish
It is a natural source of omega-3 fatty acid that fights inflammation in the body and helps prevent dryness of the skin. Salmon, tuna, sardines, and herring are some of the fish rich in omega-3 acids. Omega-3 supplements are one of the best natural foods for treating eczema.

2. Foods that are high in probiotics
Probiotics support a strong immune system for the body. They help reduce flare-ups and allergic reactions. Foods rich in probiotics include miso soup, kefir, soft cheese, tempeh, and naturally fermented foods.

3. Foods containing quercetin
Colorful fruits and vegetables like apples, broccoli, spinach, and kale contain a inflammation-fighting flavonoid called quercetin, which gives color to the food and reduces the level of histamine in the body.

4. Food rich in beta carotene
Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant in the body and its especially important for healthy skin. It neutralizes the free radicals thereby reducing infections in the skin. Carrots, peppers, mangoes, butternut squash, green leafy vegetables are all rich in beta carotene.

5. Vitamin-rich foods
Vitamin C is essential to produce collagen and it is a great source of nutrients for the immune system to fight off invading bacteria that may cause eczema. Vitamins D and E are also essential to maintain skin health and immunity. Eating vitamin-rich foods helps to boost skin health. Vitamin supplements can also be for naturally treating eczema.

There are various diets that include these foods. For example, the Mediterranean diet emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil. It is a good choice of diet to follow for the natural treatment of eczema. This diet also includes red wine, which contains quercetin.

Foods rich in potassium and vitamins C and K like banana, potato, green onions, gluten-free buckwheat, beans sprouts, and rice milk are highly advised for the natural treatment of eczema.

6. Trigger foods
Certain common foods trigger eczema flare-ups and should be removed from your diet if the problem continues. Food-sensitive eczema reactions generally occur around a few hours to a day of eating that particular food. A good way to check if specific foods are causing eczema breakouts is by cutting out common culprits for a few days and then reintroducing them into your diet to see if they cause any reaction. Some common foods that can trigger an eczema breakout include:

• Gluten or wheat
• Soy
• Spices
• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Citrus fruits
• Tomatoes
• Certain nuts
• Foods containing preservatives and artificial ingredients
• Foods high in trans-fats
• Foods high in sugar

Those suffering from eczema must avoid these foods at all costs.