What Foods Should Be Avoided in Case of Skin Allergy?
Jul 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Individuals with skin allergies should avoid spicy and irritating foods, such as chili peppers, Sichuan-style hotpot, spicy duck heads, and spicy skewers. Alcohol—including beer, baijiu (Chinese distilled spirit), and red wine—must also be avoided. Additionally, seasonings like Sichuan peppercorns and mustard, as well as raw scallions, fresh ginger, and raw garlic, should be excluded from the diet. Foods high in histamine—such as shellfish, fish, beef, lamb, and imitation crab sticks—may trigger allergic reactions and should therefore be avoided.
Skin allergies are typically directly linked to an individual’s constitutional predisposition. People with an allergic constitution are more susceptible to developing skin allergies upon exposure to external allergens or consumption of foods known to trigger allergic reactions. Common manifestations include pruritus (itching), urticaria (hives), and angioedema. So, which foods should be avoided in cases of skin allergy?
Foods to Avoid with Skin Allergy
Spicy and irritating foods—such as chili peppers, spicy hotpot, spicy duck heads, and spicy skewers—should be avoided. Alcohol—including beer, baijiu (Chinese distilled spirit), and red wine—must also be avoided. Additionally, condiments such as Sichuan pepper, mustard, raw scallions, fresh ginger, and raw garlic are prohibited. Foods high in histamine—such as shellfish, certain fish species, beef, lamb, and imitation crab sticks—should likewise be avoided.
Moreover, photosensitizing foods may also provoke skin allergies. Examples include celery, leeks, and cilantro. Excessive intake of these foods increases the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, thereby exacerbating allergic symptoms; thus, their consumption is not recommended.
Skin allergy is a dermatological condition triggered by multiple allergens and influenced by various factors. Contact with chemical substances—such as detergents and alkaline solutions—may also induce allergic reactions. Tropical fruits—including mangoes, pineapples, and lychees—are common dietary allergens. These allergens enter the body via routes including skin penetration, direct contact, nasal inhalation, ingestion, and mucosal absorption, leading to typical cutaneous allergic symptoms. We hope this information proves helpful!
