Eczema is a skin condition that makes the skin red, itchy, and sometimes bumpy or dry. It happens when the skin doesn’t hold in moisture well, making it easier for germs and other things to irritate it.

It’s a common condition and isn’t contagious, which means you can’t catch it from someone else. With the right care, like moisturizing the skin and eating healthy, it’s possible to keep eczema more comfortable and make flare-ups happen less often.

Fuel your child’s skin health with a colorful, balanced diet! Try to include a mix of fruits, veggies, whole grains (like whole meal bread, ugali), lean proteins ( chicken, lean beef, or fish), and healthy fats. Let your child help pick out vibrant fruits and veggies, or turn mealtime into a “colorful plate” challenge to make eating healthy fun!

Keep a food diary with your child to spot any foods that might cause their eczema to flare up. Common culprits include eggs, nuts, fish, dairy (milk, cheese, yogurt), wheat, and some fruits like tomatoes, oranges, and pineapples. Make it an adventure by giving each suspected food a “detective watch” to see how your child’s skin reacts!

Omega-3 fatty acids are like superhero foods that can help calm inflammation! Include fatty fish like tilapia, sardines, or salmon in their meals. If your child isn’t a fan of fish, try adding chia seeds, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, or walnuts to their cereal or smoothies. Give these “super seeds” names and make it a fun game to add them to different foods.

Encourage your child to drink enough water each day to keep their skin hydrated. Set up a fun water bottle challenge to see who can drink the most water by the end of the day—healthy skin is the prize!

Probiotics are “friendly bacteria” that can help support your child’s immune system and might improve eczema symptoms.

Yogurt and fermented foods are good sources, so try these out and chat with your nutritionist to see if probiotics are a good fit for your child.

Watch out for foods that may irritate sensitive skin, especially when eczema is acting up. Spicy foods, citrus fruits, and certain food additives can be eczema triggers for some kids. Make a list of “sometimes foods” together and get your child involved in choosing other delicious options to enjoy.

Each of these steps is a fun way to turn nutrition into a positive, skin-loving habit! With a little planning and creativity, you and your child can team up to support their skin health and make meals an exciting part of the journey.

Since we have a nutritionist on our team, you can reach out if you have any questions or concerns regarding your diet. Book a session with an Antara Nutritionist through the Antara App or by clicking here