Past Food Vitals Webinars

Skin conditions comprise 17% of all problems encountered in general practice, and GPs require a wide range of expertise in assisting patients with these. Acne is a common skin condition, and although it is most common in adolescence, acne can occur at any age. In Australia and New Zealand, it is estimated that 93% of young people experience the condition, which can continue into adulthood. Acne significantly impacts self-esteem; irrespective of severity, acne is associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression and negatively affects the quality of life.

For some time, research has shown that a Western diet high in fat, highly refined carbohydrates and dairy contributed to the development of acne. Recent research shows that patients with acne have significant differences in the gut microbiome composition, likely exacerbated by a Western-style diet. Dairy has been widely studied for its link with acne, and this was seen in a large systematic review and meta-analysis showing that all forms of dairy are associated with an increased risk of acne.

Following a whole food plant-based diet (WFPBD) can reduce acne as it is naturally low GI, high in fibre and improves insulin sensitivity. A WFPBD induces beneficial and anti-inflammatory changes in the gut microbiome, which reduces systemic inflammation and contributes to an improvement in acne.

This webinar provided GPs with information on how an eating pattern focussed on unprocessed, whole plant foods can reduce the occurrence and severity of acne. They can then use this to make recommendations regarding dietary modifications to their patients in order to treat the common condition.

By the end of this activity, attendees will be able to:

• Describe two pathophysiological processes leading to the development of acne.
• Identify at least three features of an eating pattern that can be beneficial for preventing and managing acne.
• Name tools and techniques to support patients suffering from acne to transition to a whole food plant-based diet.