Eczema, a condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin, is more than just a skin issue—it’s deeply tied to gut health. At MGI Clinics, we’ve helped countless individuals manage eczema naturally by addressing the root causes of inflammation through our Mind Gut Immunity Method. This blog explores the connection between eczema and gut health, highlighting how inflammation starts in the gut and outlining actionable strategies to manage symptoms effectively.
The Role of Inflammation in Eczema
Inflammation is a complex biochemical process involving multiple pathways. For those with eczema, understanding and addressing these pathways is crucial to reducing flare-ups and restoring balance. Research shows that approximately 70-80% of the immune system resides in the gut, making gut health a cornerstone of managing eczema.
Let’s explore three key inflammatory pathways and how to manage them.
1. The Histamine Pathway
Histamine, a compound involved in allergic responses, is a significant driver of inflammation in eczema. While many associate histamine reactions with external allergens, most histamine in the body is produced in the gut by certain microbes.
What Triggers the Histamine Pathway?
- Dietary Sugars: Foods like bread, pasta, candies, and fruit juices feed harmful gut bacteria and fungi (like Candida) that produce histamine.
- Histidine-Containing Foods: Foods such as shellfish, peanuts, and pineapples contain histidine, a precursor to histamine.
Symptoms of High Histamine Levels:
- Itchy, inflamed skin.
- Fatigue and brain fog.
- Digestive discomfort and bloating.
- Runny nose, hives, or sinus issues.
How to Manage the Histamine Pathway:
- Reduce Simple Carbohydrates: Limit sugary and starchy foods that feed harmful microbes.
- Boost Fiber Intake: Incorporate leafy greens, whole grains, and high-fiber foods to support a healthy gut microbiome.
- Improve Bowel Movements: Aim for 2-4 bowel movements daily and introduce probiotics regularly.
2. The Arachidonic Acid Pathway
This pathway involves arachidonic acid, a compound found in animal fats, which fuels inflammation. In eczema, arachidonic acid contributes to the production of cytokines, molecules that worsen inflammatory responses.
Foods High in Arachidonic Acid:
- Red meat and fatty cuts of poultry.
- Full-fat dairy products like cheese and butter.
- Processed and cured meats.
Foods Low in Arachidonic Acid:
- Egg whites (pure protein).
- Fat-free yogurt and bone broth.
- Marine collagen.
How to Manage the Arachidonic Acid Pathway:
- Limit Animal Fats: Focus on lean protein sources and plant-based alternatives.
- Adopt a Phytonutrient-Rich Diet: Include vegetables and healthy fats like olive oil to naturally reduce inflammation.
3. The Salt Pathway
Excessive salt intake is another hidden trigger of inflammation in eczema. High sodium levels can activate immune cells (Th17), leading to chronic inflammation and exacerbating eczema symptoms.
Hidden Sources of Sodium:
- Packaged foods, baked goods, and desserts.
- Processed meats and canned soups.
- Pre-marinated chicken, often injected with saline solutions.
How to Manage the Salt Pathway:
- Reduce Salt Consumption: Aim for less than 0.5 grams (500 milligrams) of sodium daily.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Cook with fresh, unprocessed foods to avoid hidden sodium.
The Gut Health-Eczema Connection
Eczema and gut health are intricately linked. An imbalanced gut microbiome—caused by poor diet, stress, or lifestyle factors—can disrupt the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation and flare-ups.
Steps to Improve Gut Health:
- Incorporate Probiotics: Support gut health with high-quality probiotics to restore beneficial bacteria.
- Increase Phytonutrient Intake: Eat a variety of colorful vegetables to provide essential micronutrients.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Stay hydrated to support digestion and detoxification.
- Prioritize Restorative Sleep: Poor sleep can increase inflammatory markers, worsening eczema.
Vitamin D’s Role in Managing Inflammation
Low levels of vitamin D are directly linked to higher inflammation levels in eczema patients. Vitamin D helps regulate immune responses, reducing the production of inflammatory markers like TNF-alpha and IL-6.
Simple Steps to Boost Vitamin D:
- Spend 15-20 minutes in direct sunlight daily.
- Supplement with vitamin D3, especially in colder months or if you have limited sun exposure.
Why Choose MGI Clinics for Eczema Management?
At MGI Clinics, we believe in addressing the root causes of inflammation to provide lasting relief for eczema. Our Mind Gut Immunity Method combines advanced diagnostic tools, personalized coaching, and natural strategies to help clients reclaim their health.
By targeting the gut and reducing inflammation through dietary and lifestyle changes, we empower individuals to take control of their eczema and overall well-being.
Take Control of Your Skin Health
If you’re struggling with eczema and want to explore natural, effective solutions, schedule a discovery call with MGI Clinics today. Let us help you heal from the inside out and achieve lasting results.
For personalized guidance and support, schedule a discovery call with Dr. Chanu Dasari at MGI Clinics. Our Case Studies page features stories of patients who have successfully managed their conditions through the Mind-Gut-Immunity Method.
Start your journey to healthier skin and a balanced gut today!
Start Your Journey to Better Health Today
Discover the transformative power of the Mind-Gut-Immunity Method! Over the past decade, Dr. Dasari has helped countless clients reduce inflammation and find relief from autoimmune issues, often in just 3-6 weeks. Now, you can start your journey to better health with our free training. Click the link below, choose your condition, and learn how our proven approach can help you feel better fast.
About the Author
Dr. Chanu Dasari, a distinguished clinician with a career spanning renowned institutions like Vanderbilt University, Oxford University, and the University of California, has made significant contributions to medical research and practice. His work, published in top peer-reviewed scientific journals and adopted by the US Department of Health, highlights his commitment to advancing healthcare. Dr. Dasari is board-certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the American College of Surgeons, with a specialization in hernia repair, gallbladder removal, cysts, digestive disease, and cancer. As the founder of the Mind-Gut-Immunity Clinic, he draws from personal experience with autoimmune and digestive dysfunction to lead a team dedicated to patient-centered care using evidence-based protocols.