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May 15, 2024 By GOQii Leave a Comment

Identifying Trigger Foods and Avoiding Unnecessary Dietary Limits: The Role of Food Diaries in Managing Atopic Dermatitis

It’s widely recognized that Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a chronic condition prone to flare-ups, making it a persistent challenge for those affected. The question arises, can we enhance the quality of life for AD patients? The resounding answer is YES! A crucial step in this direction is mastering trigger management, which can significantly simplify life for AD sufferers.

Triggers, which can range from airborne pollen to specific food allergies, are essentially any factor that can precipitate an AD flare-up. Stress, physical activity leading to sweating, infections, and changes in weather can all exacerbate the condition, making the condition area redder, itchier, and significantly disrupting the lives of those with AD. For individuals without AD, managing these triggers might seem straightforward, but for those afflicted, it can feel overwhelmingly daunting.

So, how do we tackle these triggers? The solution lies in journaling in other words keeping a detailed skin diary or log, documenting daily skin conditions. This practice benefits not just the patient but also the healthcare provider managing the AD, allowing for the identification of personal triggers through regular tracking.

Diet also plays a crucial role in managing AD. Certain foods, especially those with added colours like Chinese dishes, seafood such as shellfish, citrus fruits, peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, and sometimes eggs, can trigger flare-ups. It’s essential for individuals with AD to consume these foods cautiously if the specific triggers are unknown.

Implementing these strategies, coupled with the support of a dermatologist and a nutritionist, can significantly improve life for an AD patient, making it more joyful and free from the constant irritation of itchiness. For further information or guidance, reach out to your GOQii Skin Coach.

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References –

Tamagawa-Mineoka R, Katoh N. Atopic Dermatitis: Identification and Management of Complicating Factors. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Apr 11;21(8):2671. doi: 10.3390/ijms21082671. PMID: 32290423; PMCID: PMC7215488.

Girolomoni G, Busà VM. Flare management in atopic dermatitis: from definition to treatment. Ther Adv Chronic Dis. 2022 Jan 13;13:20406223211066728. doi: 10.1177/20406223211066728. PMID: 35070252; PMCID: PMC8771745.

All guidance above with respect to elimination of foods is as per dietary guidance and not as per dermatologist

May 15, 2024 By GOQii Leave a Comment

Optimizing Skin Hydration: Effective Strategies for Managing Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis (AD) conjures up images of dry, itchy, and rough patches plaguing the skin. The instinctive response to ease the situation is often moisturization, and rightfully so, as maintaining hydration is fundamental in managing AD.

However, tackling AD’s persistent dryness typically requires more than a standard over-the-counter moisturizer. Dermatologists often recommend a medicated, rich, and occlusive moisturizer loaded with skin-barrier fortifying ingredients. For those living with AD, a one-time daily application simply won’t suffice; diligent and repeated moisturization throughout the day is essential for preventing dryness and improving moisture retention.

But is there more to skin hydration than just moisturizers? Indeed, a few straightforward lifestyle adjustments can make a significant difference. Shorter, lukewarm baths, the use of gentle, fragrance-free cleansers, and immediate post-shower skin moisturization while the skin is still damp can have long-term benefits for the skin’s natural barrier, keeping it supple and preventing dryness.

As for activities like swimming, which involve extended water exposure, it’s advisable to apply an occlusive substance, such as petroleum jelly, on dry patches to shield the skin from chlorine’s harsh effects. Nevertheless, consulting a dermatologist is crucial before undertaking such activities, as they can best assess one’s specific skin needs.

A common query arises about the role of internal hydration – does drinking ample water naturally moisturize the skin? Contrary to popular belief, internal hydration doesn’t directly translate to skin moisturization. However, staying well-hydrated is indispensable for overall bodily functions like digestion and excretion, which in turn support skin health by helping to eliminate toxins.

Investing in simple lifestyle changes pays dividends for skin health, offering an invaluable benefit for managing Atopic Dermatitis without a hefty price tag. For further information or guidance, reach out to your GOQii Skin Coach.

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References – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/

Rajagopalan M, De A, Godse K, Krupa Shankar DS, Zawar V, Sharma N, Mukherjee S, Sarda A, Dhar S. Guidelines on Management of Atopic Dermatitis in India: An Evidence-Based Review and an Expert Consensus. Indian J Dermatol. 2019 May-Jun;64(3):166-181. doi: 10.4103/ijd.IJD_683_18. PMID: 31148854; PMCID: PMC6537677.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9954916/

May 15, 2024 By GOQii Leave a Comment

Understanding and Managing Atopic Dermatitis Triggers

Do relentless red, itchy, and parched patches frequently mar your skin, perhaps across your face or hidden in the bends of your body? Are allergies your constant, unwelcome companions, manifesting as persistent runny noses, morning sneezes, or reactions to certain foods? Or maybe you find yourself combatting the tell-tale wheeze of asthma? If these experiences resonate with you, it’s time to uncover the layers of Atopic Dermatitis (AD).

