Dietary Guidelines for Children with Eczema

Maintain a well-balanced diet: Ensure your child's diet consists of a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains (like wholemeal bread, maize or corn), lean proteins (like lean beef, chicken or fish), and healthy fats. A balanced diet helps support overall skin health.

Identify and avoid trigger foods: Keep a record of the foods and beverages your child consumes and monitor for any patterns of eczema flare-ups. Common trigger foods can include eggs, nuts, fish, seafood, dairy products like milk, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt, as well as whole grains such as wheat products. Some fruits like tomatoes, oranges, pineapple, and mango may also be problematic for some children.

Increase omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit children with eczema. Include food sources rich in omega-3s, such as:-

Stay hydrated: Encourage your child to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Proper hydration supports healthy skin function and can help reduce dryness associated with eczema.

Consider probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that may help balance the immune system and improve eczema symptoms in some individuals. Discuss with your child's nutritionist about incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or fermented foods or using a probiotic supplement if appropriate for your child's age.

Avoid irritants, especially during flare-ups: Some foods, such as spicy foods, citrus fruits, and certain food additives, may trigger or worsen eczema symptoms in some children. Pay attention to your child's individual sensitivities and avoid any foods that seem to make their symptoms worse.