Vitiligo Diet

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder which leads to different parts of the body losing pigment, resulting in a blotchy, mottled appearance to the skin. The widespread belief of many people is that a healthy vitiligo diet can help to keep the condition under control and encourage healthy skin and cell regeneration. The choice of the best type of vitiligo diet should be made on an individual basis, frequently following trial and error, making sure that consideration is given to personal preferences, existing health issues and food allergies.

Important elements of a vitiligo diet are whole grains. These grains are full of vitamins, minerals, and fibre which are important in supporting overall health. Particularly beneficial may be oats, owing to the presence of high levels of Vitamin E, which is known to improve the body's natural immune responses and may also help in the fight against harmful bacteria.

Whenever possible, a vitiligo diet should include certain vegetables. Spinach contains considerable quantities of different nutrients which may aid the repair of damaged blood vessels and promote skin regeneration. Garlic possesses natural antibiotic properties and contains a wide range of nutrients which work to maintain healthy cells. Cabbage contains various nutrients and also substances which assist the break down of harmful chemicals within the body. Fruits such as blueberries and tomatoes are renowned for their healing properties and, as such, are a good addition to a vitiligo diet.

Essential to a proper vitiligo diet are healthy fats. One of the best sources of this type of fat is olive oil, which can easily be added to the diet. Most nuts are ideal for vitiligo sufferers, as they contain healthy fats as well as protein, with the main exceptions being cashews and pistachios, which are not recommended for those with vitiligo.

As well as these various recommended foods, it is essential to drink plenty of water, so that the skin can be kept hydrated and healthy.
 
However,some foods should not be included in a vitiligo diet, especially in high quantities. These foods include mango, red chilli, and tea. Berries such as blackberries, raspberries and cherries should also be avoided by vitiligo sufferers.

Vitiligo Causes

At present, the exact vitiligo causes are unknown, but there are several theories held by various scientists and medical practitioners. These range from a belief that the disease may be an autoimmune disorder, possibly genetic, or even originate from some form of emotional stress or sunburn. There are some schools of thought that believe that vitiligo is caused by a combination of these factors.

Autoimmune Disease

 

This theory suggests that vitiligo is caused by an autoimmune disease, which leads to the destruction of melanocytes by the body’s immune system. Melanocytes are the cells that produce melanin, which is responsible for skin colour. 

Heredity

Another theory supports the idea that vitiligo is hereditary. It is known to run in families, and it is feasible that specific genes may cause an immune system disorder resulting in vitiligo. As yet, these genes have not been identified.

Sunburn or Emotional Distress

Some sufferers have stated that vitiligo symptoms arise following particularly bad bouts of sunburn, and also when dealing with emotionally stressful stages of their lives. The commonly held belief is that sunburn and stress alone may not cause vitiligo, but actually instigate the symptoms in someone who may be genetically predisposed to the condition.

Although vitiligo causes are unknown, what is clearly evident is the way in which the disease manifests. The cells known as melanocytes malfunction, and the area surrounding the rogue cells gradually turns white as a result.

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What Is Vitiligo?

Vitiligo is a disease that eliminates the cells that create the body’s pigment. It involves the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, with the clearest indication being the appearance of white patches in the areas in which the skin is not producing enough pigment. The condition is not serious, and investigations are ongoing into diagnostic methods, treatments, parallel diseases and the psychological effects.

Melanin is the pigment responsible for hair, eye and skin colour. Continual break down of this material means that replenishment is needed, and cells called melanocytes carry out this process. These cells produce and dispense correct quantities of melanin, but in vitiligo sufferers, this procedure is disturbed. 

The reasons behind the destruction of melanocytes by vitiligo remain unknown. In the absence of external, causal evidence, medical practitioners have classified the condition as an auto-immune disorder. In the case of vitiligo, the malfunctioning immune system attacks its own cells, the melanocytes, having been deceived into believing the body is under attack.

Light or white patches are the most frequent symptoms, and they may appear anywhere on the body, especially the parts that are exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck, arms, hands and feet. The genital and underarm areas may also be affected.

A proper consultation and diagnosis is essential if vitiligo is suspected, so a visit to a physician is advisable. Treatments vary greatly, ranging from oral medication to laser therapy, and even natural alternative options.

Major concerns with the condition are the psychological, aesthetic and self-esteem issues that arise. As the condition appears to affect many young people, the visible nature of the disease can often lead to issues in these areas, so seeking professional help is encouraged.

Anaemia, lupus and hyperthyroidism are conditions that are often found to run alongside vitiligo. Genetics are probably a factor in the condition, as it does seem to run in families, but the disease is not contagious. Unfortunately, the longer the condition lasts, the worse it gets, so early intervention and treatment is a wise choice.

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