Optimal nutrition is essential for everyone, especially when it comes to taking vitamins. Not only can certain vitamins help manage eczema but they can improve our overall health.
Over the last few decades, an increasing number of studies are finding that dietary changes can help individuals with eczema. Taking vitamin supplements to manage nutrient deficiencies plays a role in managing eczema. It can help reduce inflammation and reduce the severity of flare-ups.
The main vitamins that help manage eczema are Vitamins D, E, and B12. So, to help prevent flare-ups and relieve symptoms, one must consume these nutrients. You can do this through your diet and high-quality supplements.
In this article, we’ll review how these vitamins directly affect eczema and how they can help you.
Eczema and Vitamin D Deficiency
You may be under the impression that your diet provides all of your essential vitamins. The truth is, when it comes to Vitamin D, the best source is actually exposure to sunlight.
There are some foods you can eat that contain Vitamin D. Three-ounce servings of rainbow trout or salmon offer 81 and 71% of daily requirements. Cod liver oil supplements are a great source of Vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acids, too. Some foods, especially milk, have it, but some individuals with eczema can’t have cow’s dairy.
Vitamin D plays a key role in building and maintaining healthy bones. It regulates many cell functions in the body and supports a healthy immune system. Vitamin D fights inflammation, has antioxidant qualities, and promotes skin, brain, and muscle health.
A review of multiple studies concluded that vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin B12 may be useful in the treatment of eczema. This proves vitamin supplementation is a viable treatment option for eczema.
In the case of supplements, research studies found that Vitamin D levels are inversely associated with the severity of eczema. In other words, the more deficient someone is in Vitamin D, the more likely they are to experience eczema.
While the typical dose of vitamin D supplements is between 1000-2000 IU for adults, the 25-hydroxy Vitamin D [ (25 OH) D] test is the best way to check levels.
Vitamin E
Like Vitamin D, Vitamin E also has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. It supports a healthy immune response, brain, and skin. It also plays an important role in vision and reproduction.
Many creams and anti-aging products include vitamin E because it improves moisture and elasticity of the skin. As a result, vitamin E promotes healthy, youthful skin. It can also help manage eczema, too.
A review of two randomized controlled trials evaluated the impact of Vitamin E on SCORAD, a scoring index that combines the extent, severity, and symptoms of eczema. Researchers concluded Vitamin E supplementation improved this index. The participants of these studies received 400 IU and 600 IU of Vitamin E daily.
To optimize the benefits for eczema, use Vitamin E in the form of mixed tocopherols, rather than alpha-tocopherol. Don’t overdose with Vitamin E. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin and accumulates in body tissues. Vitamin E-rich foods include wheat germ oil, nuts, seeds, vegetable oil, avocado, and fatty fish.
Vitamin B12
There are many benefits to Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin. It belongs to the Vitamin B family, which convert food to energy and helps red blood cell production and DNA. It also promotes a healthy brain, skin, heart, and digestion. Among the B vitamins, B12 seems to be especially helpful in managing eczema symptoms.
Analysts reviewed two clinical trials, both randomized and controlled. They found the SCORAD index decreased with the application of topical creams containing B12. This is great news for those with eczema.
Vitamin B12-rich foods are mainly animal products such as meats, eggs, and dairy. Vegetarians, vegans, the elderly, and those with digestion issues are more likely to have a B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 is available in capsules, liquid form, injections, or creams. Choose the methylcobalamin form of Vitamin B12 vs cyanocobalamin B12.
Conclusion
In addition to the vitamins discussed, consider taking Vitamin C as well. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. We didn’t cover minerals in this article, but they are also essential for skin health. Magnesium, Zinc, and Selenium are especially helpful. Omega-3 essential fatty acids also show benefits to manage eczema symptoms too.
Remember, supplements don’t replace a healthy diet. Instead, use them along with a well-balanced diet. Your diet should include vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, nuts, seeds, healthy oils, lean meats, and fish. Choose homemade meals from wholesome foods rather than highly processed foods.
High-quality sleep, about seven to eight hours, is also essential. Incorporate routine exercise and other healthy habits to help you manage eczema.
