The Hidden Connection Between Eczema and Gut Health

Eczema and Gut Health
November 23, 2021

Eczema is a condition in which patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, cracked, rough, and sometimes even cause blisters. Scientists are now slowly understanding the role of the human microbiome in the appearance of chronic conditions like eczema.

Recent studies have linked eczema and skin microbiome health. Gut health refers to the physical state and has been linked to the cause and treatment of eczema.

The Root Cause of Eczema

The root cause of eczema is unknown. However, it occurs due to an overactive immune system responding aggressively if exposed to triggers.

What Foods to Avoid if You Have Eczema?

Leaky gut and eczema are potentially connected. Food-sensitive eczema reactions are common and typically occur about 6 to 24 hours after eating a particular food. Some foods that can trigger eczema are:

  • Citrus fruits
  • Eggs
  • Spices like cloves and cinnamon
  • Tomatoes
  • Gluten or wheat
  • Dairy products
  • Soy
  • Some nuts

Ways to Heal Eczema Naturally

If you or your loved ones are struggling with eczema, you can follow these few steps to heal them naturally:

  • It’s best to determine the food(s) that can cause flare-ups and reduce or eliminate it from your diet.
  • Optimize your gut health to treat eczema and reverse gut dysbiosis by taking supplements that reduce inflammation, nourish, and heal the gut.
  • Adequate exercise and workouts can help reduce stress, which is a common eczema trigger.
  • Apply natural topical eczema treatments to the skin like herbal salves to moisturize, protect, and naturally heal the affected skin. (Patch test first to rule out any potential herb-related allergies.)

How to Cure Eczema Permanently

There is no permanent treatment for eczema. Treatment for the condition aims to heal the affected skin and prevent any more flares-ups. Here are a few treatments for the symptoms of eczema:

  • Take lukewarm baths and apply moisturizer within 2-3 minutes of a bath to keep your skin hydrated.
  • Avoid rough, scratchy fibers and tight-fitting clothes, and opt for soft or cotton fabrics.
  • Taking medications like ointments, oral medications,

What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky gut syndrome is a digestive condition that affects the intestine lining. In this syndrome, breaches in the intestinal walls let bacteria and other contaminants pass into the bloodstream.

An imbalance in the gut microbiota can trigger the body’s immune response. This can result in gut inflammation and increased intestinal permeability, allowing substances to leak out of the intestines into the bloodstream easily.

What are the Primary Symptoms of Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The most noticeable symptoms of the leaky gut syndrome are:

  • Diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, or gas
  • Chronic fatigue like fibromyalgia
  • Seasonal asthmatic or allergic symptoms
  • Hormonal imbalances like PCOS, PMS, etc.
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, etc.
  • Facing skin issues such as acne, eczema, or rash,
  • Arthritis
  • Food allergies and intolerances
  • Poor immune system

What Is the Main Cause of Leaky Gut?

There are four main causes for leaky gut:

  • Dysbiosis

Also referred to as bacterial imbalance, and is among the primary causes of leaky gut.

  • Poor Diet

Consuming a diet high in sugar, proteins from unsprouted grains, and dairy products.

  • Exposure to Stress

Long-term stress can weaken your immune system and inhibit your body’s ability to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses, triggering inflammation and causing a leaky gut.

  • Toxin Overload

Toxin overload occurs if your body is exposed to antibiotics, pesticides, aspirin, and contaminated tap water, leading to a leaky gut.

If you are looking for expert Board Certified doctors specializing in eczema and leaky gut syndrome treatment, the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine can help. Schedule an appointment with us today or call us at 843-572-1600 for more information.

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