There are several myths surrounding the link between chocolate and acne with some accusing chocolate for acne development because of its high fat and sugar content. While these myths remain, experts have gone ahead to prove that neither chocolate nor other food can cause acne.

Chocolate and other foods like dairy products, potato chips and pizza share the same accusation although chocolate is also blamed for tooth decay. Despite its size and accusation, the little innocent bar contains more than imagined. From anti-depressant to aphrodisiac effects, the little bar surely needs some credit. Chocolate is harmless although might be harmful like other foods if consumed in large amounts.

Link between chocolate and acne

It is clear that acne can be caused by stress. Because of its anti-depressant effects, chocolate helps in boosting serotonin in the brain that helps calm a person with stress. Therefore, it is true to mention that chocolate if consumed by a stressed person can help calm him and also prevent acne.

In addition, if you enjoy a bar of chocolate every day, then you are among those who get enough antioxidants. Giving up to one-third of an adult’s daily requirement of antioxidants, most experts believe that chocolate can be included in a diet to complete it. Antioxidants are essential in our bodies as they help prevent free radicals from harming the skin. They also help in treating acne among other skin conditions and help in keeping our immune system strong.

Real causes of acne

Overactive Sebaceous Glands

These glands are responsible for producing oil (sebum) essential for lubricating the surface of the skin. However, individuals prone to acne are said to produce more oil than necessary. The oil, therefore, does not wash off and remains in the skin pores blocking the glands. Additionally, sebum in these individuals is said to contain high amount of squalene and wax esters with low linoleic and fatty acids than normal. These conditions create a favorite environment for acne-causing bacteria to flourish.

Abnormal Shedding of Skin

We shed skin cells through a process known as desquamation, and new cells are formed. In this context, individuals prone to acne have 4 to 5 times more skin cells to be shed than normal skin. Because skin cells in these people are not shed properly, the cells are sucked into the follicle creating acne lesions (comedo).

Bacteria Proliferation

P. acnes, also Propioni bacteria acnes, are bacteria common in most skins. However, in people prone to acne, the bacteria usually grow out of control. P. acnes flourish well in dead cells and oil in skin pores. It digests the oil producing a fatty acid waste that irritates the lining of the pore causing inflamed acne breakouts.

Source:

By: Eileen Eva.

WebMD- Chocolate and acne

Acne Treatment- Does Eating Chocolate Cause Acne?

Acne Resource Center Online- The Chocolate and Acne Myth