What to Eat to Treat Vitiligo? | The role of nutrition in controlling and improving vitiligo
Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disease that causes white spots to appear on the body when skin pigmentation is lost. Although this disease is not contagious or dangerous, it can have a great psychological and social impact on patients. Many people with vitiligo seek ways to control and improve their symptoms. One of the most important and least known solutions is proper nutrition and diet modification.
In this article, we will answer the important question of what to eat to treat vitiligo and how proper nutrition can reduce the symptoms of this disease. We will also examine the role of supplements, food avoidances, and new methods such as light therapy in treating vitiligo.
What is vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). This attack leads to a reduction or loss of melanin in certain areas of the skin. The exact cause of this disorder is not yet fully understood, but genetic factors, stress, nutritional deficiencies, sunburn, and immune disorders are among the factors that contribute to its occurrence.
Why is nutrition important in the treatment of vitiligo?
Numerous studies have shown that there is a connection between the nutritional status of the body and the severity of vitiligo symptoms. Some vitamin and mineral deficiencies can exacerbate the progression of the disease. On the other hand, consuming anti-inflammatory foods, antioxidants, and certain compounds can help regenerate pigment-producing cells.
What to eat to treat vitiligo?
The following is a list of the most important foods that are beneficial for patients with vitiligo:
1. Foods rich in antioxidants
- Antioxidants play an important role in protecting melanocytes by reducing oxidative stress.
- Red and purple fruits: raspberries, blackberries, cherries
- Green leafy vegetables: spinach, broccoli, parsley
- Dark chocolate (with a high percentage)
- Green tea
2. Rich sources of vitamin C
- Vitamin C helps increase the body’s resistance and improve immune system function.
- Oranges, lemons, grapefruit
- Red bell peppers
- Kiwi and strawberries
3. Foods containing vitamin B12
- B12 deficiency is a known factor in exacerbating vitiligo.
- Eggs
- Fish (especially salmon and tuna)
- Low-fat red meat
- Dairy products
4. Foods containing Zinc
- Zinc is one of the most important minerals for skin health and pigment production.
- Nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts)
- Pumpkin and sunflower seeds
- Lentils, chickpeas, beans
5. Foods containing Copper
- Copper plays a role in the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is effective in the production of melanin.
- Sheep liver
- Dark chocolate
- Mushrooms, peas, nuts
6. Sources of Vitamin D
- Vitamin D can help balance the body’s immune system and control inflammation.
- Fatty fish
- Eggs
- Enriched dairy products
- Sunlight (at least 15 minutes a day)
Read More :Useful Vitamins for Skin Blemishes
Useful food supplements for vitiligo patients
Sometimes, diet alone is not enough, and taking supplements becomes necessary. The most important supplements recommended by experts:
- Vitamin B12 + folic acid: The combination of these two has been shown to reduce spots in some studies.
- Zinc and copper: In the form of syrup or tablets, with the appropriate dose
- Vitamin D3
- Antioxidants such as selenium and glutathione
Warning: Taking supplements should be under the supervision of a dermatologist or nutritionist.
What foods are harmful to vitiligo patients?
In addition to consuming beneficial foods, it is also very important to avoid certain foods:
1. Sugary and processed foods
- Sweets, soda, fast foods
- These substances damage pigment-producing cells by increasing inflammation.
2. Gluten (in some sensitive patients)
- White bread, pasta and cakes
- Some people with vitiligo have recovered by eliminating gluten.
3. Excessive consumption of citrus fruits (in some sensitive individuals)
- Excessive consumption may increase skin sensitivity and irritation of spots.
4. Allergic foods
- Peanuts, high-fat dairy, seafood
- It is recommended to check for food allergies with an allergy test.
Light therapy for the treatment of vitiligo in Iran
One of the most effective medical treatments, along with nutrition, is phototherapy. In this method, narrow-spectrum UVB light (nb-UVB) is used to irradiate the affected areas to stimulate melanin production.
Benefits of light therapy:
- Restore skin color in white areas
- Control the spread of the disease
- Gradual and non-invasive treatment
In many patients, a combination of healthy nutrition, supplements, and light therapy for the treatment of Vitiligos has yielded very successful results.
Read More:
Light Therapy for Vitiligo or Phototherapy
Vitiligo treatment in Shiraz
In the city of Shiraz, reputable medical centers and dermatologists offer advanced services in the field of Vitiligo treatment in Shiraz, Iran. Some of these services include:
- Special nutritional counseling for patients with Vitiligo
- Performing light therapy (UVB) in skin clinics
- Drug treatments (corticosteroids, tacrolimus, etc.)
- Excimer laser
- Psychological counseling to boost the patient’s morale
If you live in Shiraz or plan to receive treatment in this city, it is recommended to first consult with an experienced dermatologist to set up a suitable treatment plan, including nutrition, light therapy, and supplements for you.
Conclusion: What to eat to treat Vitiligo?
Proper nutrition is one of the most important complementary factors in the treatment of vitiligo. Although this disease has no definitive cure, with a principled diet, taking supplements, and clinical treatments, one can hope to control and even significantly improve its symptoms. Consuming foods rich in vitamin B12, zinc, copper, vitamin D, and antioxidants, along with avoiding inflammatory foods, can accelerate the recovery process.
In addition to nutrition, using light therapy to treat vitiligo and taking advantage of vitiligo treatment facilities in Shiraz are completely scientific and effective options for patients.
Frequently asked questions about nutrition and vitiligo treatment
1. Can diet treat vitiligo?
Diet is not a definitive cure, but it plays an important role in controlling and reducing the severity of the disease.
2. What is the best vitamin for vitiligo?
Vitamins B12, D, C and folic acid have had the greatest effect in research.
3. Is fasting permissible for vitiligo patients?
If a balanced diet is followed, there is no problem, but a doctor should be consulted.
4. Can sunlight be used for treatment?
Yes, sunlight is a natural source of UVB, but it must be controlled so as not to cause burns.
Visit a dermatologist
It is recommended to consult a skin and hair specialist. They can introduce you to specific tips and products to solve this problem.
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