Can millets help with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin diseases?

When it comes to maintaining good health, diet plays an essential role. But did you know that what you eat can also affect your skin? For people suffering from skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin diseases, dietary changes can bring notable benefits. One such dietary change gaining attention is incorporating millets. But can millets really help with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis? Let's take a closer look about millets help with skin diseases.

What are millets?

Millets are small-seeded grains that have been cultivated for thousands of years. They are rich in nutrients like fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Common varieties of millets include pearl millet, finger millet, foxtail millet, and barnyard millet. These grains are not only nutritious but also naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for people with gluten sensitivity.

Nutritional value of millets

Millets contain essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, copper, and vitamins B and E. They are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. They also provide anti-inflammatory compounds, which can assist in reducing chronic inflammation. This nutrient profile makes millets a promising food to add to your diet, especially for those dealing with inflammatory skin conditions.

The connection between diet and skin diseases

Diet has a significant impact on skin health. Conditions like eczema and psoriasis are often linked to inflammation, poor immune response, and gut health. Foods that promote inflammation can worsen skin problems, while anti-inflammatory foods can help alleviate symptoms. Research suggests that a diet rich in whole grains, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds can support skin health.

How can millets help with eczema?

Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by redness, itching, and flaky skin. It is often linked to immune system dysfunction and inflammation. Millets can help with eczema in several ways:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties: Millets contain phytochemicals and polyphenols that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce flare-ups and alleviate the itching and redness associated with eczema.
2. Rich in magnesium: Magnesium plays a vital role in reducing inflammation in the body. Research shows that magnesium deficiency can worsen skin conditions. Millets are a good source of magnesium, which helps maintain healthy skin and reduce eczema symptoms.
3. Gut health: Gut health plays a crucial role in managing eczema. Millets are rich in dietary fibre, which helps improve digestion and support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome is essential in reducing inflammation and improving overall skin health.

Can millets alleviate psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder characterized by scaly patches and inflammation. It is primarily triggered by an overactive immune system and chronic inflammation. Millets can offer the following benefits to people with psoriasis:

1. Boosting immune system: Psoriasis is closely linked to immune system dysfunction. Millets contain zinc, a mineral known to boost the immune system. Adequate zinc levels can help regulate immune responses and decrease the occurrence of psoriasis flare-ups.
2. Rich in antioxidants: The antioxidants found in millets, such as phenolic acids, help fight oxidative stress, which can worsen psoriasis symptoms. By reducing oxidative stress, millets help maintain healthier skin and reduce flare-ups.
3. Blood sugar regulation: Studies have shown that people with psoriasis are often at a higher risk of developing diabetes. Millets have a low glycaemic index, which means they help regulate blood sugar levels. Controlling blood sugar can improve psoriasis symptoms and promote better skin health.

Millets help with skin diseases

In addition to eczema and psoriasis, millets can benefit overall skin health in several ways:

• Hydration: Millets contain amino acids that help in skin hydration. Consuming millets regularly can help keep your skin moisturized and reduce dryness.
• Rich in vitamin E: Vitamin E is a well-known antioxidant that promotes skin health by protecting it from oxidative damage. Millets are a good source of Vitamin E, which supports skin repair and regeneration.
• Detoxification: Millets are high in fibre, which aids in detoxifying the body. A body free from toxins reflects on the skin, making it clearer and healthier.

Scientific research on millets and skin health

Several studies indicate the benefits of millets for skin health:

• Anti-inflammatory effects: A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods highlighted the anti-inflammatory effects of finger millet. The polyphenols found in millets can help in reducing systemic inflammation, which benefits skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
• Gut health and inflammation: Research in the Journal of Nutrition shows that fibre-rich foods like millets can improve gut health and reduce inflammation. Since gut health is closely linked to skin health, improving digestion can help alleviate skin issues.
• Immune system support: A study from the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that millets contain significant levels of zinc and selenium, both of which are crucial for immune function. Improved immune response can help mitigate autoimmune reactions, which are often the cause of skin flare-ups in conditions like psoriasis.
• Antioxidant properties: According to research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, millets are rich in phenolic compounds, which act as antioxidants. These compounds help protect skin cells from oxidative stress, a major contributor to skin aging and flare-ups in inflammatory skin conditions.
• Vitamin E benefits: Another study in the Dermatology Research and Practice journal highlighted that Vitamin E, abundant in millets, plays a significant role in maintaining skin health, reducing scarring, and promoting skin healing.

While direct studies on millets and specific skin conditions are limited, the overall benefits of millets in managing inflammation and supporting immune health are well documented. These properties make millets a good dietary choice for individuals looking to improve their skin health naturally.

Conclusion

Millets are a nutrient-dense food that can support overall health, including skin health. For people suffering from eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions, millets may offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting benefits. While more research is needed to understand the direct effects of millets on these skin conditions, incorporating them into your diet can be a step toward better skin health.

Adding millets to your daily diet is easy, and their potential benefits for skin and general well-being make them worth considering. If you suffer from skin issues, making dietary changes, including millets, could bring significant improvements. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before making major dietary changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Image Courtesy: ACCENTERRA

REMEMBER: While millets can be a promising natural remedy to help support skin health, it should be part of a comprehensive approach. Maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular exercise, are all crucial for one’s general well-being.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.

Did you find this blog post helpful? Got ideas or questions? Join the conversation below! Your insights could help others too, so don’t hesitate to share!
Please note that all comments will be moderated before being published.