Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can be an uncomfortable, painful, and potentially embarrassing condition. The exact cause of Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is unknown, but being overweight is a risk factor for developing the condition. Although there is no singular diet recommended for hidradenitis suppurativa, what you eat can influence the severity of your symptoms.
Understanding Hidradenitis Suppurativa and the Role of Diet
Hidradenitis suppurativa can affect anyone regardless of weight, and a number of factors may contribute to the development of the condition. However, being overweight is believed to be a potential trigger for the disease. A 2014 study found that hidradenitis suppurativa was more prevalent in people with obesity. Every person with hidradenitis suppurativa is different and will react differently to foods. There is limited research into what exactly causes hidradenitis suppurativa or what contributes to flares.
General Dietary Guidelines
There is no singular diet recommended for people with hidradenitis suppurativa and research in this area remains limited. However, some studies suggest diets low in sugar, processed foods, and dairy and high in plants and anti-inflammatory foods may be beneficial.
The Mediterranean Diet: A Potential Strategy
There is some limited evidence that the Mediterranean diet, which favors anti-inflammatory fish, olive oil, nuts, and fruits and vegetables, may be effective at managing hidradenitis suppurativa. The Mediterranean diet makes it easy to incorporate these strategies while also increasing intake of other known anti-inflammatory foods, such as olive oil, fish, and whole grains. One study found a correlation between the Mediterranean diet and disease responsiveness, with those eating the most anti-inflammatory foods having the fewest symptoms.
Key Components of the Mediterranean Diet
On the Mediterranean diet, you'll avoid processed carbs and limit dairy products and red meat. Instead, you'll fill up on plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains (like farro, whole wheat berries, and multigrain bread), and healthy fat sources (such as olive oil, olive, almonds, walnuts, avocados, and fatty fish, like salmon, sardines, and cod). You'll also enjoy moderate amounts of lean sources of protein like chicken, fish, and eggs.
Read also: The Hoxsey Diet
Implementing the Mediterranean Diet
Following a Mediterranean diet may be easier and more delicious than you think. The Mediterranean diet is a lifestyle change and should be followed daily. Starting to eat a Mediterranean diet can be intimidating at first, especially if you're not used to cooking with lots of fresh produce, olive oil, and fish. Implementing the Mediterranean diet doesn't need to mean spending lots of money or cooking complicated meals.
Practical Tips for Adopting the Mediterranean Diet
- Drizzle on olive oil. Switch your cooking fats to olive oil whenever possible, and drizzle the oil on salads and steamed vegetables for extra flavor.
- Prep produce in advance. Studies show having precut and washed fruits and veggies in the fridge helps people eat more of these antioxidant-rich foods.
- Stick to whole grains: Swap out refined breads and pasta for hearty whole-wheat pasta and opt for whole-wheat multigrain bread and brown rice when possible. Also make a point to try other whole grains, such as farro, quinoa, barley, wheat berries, and oats.
- Use meat as a condiment. Small amounts of bacon or beef can pack a lot of flavor.
- Experiment with flavor.
- Lunch: Try a Greek-inspired salad with a base of mixed greens, tuna, chopped tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and kalamata olives.
Supplements and Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Research suggests that certain supplements may be helpful for people with hidradenitis suppurativa, but always check with your healthcare provider before taking a supplement.
Specific Supplements to Consider
- Zinc: This mineral may be beneficial in reducing flare-ups, but research in this area is limited. Too much zinc can cause harmful side effects, however, so it is important to talk with your doctor before taking this supplement.
- Vitamin D: This nutrient is known to help modulate inflammation in the body.
In addition to vitamins and minerals, there is some promising research being done to explore the role of probiotics (live microorganisms that may promote gut health) in managing symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa.
Other Considerations
Turmeric can be useful in reducing cellular inflammation. As such, it may reduce symptoms in people with hidradenitis suppurativa. However, the evidence is limited.
Important Note
There is no evidence to suggest a single diet, including the Mediterranean diet, will be beneficial for everyone with hidradenitis suppurativa.
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