A flushed red face, small pustules, and bulbous growths on or near the nose are all signs of rosacea. Rosacea isn’t dangerous or contagious, but it can be unsightly to the person afflicted with the bright red skin, broken blood vessels, and acne-like appearance. Rosacea typically appears after the age of 30 and impacts self-esteem. While medications help ease the flare-ups associated with rosacea, home care providers should be aware of the rosacea food triggers to help ease the appearance of flushed, bumpy skin.
Keep a Food Journal
Home care providers should keep a journal of what the senior homeowner eats at each meal. When flare-ups occur, look back at a food that was eaten recently. If a pattern of flushing or breakouts occur often with certain foods, the caregiver has likely found a food trigger. Once triggers are found, eliminate them from the diet to help prevent future rosacea flare-ups and pustules.
Triggers can change over time. It’s important for the home care provider to keep the food journal going, even after triggers have been found. If any drastic changes occur to the look and quality of the skin, it’s likely there is a new rosacea food trigger within the diet.
Know the Common Food Triggers
The National Rosacea Society has a comprehensive list of common food triggers. Caregivers can use this as a starting point. Acidic foods are one of the more common. This includes many fruits and vegetables, including:
- Berries
- Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, and oranges)
- Grapes and raisins
- Green beans
- Pickled vegetables
- Plums
- Sauerkraut
- Tomatoes
Alcoholic beverages also trigger rosacea in many people. Some, such as beer, may be more tolerable. Red wine is usually one of the worst choices.
Some foods that have high histamine levels also lead to more redness and bumps in seniors with rosacea. These foods include things like beans and legumes, chocolate, nuts, smoked meats, and spinach.
Another food for caregivers to watch is dairy. Cheese, ice cream, and yogurt trigger flare-ups in many rosacea sufferers. Home care meal plans should try alternatives like coconut milk or rice milk to see if the redness lessens.
For any senior with rosacea, knowing the food triggers is vital. A flare-up, while not dangerous, can be itchy, feel hot, and lead to embarrassment and lowered self-esteem. A few dietary changes in a home care plan can help ease any issues rosacea causes.
If you or an aging family member are considering hiring home care in Amityville, NY, please call the caring staff at A Gentle Touch Senior Home and Health Care at 631-647-7622 today.
Sources:
https://www.rosacea.org/patients/materials/triggers.php