The effect of a low glycemic load diet on acne vulgaris and the fatty acid composition of skin surface triglycerides

Abstract

Background: Dietary factors have long been implicated in acne pathogenesis. It has recently been hypothesized that low glycemic load diets may influence sebum production based on the beneficial endocrine effects of these diets. Objective: To determine the effect of a low glycemic load diet on acne and the fatty acid composition of skin surface triglycerides. Methods: Thirty-one male acne patients (aged 15-25 years) completed sebum sampling tests as part of a larger 12-week, parallel design dietary intervention trial. The experimental treatment was a low glycemic load diet, comprised of 25% energy from protein and 45% from low glycemic index carbohydrates. In contrast, the control situation e..