The skin reflects the condition of the gastrointestinal tract. It is sensitive to pathological processes in the digestive system, which manifest themselves as dermatoses. One of the most common manifestations is acne. Acne can appear sporadically under the influence of passing factors - poor diet, alcohol intake, infectious disease. Sometimes the rash is observed constantly, if we are talking about chronic long-term disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. Intestinal microflora and acne is an issue that is being researched to this day, and several mechanisms of the skin response to gastrointestinal diseases are now known.
With acne, it is important not to mask the symptom with cosmetics, but to understand the causes. An integrated approach will help you quickly cope with cosmetic defects and improve your overall well-being.
"Good" and "bad" food
Balanced and healthy food provides our body with a supply of nutrients necessary for the normal functioning of all organs and systems. To get adequate nutrition every day, you need to include “good” foods in your diet:
- fresh fruits and vegetables rich in fiber;
- legumes;
- nuts;
- lean proteins.
“Bad” foods include smoked meats, confectionery, fast food and snacks. Unhealthy food negatively affects blood vessels, internal organs and worsens the general well-being of adults and children.
Myth #1: Chocolate and dairy products cause acne
People can't get acne from eating dairy and chocolate. Dairy products, combined with high levels of refined foods and processed sugars, disrupt insulin levels and make the skin more prone to breakouts. However, not all dairy products cause rashes and acne. Some studies note that skim milk is the most likely acne trigger.
Why can't you use milk for acne? Cow's milk does not cause acne or breakouts. However, hormones produced by cows and contained in milk can overstimulate human sebaceous glands and cause inflammation of the skin.
Acne can often be caused by hormonal changes in our body. All animal milk contains hormone triggers that cause insulin to be released. Taken together, these reasons can lead to acne in women and men. But not for all people, drinking milk can cause a chain reaction leading to rashes (depending on the person’s lifestyle and diet).
What dairy products are good for acne? There are no dairy products that are 100% effective for acne. Many studies have found a link between dairy products and acne in teenagers. Some studies have shown that young people who regularly consume milk or ice cream are four times more likely to suffer from acne. Doctors recommend drinking skim milk if you have skin problems.
Is it possible to treat acne at home? Yes, as prescribed by a dermatologist: using ointments, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents. The patient also needs a diet when treating acne (switching to a healthy diet).
How to treat intestinal dysbiosis and acne on the face?
Only after all the studies have been completed, the doctor can decide on treatment. It must be comprehensive and coordinated between specialists (gastroenterologist and dermatologist). The most effective therapy will be aimed at normalizing the intestinal microflora and influencing the main links in the pathogenesis of acne.
One of the drugs that can be prescribed by a dermatologist for mild to moderate acne is Azelik®5.9 gel. The main component of the drug is azelaic acid5.
Azelik® gel must be used regularly 2 times a day (morning and evening) 5. The first results from using the drug, as a rule, become noticeable after a few weeks5.
*acne
Does the skin need “proper nutrition”?
Eating a healthy diet for acne can help reduce inflammation. Skin rashes due to gastrointestinal diseases are provoked by fatty, spicy and smoked foods. Acne may appear:
- due to excess sebum production due to disruptions in the endocrine system;
- with improper skin care;
- due to hormonal changes (hormonal acne).
The situation can be aggravated by taking medications, stress, unhealthy diet, and bad habits. The presence of inflammatory processes in the body can also cause a rash.
What foods should you not eat if you have acne? If you have a skin rash, you should exclude sweet and spicy foods from your diet. Alcoholic drinks and sweet soda are also contraindicated.
How to deal with acne? The diagnosis is made by a dermatologist and, if acne is confirmed, he selects drug treatment for acne and diet. If necessary, the doctor prescribes repeated tests for acne to monitor the progress of treatment.
Diagnostic features
Before you start taking colon cleansing medications, it is important to understand the causes of acne. If you feel discomfort and notice problems with digestion, it is advisable to visit a therapist or gastroenterologist. Treatment of the underlying disease can significantly improve the condition of the skin.
Diagnosis of the gastrointestinal tract condition is carried out using different methods:
- Ultrasound of the abdominal organs;
- gastroscopy;
- probing and microscopic examination of bile;
- colonoscopy;
- laboratory tests: microflora studies, coprogram, general blood tests, urine tests, etc.
Based on the examination, the doctor makes an accurate diagnosis and develops a treatment plan.
Myth No. 2: gastritis and stomach ulcers appear if you eat poorly and are nervous a lot
Gastritis and stomach ulcers cannot appear with poor nutrition and frequent stress. However, indirectly they can negatively affect human health and lead to stomach problems. Increased consumption of fat and salt, strict diets can increase the chances of getting ulcers or gastritis, as well as other gastrointestinal diseases (for example, functional dyspepsia, a digestive disorder, may develop).
