Does skipping meals affect acne?

We’ve all heard it since we were young…breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But for many reasons in society, we’ve drifted away from that and it’s almost a badge of honor to skip breakfast or only have two meals a day or fast for extended periods. So let’s cut right to the chase - yes, absolutely skipping meals indeed does affect acne.

Though yes, the art of fasting can be beneficial for many health reasons, populations, etc. that is NOT what I’m referring to in this post. If you are struggling to clear your acne and consistently skipping breakfast, lunch, or dinner - here is your sign to stop.

Skipping meals can have a significant impact on acne healing, as it disrupts the delicate balance of blood sugar and cortisol levels in the body. Regular, balanced meals play a crucial role in maintaining stable blood sugar levels and preventing spikes and crashes that can trigger hormonal fluctuations. When you skip meals, your body may experience a drop in blood sugar, prompting the release of stress hormones such as cortisol to mobilize stored glucose. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to increased sebum production in the skin, which is a contributing factor to acne development.

Furthermore, a well-rounded, nutritious diet provides essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for skin health. Nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc, play key roles in supporting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin repair. Skipping meals can result in a deficiency of these crucial nutrients, hindering the body's ability to combat inflammation and promote healing. Additionally, proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and supporting detoxification processes that aid in acne recovery.

In conclusion, consistent and balanced meals are integral to acne healing. They help regulate blood sugar levels, control cortisol production and provide the necessary nutrients for optimal skin health. Skipping meals can disrupt this delicate balance, potentially exacerbating acne and hindering the body's natural healing processes.

Through my own experience and seeing patients, breakfast is easily the biggest offender. Respectfully, I don’t care who you are, what you have going on in your life, etc. - you DESERVE to give yourself the time to spend an extra couple of minutes preparing something to eat when you wake up. As a simple, general guideline - ideally eating within 30-60 minutes of waking up and having a meal with a healthy source of carbohydrates, fat, and protein is the goal!

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER - All content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for advice and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.