14/01/2022
Keratosis pilaris or follicular keratosis is a skin condition that causes dry, rough patches and tiny bumps, often on the upper arms, thighs, cheeks or buttocks (see photos).
This condition is due to an essential fatty acid deficiency. This lack of essential fatty acids (EFA's) can be due to:
A lack of EFA in the diet
Malabsorption of fats due to sluggish liver and gallbladder function.
Poor conversion pathways of beta-carotene (precursor) into Vitamin A.
Treatment.
Vitamin A's is the star supplement in micel formulation (water-soluble): Using a water-soluble formulation ensures better absorption for those with poor fatty acid breakdown and absorption.
NOTE- most dosages on Vitamin A supplements labels are not enough. Please do not administer if trying to fall pregnant or are pregnant. Go for food sources.
Usually, Vitamin A is enough. If you want to complete the treatment program, add Vitamin E and Zinc.
Vitamin E is another EFA, and Zinc is an essential mineral when it comes to skin.
EFA can be stored in the body and are not urinated out like other vitamins.
Do not pick the bumps, as this often leads to hyperpigmentation, and the resulting pigmentation can take months to clear.
Orange foods are high in betacarotene, providing the building blocks for Vit A synthesis, i.e. pumpkin, carrots and sweet potato.
Vitamin E is plentiful in avocado and wheatgerm oil (use on salads).
But, remember, if your body is not emulsifying fats efficiently due to sluggish Liver/Gall bladder function, you will not absorb these dietary fats.
IT'S ALWAYS IMPORTANT TO ASCERTAIN WHY YOU ARE DEFICIENT IN CERTAIN THINGS