Ulcers can form in the digestive tract, including the lower part of the throat (esophagus), stomach, and intestines. Ulcers are usually caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori or result from:
- excessive secretion of stomach acid;
- long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
- diseases of the digestive tract.
Symptoms of a stomach ulcer depend on the severity of the ulcer. The most common symptom that occurs in men and women is a burning or pain in the mid-abdomen (between the chest and belly button). The pain is usually worse when the stomach is empty and can last from a few minutes to several hours. Other signs of a stomach ulcer include:
- dull pain in the abdomen;
- loss of appetite and weight;
- nausea or vomiting, as well as bloating;
- feeling of fullness, belching, heartburn or acid reflux.
Symptoms of anemia may also occur, which include fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, dark stools, and vomiting blood. If a person experiences symptoms of a stomach ulcer, they should consult a doctor. Even if the discomfort is barely noticeable, the ulcer can increase in size if left untreated. Bleeding ulcers can be life-threatening because they cause bleeding.
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that most often results from infection with the bacteria that cause most stomach ulcers (for example, Helicobacter pylori). Regular consumption of alcohol and certain painkillers can also contribute to the development of the disease.
Gastritis can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or develop over time (chronic gastritis). In some cases, gastritis can lead to ulcers and increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. However, for most people, gastritis can be cured quickly with timely and proper treatment.
Diagnosis of ulcers and gastritis is carried out by a doctor using laboratory tests such as blood tests, biopsy of stomach tissue, gastroscopy, and gastric acidity tests.
A diet for gastritis and ulcers involves avoiding fatty foods and alcohol, as well as including in the diet:
- high fiber foods (whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans);
- lean fish and meat;
- non-carbonated and decaffeinated drinks.
Do you have allergies or intestinal dysbiosis?
Waking up in the morning, you looked in the mirror and saw bright spots of redness on your face and body, accompanied by itching. “Is this an allergy?” – you thought. “Where should I address this problem?” Of course, first of all, you will make an appointment with a dermatologist or allergist, who will definitely refer you to a specialist who deals with problems of digestion and the gastrointestinal tract - a gastroenterologist. According to many experts, most patients with signs of food allergies have certain diseases of the digestive system. According to statistics, chronic diseases of the digestive system precede the onset of food allergies in approximately 53% of patients, and develop after the appearance of allergy symptoms in 37% of patients. In other patients, symptoms of any gastrointestinal disease and an allergic reaction occur simultaneously, or manifestations of food allergies are not accompanied by obvious digestive disorders.
Increased permeability of the intestinal mucosa to allergens can occur as a result of certain hereditary and acquired disorders. For example, various nutritional disorders (increased consumption of animal fats compared to the consumption of vegetable fats, lack of easily digestible proteins in food, as well as vitamins, fasting), frequent stressful situations, alcohol abuse, heavy smoking - all this adversely affects the condition of the intestinal barrier.
Among the most common disorders in patients with food allergies are diseases of the liver and biliary tract, accompanied by a violation of the outflow of bile. Insufficient flow of bile into the intestine leads to disturbances in the digestion of food, changes in the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium and promotes the absorption of insufficiently cleaved protein molecules that have allergenic properties and can also cause pseudo-allergic reactions by stimulating the release of biologically active substances from target cells. It is pseudoallergic reactions that are most often observed in diseases of the liver (chronic hepatitis) and biliary tract (biliary dyskinesia, chronic cholecystocholangitis).
Many patients with various manifestations of food allergies are diagnosed with diseases of the gastroduodenal zone - chronic gastritis and (or) duodenitis, as well as peptic ulcers. In this case, the microbe Helicobacter pylori is very often detected in the stomach, which is now given great importance as the cause of inflammatory changes in the gastroduodenal zone and the formation of ulcers. Patients with Helicobacter pylori infection have a more severe course of some allergic diseases, in particular bronchial asthma, and other manifestations of allergies are also more common
Intestinal dysbiosis (dysbacteriosis) plays a major role in the development of allergic reactions in the digestive tract, skin and respiratory tract.
In healthy people, the large intestine normally contains a large number of different bacteria. For example, 1 g of cecal contents contains 2 billion microbes. Normal microflora of the large intestine is necessary to maintain homeostasis (constancy of the internal composition) of the body. The largest amount of normal microflora is represented by bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. The biologically active substances they secrete (bacterial modulins) stimulate the intestinal lymphoid apparatus, the synthesis of immunoglobulins, interferon, lysozyme - anti-infective protective agents, and reduce vascular permeability to toxic products of pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. In addition, normal intestinal microflora ensures the synthesis of various vitamins, biologically active substances that affect the function of not only the gastrointestinal tract, but also the liver, heart and many other organs. Normal intestinal microflora secretes hormonally active substances, compounds with antibiotic activity, and also stimulates the physiological activity of the intestine and ensures normal stool.
