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Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an unpleasant skin condition that is a source of great discomfort due to its associated itchiness and swelling. In some people, it may even develop on the face, causing discoloration and low self-esteem.
Since eczema can be an immune response to an allergen(s) and results in inflammation of the skin, its primary mode of management is anti-inflammatory creams/lotions and avoiding triggers. (1)
What Role Does Food Play in Eczema?
You may not think of food as having anything to do with a skin condition, but it does. Your first step should be to avoid foods you may be allergic to. Most people are allergic to eggs, nuts, seeds, dairy, and gluten.
The next is to consume foods that contain a lot of antioxidants to help lessen the inflammation. In this case, fruits and vegetables can become your best friend.
One such fruit is cranberry. While cranberry juice is not useful for managing eczema, it may be worthwhile to add it to your diet.
How Can Cranberries Improve Eczema?
Cranberries are rich in many bioactive polyphenols, but it is perhaps one of the richest sources of a polyphenol called quercetin. (2)
The health benefits of quercetin include inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, (2) protecting against heart disease, and fighting urinary tract infections in women. (3)
Studies have also found quercetin to be a useful remedy in the fight against eczema due to its ability to manage inflammation. (4)
Therefore, including cranberries or cranberry juice as part of a healthy well-balanced diet can be beneficial.
Precautions to Take Prior Consuming Cranberries
Though cranberry juice may be beneficial in reducing the inflammation associated with eczema, it cannot be relied upon as a sole method of treatment. Eczema flare-ups due to allergens or environmental triggers can be extremely painful and can cause complications if left untreated.
Dietitians would recommend adding cranberry juice as part of a preventative plan rather than considering it as a cure.
Can I Mix Cranberry Juice With Other Fruit Juices?
Since the quercetin in cranberries is what is helpful for eczema, you can mix it with other fruit juices rich in quercetin, such as apples, blueberries, cherries, and blackberries, to boost the content of quercetin.
Just make sure to avoid adding sugar as it can worsen eczema.
Final Word
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition that can either be genetic or an allergic response to a trigger. The rash can be itchy, swollen, and leaking fluids.
A diet rich in inflammation-fighting foods is beneficial in controlling eczema, and the quercetin in cranberry juice has been found to curb the symptoms of eczema due to its ability to reduce inflammation.
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