EATING lots of salt could increase your risk of developing agonising eczema, scientists say. In fact, having just one extra gram a day - the amount of sodium found in a Big Mac - could up your risk of skin flare ups by 22 per cent. 1 Every extra gram of salt can up your risk of eczema by 22 per cent Credit: Alamy Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a condition that causes unbearably itchy than can get red, cracked and sore.
About one in 10 adults in the UK - and one in five children - have its most common form, called atopic eczema, according to the National Eczema Society . A number of things can trigger the skin condition, including allergies, clothing and cold weather. Now, researchers at UC San Francisco (UCSF) say your diet could have something to do with it too, particularly the levels of sodium you consume.
Sodium, which most people consume in the form of salt, increases your risk of hypertension and heart disease. Research from Tulane University also linked sodium-heavy diets to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes . Meanwhile, scientists recently discovered that sodium is stored in the skin, where it may play a role in the inflammation typical of eczema.
UCSF scientists suggested that limiting the amount of sodium you eat might be one way of managing the skin condition. Most read in Health GRAY AREA Hibs offer club legend David Gray chance to become next permanent manager NEVER FORGET Charles says ‘we are in their debt’ as he joins Camilla to honour D-Day heroes.
