Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition characterized by inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction. This condition can be frustrating and embarrassing for so many of us because it can feel beyond our control and unsightly.
While traditional treatments often focus on symptom management, like a steroid to suppress the outbreak, recent insights suggest that the root cause of eczema may lie within the gut microbiome. Skin experts trained in functional medicine emphasize the importance of addressing gut health to manage eczema effectively.
The Role of the Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health, including immune system regulation. Naturopathic medical doctors specializing in dermatology teach that eczema patients often exhibit gut dysbiosis—an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria. This imbalance can lead to systemic inflammation, which manifests as eczema on the skin. This type of gut dysbiosis can be evaluated using specialty and functional testing such as breath testing and stool testing. Results from functional gut testing can help functional skincare professionals tailor treatment plans for exactly the imbalance going on in the individual.
Pathophysiology of Eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is primarily a disease of skin barrier dysfunction and systemic inflammation. Eczema involves multiple immune pathways, including Th2, Th22, Th1, and Th17, which are activated by various triggers such as allergens, bacteria, and fungi. The gut, being the largest mucocutaneous site, plays a significant role in this immune response. This is why treating the gut first and foremost is so important when treating skin concerns.
Food Allergies and Eczema
Food allergies are often considered a trigger for eczema, particularly in infants and children. However, up to two-thirds of eczema patients do not show sensitization to foods or environmental allergens when tested as IGG food allergy blood testing has flaws. Instead, the focus should be on gut health, as a leaky gut can lead to improper sensitization and exacerbate eczema symptoms.
Treatment Approach
The functional and naturopathic approach to dermatitis involves testing and treating the gut microbiome to address the root causes of eczema. This includes:
- Elimination Diets: Starting with common triggers like dairy, gluten, and eggs.
- Gut Testing: Using tests like comprehensive stool analysis, breath testing, and organic acid testing to identify gut dysbiosis.
- Herbal Treatments: Utilizing natural antimicrobials and probiotics to restore gut balance.
- Topical Protocols: Developing personalized topical treatments to support skin health.
Everything Starts in the Gut
The connection between the gut microbiome and eczema offers a promising avenue for treatment beyond traditional symptom management. By focusing on the root causes, such as gut dysbiosis and systemic inflammation, patients can achieve long-term relief and improved quality of life, as a holistic approach to eczema can lead to transformative results.
Our licensed naturopathic doctor and experienced functional medicine practitioner offers comprehensive functional medicine consultations in Meridian / Boise, Idaho. Free discovery calls are available!
