Vitiligo is a skin condition where the pigments are lost from areas of the skin, turning them white. You may have heard a lot about the vitiligo diet. But the fact remains that there is no recommended diet for vitiligo that is supported by any concrete scientific data. Nonetheless, skin specialists recommend a healthy diet for boosting the immune system. It is believed that vitiligo is an autoimmune disease and a strong immune system can prevent the spread of the depigmentation. So you can easily call this diet vitiligo diet plan, if you may.
A Definitive Fact:
- People suffering from vitiligo may have to consume a special diet to prevent their skin condition from worsening or to overcome nutritional deficiencies.
- Since vitiligo is an autoimmune disease, it is prudent to eat a diet that is rich in phytochemicals, beta carotene and antioxidants. Such a diet will boost the immune system and promote healthy skin, perhaps paving way for re-pigmentation of the skin.
- If you have vitiligo, you should avoid consuming pears and blueberries, as these fruits are natural sources of hydroquinones, which are known to have depigmentation properties.
- Some people also face problems with citrus fruits, while others may find turmeric, which is used as a seasoning in foods, causing problems.
- Hence, if you fall under these categories, you should avoid citrus fruits and/or turmeric.
- Some people prefer to avoid red meats and dairy products. However, there is no scientific evidence to back this. If you have an underlying allergy to dairy, you should avoid it, as it may adversely affect your vitiligo.
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Overcoming Nutritional Deficiencies:
Researchers have found that people suffering from vitiligo often are deficit in vitamin B12 and certain minerals, such as zinc and copper. You should get your vitamin levels checked and if found to be deficit, you should speak to your doctor about taking supplements or overcoming the deficiencies through foods rich in those vitamins. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in soy milk, fish, shellfish, dairy products and meat.
If you have folate and zinc deficiency, look to include leafy green vegetables, fruits, peas, dried beans, legumes and nuts in your daily diet.
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The Vitiligo Diet and Lifestyle Changes:
As mentioned earlier, there is no real vitiligo diet per se. However, you should be looking to support your condition by following a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Try to consume a plant-centric diet comprising of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Make sure a major bulk of your diet consists of these food items, as long as you do not find it difficult in digesting them.
- In case you yearn for animal products, opt for wild fish and organic eggs. It is best to cook them lightly or consume them as raw as possible.
- If you are vegan, you may have vitamin B12 and DHA deficiencies. Hence, take supplements to overcome these deficiencies.
- There is no doubt that having vitiligo can make you depressed and upset, as your condition can be seen by others. Hence, it is important to manage your stress levels and maintain a healthy mind. Try doing yoga or joining a vitiligo support group to manage emotional stressors.
- Try getting adequate exposure to sunlight. Not only will it ensure you have adequate levels of vitamin D, it also may stimulate re-pigmentation. Melanocytes in the skin tend to produce melanin when exposed to sunlight and this facilities darkening of the skin to protect it from getting burned.
While vitiligo cannot be cured, consuming a vitiligo diet that fulfils your body’s nutritional demands will allow you to lead a healthy and long life. And, if you learn to cope with your condition, you will be able to lead a stress-free life. You should also speak to your doctor about taking natural supplements, like gingko biloba, as it may slow down the progression of depigmentation.