Intestinal dysbiosis is widespread, and there are a large number of factors contributing to its development. These include various nutritional disorders, in particular a deficiency of plant fiber in the diet, the predominance of refined carbohydrates and shelf-stable foods with the addition of all kinds of preservatives. Another important reason for the development of dysbiosis is the use of medications that affect the microbial landscape of the large intestine. These primarily include antibiotics and other antibacterial agents. But that’s not all: various occupational hazards, unfavorable sanitary and hygienic living conditions, including environmental changes, climatic and geographical influences (moving from temperate climate zones to hot countries and vice versa), as well as many diseases, especially infectious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, contribute to the development of intestinal dysbiosis.
It should be remembered that intestinal dysbiosis not only affects the development of allergic reactions, but also contributes to a more severe course of many chronic and acute diseases of internal organs.
Particularly dangerous is the increased proliferation of microorganisms in the small intestine - the so-called bacterial overgrowth syndrome, which occurs when the normal motor activity of the intestine is disrupted for various reasons and the contents of the large intestine flow back into the small intestine. As a result, in the latter, the number of microorganisms increases thousands of times, reaching 1 million microbial bodies in 1 ml of intestinal contents. The negative effect of intestinal dysbiosis, in particular its effect on the development of food allergies, is noted even before manifestations of intestinal dysbiosis itself arise (stool disturbances, bloating and pain in the abdomen, etc.). During the development of dysbiosis, the content of normal bifido- and lactoflora in the colon decreases, the content of E. coli changes quantitatively and qualitatively, some microorganisms (in particular, staphylococci) acquire properties that are not characteristic of them normally - to carry out hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), and in more In severe cases, pathogenic microorganisms, including fungi, multiply in the intestines - either they should not be present at all, or they are present in small quantities.
In people with intestinal dysbiosis, the permeability of the intestinal mucosa to potentially allergenic substances increases; in addition, pathogenic and opportunistic microflora themselves can secrete such substances. Dysbiosis also contributes to the development of inflammatory changes in the intestines, which further facilitates the penetration of allergens into the microorganism. It is currently believed that intestinal dysbiosis occurs in almost 100% of patients with pseudoallergic reactions and in 50-60% of patients with true allergic reactions.
Only after undergoing a complete examination and treatment of the gastrointestinal tract by a gastroenterologist will you be able to finally cope with the problem of allergies in your body.
Myth No. 3: I have gastritis and need to follow a diet
Diet has no effect on the course of gastritis, although it plays an important role in the health of the digestive system. Treatment and diet for gastritis are indirectly related, but sometimes they can be mutually exclusive. Following a diet can make a difference in relieving symptoms and making you feel better.
What can you eat if you have gastritis? A healthy and proper diet for gastritis involves excluding fried, spicy and sour foods from the diet. It is necessary to include low-fat dishes, greens, vegetables and fruits in the menu.
Some studies claim that probiotics may help with stomach problems caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Stomach diseases, including gastritis, may require following a diet as prescribed by a doctor. For example, to prevent exacerbations and the development of other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, treatment of the stomach involves surgical intervention (in advanced cases).
Treatment of skin diseases does not work? Check your intestines!
Experienced dermatologists know that to look for the cause of acne, eczema, and peeling skin, you need to start looking from the intestines. Trying to fight the consequences of gastrointestinal pathologies is useless. Therefore, ointments, creams and lotions will not help.
Tormented by skin problems? Take a little time and go through the diagnostics. The price of an MRI of the intestine is much lower than the cost of treating skin diseases in dermatological clinics and beauty salons.
The right diet, medications to normalize intestinal function and physical activity will help quickly solve the problem. Swimming, yoga and aerobic exercise are best for this purpose.
Myth #4: Dairy products help with stomach ulcers
Dairy products cannot prevent or relieve stomach ulcers. Sometimes drinking cow's milk can even make the situation worse by causing the stomach to produce more acid than is necessary for the gastrointestinal tract to function properly.
In relieving pain from peptic ulcers, soy milk and a diet for stomach pain can be effective. If you have an ulcer, you should eat apples, pears, oatmeal and other foods high in fiber. Fiber reduces the amount of acid in the stomach, helping to relieve symptoms of bloating and pain associated with diseases of the digestive system. Research shows that a diet rich in fiber helps prevent the development of stomach ulcers.
Myth #5: If you don't eat fatty foods, gallstones will disappear on their own.
If you have gallstones, they will not go away if you give up fatty foods. Why do stones form in the gallbladder? Gallstones form due to an imbalance in the chemical composition of bile in the gallbladder. In most cases, due to an unhealthy diet, the cholesterol level in the bile becomes too high. Over time, excess cholesterol turns into stones.
