Refined Grains and Sugars

Compared to those who have little or no acne, people with acne tend to consume more refined carbs. The foods high in refined carbs are bread, crackers, cereal, or desserts made with white flour; pasta made with white flour; white rice and rice noodles; sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages; sweeteners like cane sugar, maple syrup, honey, or agave;...

According to one study, people who regularly consume added sugars had a 30% higher risk of developing acne than those who frequently eat pastries and cakes had a 20% greater risk. Sugars and refined carbs cause a sudden insulin spike, which exacerbates acne. As insulin levels increase, so do androgen hormones and a substance known as IGF-1. This combination makes skin cells grow at a faster rate and increases sebum production, as well.