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FAQ
In short, no.
Some people find that certain foods may worsen their vitiligo symptoms or that others may improve their skin condition. We found no scientific evidence that a specific diet can prevent, ease symptoms, treat or cure vitiligo.
It does not mean there is no possible link between nutrition and vitiligo, but the Diet-vs-Disease debate is too complex for simple generalizations. Investigators are just starting to look into the gut and skin microbiome of patients with vitiligo, and how it differs from the general population.
An essential matter for anyone suffering from vitiligo, is to ensure well-balanced, low-fat and high-fiber nutrition, supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids, - similar to Mediterranean style food. Extracts of Gingko Biloba and Polipodium Leukotomas could be used to supplement an ongoing therapy or as a prophylaxis to minimnize disease recurrence.
Contrary to many beliefs, gluten-free diet has no lasting effect on vitiligo and isn't very healthy, either. But some people noted that avoiding gluten have temporarily eased their vitiligo symptoms. If you or someone in your family has a history of food allergies, you can give it a try. Two to three months of a gluten-restricted diet is enough to see if it can help your vitiligo. It is best to get a confirmed diagnosis before you start messing with diet.
While a special diet may support your health in some ways, it is more likely to be harmful because it may contain too much of certain vitamins or not enough of others. Common vitamin deficiencies in people with autoimmune conditions like vitiligo include folic acid, B-12, copper and zinc. However, vitiligo is not caused by a vitamin deficiency and therefore CANNOT BE cured by vitamins alone.
- Vitamin supplements can have an opposite effect: for example, an excessive intake of Vitamin C can worsen vitiligo symptoms, so keep it at normal levels.
- People with vitiligo should keep their Vitamin D levels in the upper range of normal, with exception of conditions causing fat malabsorption. Continue reading: Shall I take vitamin D for my vitiligo?
These suggestions haven't been confirmed by rigorous studies yet. Each person’s needs vary so much with the season, habitat, latitude, skin type, genetic background, personal health history, religion, and so much else that it’s impossible to provide a one-size-fits-all dietary recommendation. Make sure you talk to your doctor before making significant changes to your diet.
FAQOther Questions
- Is vitiligo contagious?
Vitiligo is NOT contagious. It cannot be passed on or caught from touching someone with vitiligo, shaking hands, swimming in the same pool, sharing towels, sitting next to someo...
- How can I cure vitiligo?
There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are a number of effective treatment options that can be discussed with your GP or dermatologist. The aim of treatment is to stop new pat...
- Is there a special diet for vitiligo?
In short, no. Some people find that certain foods may worsen their vitiligo symptoms or that others may improve their skin condition. We found no scientific evidence that a sp...
Though it is not always easy to treat vitiligo, there is much to be gained by clearly understanding the diagnosis, the future implications, treatment options and their outcomes.
Many people deal with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career.
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