Five “Health” Foods That Will Break You Out

Knowing what to eat these days isn’t easy! There are so many theories out there. Plus, all people have different genetic makeup, so their “ideal” diet may be different. In the last edition of the Skin(nie) we talked about “junky” white foods (like sugar, processed carbs, white rice, and milk) being the main acne culprits. But how about some common healthy(ish) foods people are eating without any idea they are triggering acne? Here are five foods you may be surprised to learn are not acne-friendly, at least not in large quantities or frequently.

Tofu

While tofu is a protein-packed option for vegans and meat-eaters alike, be careful to not make it a food you eat more than once every couple of weeks if you’re acne-prone. It is derived from soy, which is acne-triggering in many. You may not have that specific trigger, so if you are clear and eat tofu often keep going – but if you are breaking out, then cut tofu out of your regular weekly diet. Also, look through ingredients in other health foods and vegan meats for secret soy. At the very least, it may be helpful to opt for organic soy which can have less potential to alter hormones. 

Peanuts

Peanuts spike androgen levels which create more sebum (oil) production. Sadly, this includes everyone's favorite – peanut butter. Other nut butter options are totally fine. Similar to tofu, if you eat peanut butter all the time and are clear – then keep going. But if you are dealing with acne, find an alternative ASAP for enjoying regularly and keep peanut butter for when you are really craving it.

Protein Bars

A true sign of an acne expert is an obsession with reading ingredient labels! This is true for cosmetics and food. Similar to the famous Notorious B.I.G quote, we say, “mo ingredients, mo problems.” While processed foods are hard on acne and hard on health, protein bars are the ultimate tricky health food because they are full of whey, peanuts, iodine, sugar, and soy. So the acne triggers are endless. Look for low sugar counts and whole food ingredients. Opt for pure pea, seed, or collagen protein over whey and soy. And also work to avoid dairy and peanuts. Sorry to tell you, if it tastes like raw cookie dough, it’s probably not healthy.

Pre-Workout Drinks (like Athletic Greens)

We aren’t trying to call out this popular super drink as not healthy. It absolutely is and can be a great product for people who aren’t acne-prone. Unfortunately, if you are acne-prone, you need to avoid high levels of biotin and B12. As a rule of thumb, keep your intake at less than 100% daily value. Look closely at the ingredient decks of any daily juices. Also, watch out for algaes, blue magik, chlorella, and spirulina. Those have high iodine content which is problematic as well. If you are clear, then don’t worry – but if you are breaking out, then you need to dive deeper. 

Eggs

This is a newer hot topic food when it comes to acne. It is also a very nutritious food, especially for vegetarians that eat eggs for B12, protein, omegas, and other benefits. However, some people have trouble processing eggs and they are a common allergen. Also, they may spike progesterone levels. If higher testosterone is your acne trigger, then eggs may contribute to your pores clogging. In our opinion, this only applies to tricky acne cases and people who eat eggs every day. If either applies to you, then try cutting eggs (and only eggs) for at least three weeks and note any changes.