Eczema is more than just a frustrating skin condition—it’s often a sign that something deeper is going on inside the body. Functional medicine practitioners view eczema as a symptom of systemic imbalances, often linked to gut health, nutrient deficiencies, and detoxification issues. By addressing the root causes, it’s possible to reduce or even eliminate eczema symptoms, giving your skin the chance to heal from the inside out.
Why Eczema Happens: Root Causes
It isn't just a skin-deep issue. It often stems from underlying factors, such as:
Gut Health Imbalances: The gut and skin are closely connected. Conditions like leaky gut syndrome, dysbiosis (an imbalance in gut bacteria), or food sensitivities can trigger systemic inflammation that manifests as eczema.
Toxin Overload: Your skin is the largest detox organ in the body. When your liver and other detox pathways are overwhelmed, toxins may be pushed out through the skin, leading to irritation and inflammation.
Food Sensitivities: Common culprits like dairy, gluten, soy, and eggs can provoke an immune response in sensitive individuals, contributing to eczema flare-ups.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Key nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin D are essential for skin health. Deficiencies can weaken the skin barrier, making it more prone to irritation and inflammation.
Chronic Stress: Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which can disrupt the skin barrier and impair healing.
The Gut-Skin Connection
The gut is often referred to as the "second brain," but its relationship with the skin is equally significant. A healthy gut microbiome supports a strong immune system, reduces inflammation, and maintains the integrity of the skin barrier. When gut health is compromised, toxins and undigested food particles can leak into the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and skin reactions like eczema. Healing the gut is often the first step in calming eczema.
5 Ways to Support Healing from Eczema
Address Gut Health - Start by identifying and removing potential triggers like processed foods, sugar, and allergens. Incorporate gut-healing foods such as bone broth, fermented vegetables, and high-fibre foods to nourish the gut.
Optimise Detox Pathways - Support the liver and other detox organs with foods like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, kale), lemon water, and herbal teas like dandelion or milk thistle. Avoid environmental toxins where possible, such as synthetic skincare products and household chemicals.
Hydrate and Moisturise the Skin- Keep the skin barrier strong by using non-toxic, deeply hydrating products. Drinking plenty of water is also critical to support the body’s natural detox processes.
Boost Anti-Inflammatory Nutrients - Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Include foods rich in zinc (pumpkin seeds, chickpeas) and vitamin D (egg yolks, fortified foods, or safe sun exposure).
Manage Stress - Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Lowering stress levels can help balance cortisol and reduce inflammation.
When to Seek Help
In some cases, eczema can signal a deeper issue that requires professional support. Chronic or severe eczema might be linked to conditions like:
Histamine Intolerance: High histamine levels in the body can cause rashes, itching, and swelling.
Autoimmune Conditions: Eczema-like symptoms can occur as part of autoimmune diseases like lupus or psoriasis.
Hormonal Imbalances: Changes in hormones can affect the immune system and skin health, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
A qualified health practitioner uses root cause analysis from a detailed health history and may also use advanced testing to identify hidden triggers, such as food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, or gut imbalances. Tests like comprehensive stool analysis, food intolerance testing, or hormone panels can provide insight into what’s driving your symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Eczema may feel like an endless battle, but by addressing root causes, you can give your skin the tools it needs to heal. From supporting gut health to optimising detox pathways, small changes can lead to big improvements. If you’ve tried these strategies and your eczema persists, consider seeking help from a qualified practitioner. Sometimes, identifying the deeper issue is the key to long-lasting relief.
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