British scientists estimate that more than 1 in 10 adults have gallstones, although not all people may experience symptoms. The risk of developing gallstones increases if you are diagnosed as overweight or obese. As people age, they may develop gallstones (usually after age 40 or older).
Signs of a gallstone:
- abdominal pain;
- nausea, vomiting;
- symptoms of jaundice (yellowish skin or eyes).
Can gallstones be cured? With timely treatment and switching to a healthy diet for gallstones, symptoms may disappear. If complications occur (acute pancreatitis or cholecystitis, cholangitis, gallbladder perforation), surgery to remove the gallbladder may be recommended.
What can you eat if you have gallstones? For adults and children, a diet for gallstones is mandatory. Must be included in the menu:
- fresh fruits and vegetables;
- whole grains (whole grain bread, brown rice, bran cereal);
- lean meat, poultry and fish;
- low-fat dairy products.
Myth No. 6: if a child has diathesis, you need to exclude all foods that cause allergies.
Feeding a child with diathesis does not imply the exclusion of foods that cause allergies. Diathesis is a syndrome that complexly signals pathologies, including allergies. Symptoms of atopic dermatitis are usually called diathesis, and doctors do not recommend limiting children’s diet. Also, rashes on a child’s cheeks may indicate the development of chronic diseases.
What causes diathesis? The syndrome can develop due to the interaction of the child’s body with chemicals, dust, and also due to non-compliance with the diet. Diet for diathesis includes avoiding allergenic foods (honey, eggs, citrus fruits, confectionery). Also, the menu for diathesis requires the exclusion of red foods (raspberries, strawberries), seafood, cocoa and chocolate. Prohibited foods for diathesis can be allowed by a doctor after completing a course of treatment in small dosages.
Reading the face
Manifestations of skin lesions depend on the nature and degree of gastrointestinal pathology.
Food allergies
Food allergy is hypersensitivity and intolerance to certain substances (seafood, milk, chicken eggs). When the immune function of the intestine is impaired (and up to 80% of immune-competent cells are located in the gastrointestinal mucosa), the permeability of the walls increases. As a result, allergens enter the bloodstream, causing erythema, urticaria, and dermatitis on the skin. Also possible clinical manifestations in the form of rhinitis or, for example, Quincke's edema.
Malabsorption syndrome
Impaired absorption of microelements and vitamins leads to the launch of various mechanisms, manifested by changes in the skin.
Manifestations of vitamin deficiency:
- retinol (vitamin A) - scaly, hard skin with a papular rash, dystrophy of the nail plate, hair loss;
- riboflavin (vitamin B2) - cracks on the lips, stomatitis, peeling of the skin on the wings of the nose;
- nicotinic acid (vitamin PP) - dermatitis with itching and burning, erythematous rashes.
Malabsorption syndrome often develops against the background of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. These diseases may cause damage to the colon and other parts of the digestive tract. Skin manifestations are characterized by erythema nodosum, necrotizing vasculitis, epidermolysis bullosa, etc.
Myth #7: You need to diet to lower cholesterol.
If you have high cholesterol, you need to eat a healthy diet rather than go on a diet. Fatty foods and smoked foods, as well as spicy and fried foods, contribute to an increase in the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Nutrition for high cholesterol should include healthy foods that promote normal functioning of blood flow, heart and blood vessels (vegetables, fruits, greens).
How to lower cholesterol? You need to choose healthier fats (found in vegetable oils, nuts, sesame seeds) and monitor the total amount of fat consumed. Dietary fats in the total calorie content of dishes should be no more than 25–35%. You can’t completely give up consuming fats, which are necessary for the body to function properly.
What to eat if you have high cholesterol? A healthy and proper diet to reduce blood cholesterol involves partial or complete avoidance of saturated fats and trans fats. These fats are found in some meat and dairy products, chocolate, baked goods, confectionery, and processed foods. The harm of fatty foods affects the functioning of the liver and cardiovascular system.
A diet for high cholesterol includes consumption of:
- whole grain cereals (oatmeal and bran);
- fruits (apples, bananas, oranges, pears) and dried fruits (dried apricots, prunes);
- legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas, peas).
How to check your intestines?
Colonoscopy is an informative, but unpleasant and painful procedure that not everyone decides to undergo. In addition, it has a number of contraindications: inflammation of the peritoneum, intestinal ischemia, tumors, acute cardiovascular failure, etc.
But there is a safe and painless alternative to colonoscopy - an MRI of the intestine. During the procedure, the patient does not experience pain, he does not need to overcome a psychological barrier.
The sensations of magnetic resonance therapy can be compared to conventional radiography. The only difference is the duration of the procedure. An MRI lasts, on average, 15-40 minutes (depending on the scope of research and the device), and x-rays are done instantly.
