A few years ago, I discovered the huge benefits of protein. Unfortunately, I took it to an extreme. For months I survived only on proteins with some sprinkle of veggies and fruits here and there. Becoming super thin and having no energy was one part of the problem. But more seriously, I unlocked a case of horrible hormonal acne on my jawline (also known as cystic acne or adult acne).
The emotional torture of hormonal acne
I never had major issues with my skin. Even in my teenage years, acne was not too much of concern for me as it was for many of my friends.
Little did I expect that I will need to deal with something like this in my 30s. I know that those of you that went through the same will relate – it is really emotionally and psychologically draining.
How my diet triggered hormonal acne
The name “hormonal acne” made me think: if my hormones are impacted, my skin is trying to tell me something that is happening on a much deeper level in my body. I started reading and analyzing and I found two main triggers. And both of them were related to my eating:
Reason 1: I was eating an extremely unbalanced diet missing major macronutrients
By eating mainly protein and some occasional fruits and vegies, my diet was lacking on a major macronutrient – fat. Healthy dietary fats, among other functions, are responsible for the proper functioning of our hormones as well as healthy skin, nails and hair.
With such lack of variety in my diet, I was also skipping on important micronutrients such as calcium, vitamin D and magnesium that contribute to good bone, muscle and skin health.
Reason 2: A lot of my protein intake came from heavily processed packaged foods
I took very seriously the objective of taking in enough protein per day. I was not caring enough about the source.
On a daily basis, I used to eat multiple protein bars, sheikhs, sports drinks, smoked chicken etc. My body was overloaded with constant stream of preservatives, artificial flavors and a long list of other chemicals.
How I made hormonal acne go away for good
Once I realized my mistakes, I started amending my eating habits.
Solution 1: I rebalanced my diet to include protein as well as healthy carbs and fats
I started by having healthy dietary fats in at least two meals. I also planned my shopping and cooking in a way so I eat different fruits and vegetables during the week. It was my insurance that I am taking in all sorts of good minerals and vitamins.
Ideas for healthy fats in main meals: avocado or nuts in my dinner salad
Ideas for healthy fats in snacks/ breakfast: peanut butter or egg yolks
Solution 2: I started eating foods closer to their natural source
I replaced the protein bars with wholesome protein sources such as boiled eggs, cottage cheese, skyr yoghurt. And the multicoloured sports drinks with teas and fresh veggie juices.
It took me months of this new rebalanced eating to see my skin completely clear. But the correlation was so obvious and the benefits so many that I stuck with it. I am happy to report that hormonal acne has remained just a bad memory from the past.