Nutritional aspects in dermatology

Abstract

Nutritional dermatology is an emerging field that explores the complex relationship between nutrition and skin health. The purpose of the study was to determine the role of unhealthy dietary habits and their impact on the skin and the development of skin diseases, as well as to describe the beneficial effects of healthy dietary habits on skin disease prevention. Materials and methods The literature review was developed based on the analysis of contemporary specialized scientific information, which was published in the period 2018-2023, using the databases PubMed, NICB, Z-library, Medscape, Mendeley applying the keywords: „diseases”, „skin’, „foods”, „role”, „mechanism”, „nutrients”, „relationship”, „diet”, which were combined with each other. Results Numerous studies have demonstrated a positive association between poor nutrition and the aggravation of skin diseases by maintaining systemic and local inflammation in dermatological lesions via Il-6 and TNF-α. In conditions of chronic inflammatory stress, the herpes virus is activated and induces the appearance of skin recurrences. Through the increased production of TNF-α, it has lc the expansion of T-helper cells 17, which leads to the increased production of IL-17A, participating in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. An excessive consumption of cereals and soy milk rich in phytates and organic phosphates can affect the integrity of enterocytes with the development of inflammatory bowel disease, which will result in important losses of minerals (Zn and Fe) with the development of angular cheilitis and enteropathic acrodermatitis, of vitamins (A, B, C, niacin, etc.) with the development of pellagra and scurvy , as well as other important nutrients in maintaining the integrity of the skin. Conclusions The link between nutrition and skin health is undeniable. A well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet provides the building blocks needed for skin structure, function, and resilience. Thus, by adopting healthy eating habits, individuals can proactively contribute to the health and appearance of their skin.