Atopic Dermatitis, a specific form of eczema, commonly makes its debut in childhood and can persist well into adult years in some cases. This condition is visually marked by red, inflamed, and dry and itchy eczematous lesions on the face & body. The origins of AD are complex, rooted in a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental elements, and it behaves in a cycle of exacerbations and calm.

This condition is best described as chronic and relapsing, which means that there may be periods of flareups (disease aggravation) and remissions (disease free period). Early diagnosis & therapeutic intervention play a crucial role in disease remission.

Understanding and identifying what ignites AD is critical. Triggers vary widely—some dwell within the body like a compromised skin barrier, while others lurk in our surroundings, such as dietary allergens or the sun’s harsh rays, climatic changes, physical exertion and sweating. These triggers can be very specific and subjective and recognising these culprits is pivotal. Thus, keeping a detailed skin diary can be instrumental in mastering an individual’s condition. It will really aid in disease control and management. These triggers if not monitored, lead to a FLARE.

A flare-up, or ‘flare’, signifies a severe intensification of symptoms that disrupts life and demands immediate medical attention. In such phases, the skin’s plight worsens: redness ravages, and itchiness intensifies, often leading to infected, weeping wounds.

This event often hampers the individual’s quality of life. Thus, trigger management and flare prevention are two very important parts in treating AD. But there’s a beacon of hope. Through meticulous trigger management and prevention strategies, flare-ups can be mitigated or reduced. Simple adjustments to one’s lifestyle and dietary habits can pave the way to managing this irksome condition.

With the collaborative efforts of a dermatologist, a dietician or nutritionist, and a physician, the goal is not just to treat but to transform lives. The objective is clear – enhance the quality of life through prolonged remission, navigating each individual towards a smoother journey with Atopic Dermatitis.

We hope this article helps you. For further information or guidance, reach out to your GOQii Skin Coach.

#BeTheForce

Reference – Girolomoni G, Busà VM. Flare management in atopic dermatitis: from definition to treatment. Ther Adv Chronic Dis. 2022 Jan 13;13:20406223211066728. doi: 10.1177/20406223211066728. PMID: 35070252; PMCID: PMC8771745.

Kolb L, Ferrer-Bruker SJ. Atopic Dermatitis. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Availabatopic-dermatitis-triggers-managementle from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448071

May 11, 2024 By Trupti Hingad Leave a Comment

Hidden benefits of used tea bags

Tea is Indians favourite beverage. Tea is known for many beneficial properties that it contains. Whether it is black tea or green tea or white tea…there are numerous health, home and cosmetic benefits attached to tea. Tea bags once used do not necessarily need be thrown away in the trash once they have been dunked and seeped into the boiling water and milk if you are using any.

Let me share a couple of hidden benefits of used tea bags

Tea bags for your eyes: The number of antioxidants present in tea makes it ideal when it comes to banishing those dark circles. After use, you can freeze these tea bags and press it on to your eyes for few minutes the next day. This will help in lightening the area and reducing the puffiness under the eye.

Tea bags for food flavouring: You can use tea bags to flavour the dishes too. This can be used as a robust condiment with pasta, grains, and chicken. You can use these tea bags in the water which will be used to boil grains and pasta so that the flavour can get infused in these ingredients. You can use flavoured tea bags like chamomile and cinnamon to make a difference to the dish that you are preparing.

Tea bags in the garden: In a large garden or small pots, you can use tea bags in the water used for watering plants. This will help in preventing the onset of any kind of fungal infection as far as the plants go.

Tea bags to deal with odours: Tea bags can be placed in muslin clothes and hung on rods and placed in corners to acts as deodorising agent. You can place these tea bags in the refrigerator too so that you can eliminate the various scents and odours that are not too pleasant.

Tea bags for cleaning: You can use tea bags to clean your rugs and carpets. These can be frozen before they are opened and the dried tea leaves can be spread over the various stains before being brushed away. This will lighten the stains gradually. Use the teabags to rub furniture and floor scratches to make them disappear.

Tea bags for healing sores: Chill a used tea bag in the freezer. Once it’s cold, place it on your canker sore. The cold plus the tea’s healing properties will help your sore feel better faster.

Tea bags for stopping bleeding on cuts: When a kitchen injury strikes while slicing and dicing, staunch the blood flow fast by saturating a black tea bag with hot water, then holding it against the injury for 30 seconds. The tannins in the tea will quickly clot the blood so you can cover the cut with a bandage and get back to whipping up your delicious dinner.

Tea bags to keep iron vessels rust proof: To make sure that your skillet stays rust-free by wiping it with a damp used black tea bag after every cooking session. The tea’s tannins will coat the pan with an invisible protective layer that prevents rust-causing oxidation.

Don’t discard those used tea bags just yet! Embrace their hidden potential and explore the multitude of ways they can enhance your life, from skincare to household chores. Give these inventive uses a try and make the most out of every cup of tea. We hope this article helps you. For further information or guidance, reach out to our certified experts by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

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