Vitiligo is a disorder in which melanocytes, the cells that make pigment in the skin, the mucous membranes and the retina of the eye are destroyed, leading to the development of white patches on the skin. Vitiligo is thought to develop in about 0.1% to 2% of various populations, affecting 2–5 million people in the United States and 40–50 million people worldwide. It’s cause remains unknown although it has been established that it is an autoimmune disease. There is no known cure for the disease either. However, there are many treatments and procedures that can help control its symptoms, i.e., white patches.
The first symptoms of Vitiligo that people typically notice are white patches on the skin, most commonly in areas exposed to the sun. Vitiligo in itself is not physically damaging or life-threatening, but the patches it triggers can affect people’s psychological well-being, interfere with their social and sexual interactions, and make it difficult for them to be social and have self confidence. Since it’s a disease that greatly affects a person’s appearance, there are chances of lowering self esteem and may also lead to depression.
There are many treatments available for Vitiligo, but patients suffering from it should also be careful of what they eat and use in their body.
Ayurveda restricts Curd, Tamarind, Raw Tomato, Raw Onion, Raw garlic, Papaya, Green chili, Pickles, Citrus fruits & Citrus fruit items / juices as oranges, lemon even grapes for patients suffering from Vitiligo. Oily / spicy food & non vegetarian food intake should be lowered, and Milk & milk product intake to be lowered as well. Eatables made of soda bi carb, stored sour things, junk food, tinned foods or drinks, chocolates, coffee or cocoa products should not be taken regularly.
Green leaves, jaggery, dates, radish, chick peas and carrots should be added to the diet.
Diet plays an important role in the treatment of Vitiligo. Cold and phlegm producing foods are harmful in this disease. Lesions can spread if such foods are eaten frequently. Only whole grain breads are recommended and processed grain is not to be taken. A lot of ginger and turmeric should be used in the food since they are natural anti septic and it is better if the diet is salt free.
A lot of nuts should be also taken as they are rich in vitamin E and special fats.
When suffering from any disease, one should be careful about their diets, as the human body reacts to what is put in it.
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Balanced diet is the key to good health. If you have been eating unhealthy junk and you experience vitiligo, then you should modify your eating pattern so you will have a more balanced diet.