However, its important to note that clinical studies regarding specialized diets in people with vitiligo are lacking.
Of note, this review also stressed the need for more extensive studies.
Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies
Nutrient deficiencies don’t cause vitiligo.
FG Trade / Getty Images
The effectiveness of long-term, high-dose supplementation remains unclear.
How It Works
There’s no specific diet plan recommended to treat vitiligo.
Still, most research suggests eating a nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich diet filled with fruits and vegetables.
Dietary recommendations for those with vitiligo involve eating a nutrient-dense diet.
Some experts suggest following a plant-based diet because it’s rich in antioxidants.
Consider having three meals and two snacks each day.
If you prefer smaller meals, this can be broken down into five to six small meals each day.
Cooking Tips
Whole foods are the foundation of a healthy diet.
Limit using excessive amounts of oil when cooking, and avoid using heavy creams and butter in your recipes.
Use fresh herbs and spices to add flavor and antioxidants to your meals instead of cooking with salt.
you’re free to also use a low-fat marinade before broiling, grilling, or roasting your food.
Considerations
Changing your diet can be scary.
Especially when so many events in life are food focused.
Its important to give yourself grace throughout the process and know that change takes time.
Taking a whole foods approach while limiting fried or processed foods will improve your overall health.
It will also provide fiber and antioxidants to give additional benefits.
Support and Community
Living with vitiligo can be frustrating.
You may find yourself needing support outside of your normal team of healthcare providers.
In addition to your family and friends, joining asupport groupis another great way to cope.
There are also online community support groups on Facebook and other social platforms.
Gluten-Free Diet
Vitiligo and celiac disease are both considered autoimmune diseases.
One study suggests that those who have vitiligo may be at a greater risk for developingceliac disease.
Researchers believe this may be why a few individuals with vitiligo have found improvement with a gluten-free diet.
She experienced most benefits within the first month and noticed stabilization by month four.
Summary
At this time, there isn’t a vitiligo-specific diet.
A Word From Verywell
Treating vitiligo is difficult because so much about the condition remains uncertain.
At this time, there isn’t enough evidence to link a certain diet to improvement in vitiligo symptoms.
If you have any questions about an individualized diet plan for you, consider speaking with a registered dietitian.
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Vitiligo Research Foundation.Is there a special diet for vitiligo?
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Vitiligo Society.Living with vitiligo.
United States Department of Agriculture.Dietary guidelines for Americans 2020-2025.
U.S Department of Agriculture.What is myplate?
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