Rosacea, sometimes called acne rosacea, is a relatively common condition, especially in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Men suffer from rosacea less commonly, but more severely.

The usual areas to be affected by the facial flushing and acne-like eruptions are the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Groups of capillaries close to the surface of the skin become dilated, resulting in blotchy red areas with small bumps and pimples.

There is evidence that many people with rosacea have reduced stomach acid and reduced enzymes needed for fat digestion. These can be supplemented in capsule form (see below). Food intolerance is also frequently involved and nutrition consultants will be able to arrange for testing.

Nutrition Facts & Diet Advice for Rosacea

Consider the following nutrition guidelines:

Eat a diet high in fibre, with plenty of raw and lightly steamed vegetables, and whole grains such as brown rice, millet, buckwheat, oats, amaranth, quinoa and spelt.
Use fresh vegetable juices. Consider buying a juicer and a book on juicing.
Eat berries, e.g. bilberry, blueberry, blackberry, etc. for vitamin C and bioflavonoid content.
Avoid foods which cause flushing, e.g. hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, coffee.
Avoid beef, pork, lamb and the skin of chicken and turkey, as well as dairy produce. These promote inflammation.
Avoid fried foods for the same reason.
Avoid salt and sugar.
Allow food to cool slightly before eating it.
A vegetarian or vegan diet may be best suited. Do take care to get all the nutrients you need if you decide to become vegan – see a nutrition consultant if possible, who can check for food intolerances and leaky gut at the same time.

Health Supplements for Rosacea

Often, a combination of supplements may help in alleviating this condition. You may wish to consult a nutritional therapist for personal advice. Supplements that may be helpful in alleviating symptoms are shown below:

Recommended Books

health book - Rosacea: Your Self-Help Guide