Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (194 page)

Vitamin B complex. Eczema flareups can sometimes be stress-related. As the body uses larger than normal amounts of B vitamins during times of stress, taking a B vitamin complex may be helpful.

Biotin. Increasing biotin levels has been shown to improve seborrheic dermatitis in some people.

Vitamin C may reduce eczema symptoms by boosting the immune system.

Zinc aids healing and enhances immune function.

EXTRA TIPS

Topical applications to try include vitamin E oil or evening primrose oil; St. John’s wort cream; chamomile cream; calendula and chickweed.

Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, and chemicals—use natural hypoallergenic toiletries and household products instead.

Keeping your skin moist is important, so use a moisturizing cream or lotion several times a day. Choose an organic, alcohol-free moisturizer for sensitive skin.

Learn how to deal with stress effectively, as it may aggravate eczema conditions. Regular exercise and mind-relaxing techniques such as meditation or yoga might help.

EDEMA

Edema basically means fluid retention in body tissues under the skin. The body can retain fluids anywhere, but commonly affected areas include the abdomen, fingers, ankles, feet, breasts, and under the eyes. The area affected generally looks swollen and puffy.

CAUSES

There are various underlying factors that are likely to be playing a part. They include:

Hormonal imbalances—edema is common premenstrually in women.

Excess sodium relative to potassium—sodium encourages the retention of water by the body.

B vitamin deficiency, especially B
₆
.

Liver congestion.