I want to glow!
Q: Dear Donovan,
Since I started my weight loss programme in January, I have been having eczema like never before. I am on soy and legumes, and include foods like tomatoes and oranges and other high citrus foods in my diet. My skin is itchy and dry. I thought it was a reaction until I was informed that certain foods can trigger eczema. How can I adjust my diet and cater to that issue? Also, my skin tone is a bit pale, and I’d like ideas for tailoring my diet to have a better ‘glow’.
A: It is good to know that you have started a weight loss programme. I hope you have had some success. However, it seems as if you might be having some allergic reaction to food since you did not have these skin problems before you started your diet.
Some foods can cause allergic reactions, so I would suggest that you start eliminating certain foods from your current diet to alleviate your problem.
You can start by removing soy products from your diet for at least two weeks. Allergic reactions to fruits and vegetables are very mild and are usually confined to the areas where the food touches the lips and tongue. Soy allergies, on the other hand, can include hives or itching, scaly skin, eczema, skin redness and swelling of the lips, face and tongue.
Since you want to continue with your weight loss programme, my suggestion to you is to remove soy products from your diet and do a detox programme. This is necessary so that the body can use up some of the reserved fat. Your diet could include fruits, vegetables, yoghurt, soups and salads. In addition, you can drink at least eight to 12 ounces of green juice daily. This will dramatically improve your skin problems.
Also, you will need to start or increase your exercise/activity level. This will help to burn more calories throughout the weight loss process.
Good luck!
We will answer your weight- related questions
Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, Suite 16, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Send your questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com.
