Eczema is an inflammatory skin disorder that causes skin rashes, scales, itching, inflammation, irritation, and sometimes blisters that ooze and skin patches that appear leathery. But how do you get eczema? Causes of this form of atopic dermatitis may include low humidity weather, certain irritating soaps or fabrics (clothing), and even stress. Believe it or not, foods are also a trigger for eczema. Foods that are known triggers for eczema include dairy products and eggs, foods that contain gluten, tree nuts, citrus fruit, peanuts, and soy products. In addition, processed foods; artificial ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, MSG, trans fats, artificial sweeteners, and artificial colorants should also be avoided with eczema. Commonly found in children under the age of two (ask your dermatologist about child eczema prescription RX coupons for purchasing prescriptions) eczema can also affect older children and adults as well. Read on for specific foods that can help relieve adolescent atopic dermatitis and adult eczema:

1. Omega rich foods
Foods rich in the omega-3 fatty acids are great anti-inflammatory foods. Good sources of this healthy fat are fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, trout, tuna, and mackerel. These “good” fatty fish can be eaten at least three times per week. Other great sources of the omega-3s are nuts such as almonds and walnuts.

2. Quercetin-rich foods
Foods that contain quercetin, a plant based flavonoid that helps give fruits and vegetables their rich color, may also relieve eczema symptoms. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant that is found in foods like apples, blueberries, broccoli, cherries, spinach, and kale—all of these are also powerful anti-inflammatory foods.

3. Probiotics
Foods that contain probiotics, like yogurt, help to reduce eczema flare ups by supporting a healthy and strong immune system (or gut). Foods rich in probiotics include sourdough bread, miso soup, naturally fermented pickles, kombucha, and unpasteurized sauerkraut.

4. Anti-inflammatory foods
Foods such as tomatoes and walnuts will help with the symptoms of eczema because they contain natural anti-inflammatory properties. These foods can help relieve the itching and rash outbreaks. Walnuts are also known to be a source of good fatty acids.

5. Whole grains
Whole grain foods should be eaten by eczema sufferers as opposed to white breads and rice. Brown rice, whole grain breads, quinoa, and whole grain pastas are the best choices to add to your diet if eczema flare ups are common and affect your daily life.

If you or a loved one suffers from eczema due to certain food triggers, talk to your healthcare provider about dietary changes that can help.