Newtrist Nutritionist Dermatitis Herpetiformis Diet Plan consists of gluten-free foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, beans, legumes, millet, quinoa, soy foods, eggs, nuts, seeds, lean meats, fish, and skimmed milk products.
- Early morning drink @ 6:30 am: Warm lemon water with soaked almonds
- Breakfast @ 9 am: Besan cheela with tomato chutney
- Mid-morning meal @ 11 am: Carrot and cucumber salad
- Lunch @ 1 pm: Brown rice with dal and shallow-fried fish (2 pieces)
- Evening snack @ 4 pm: Tapioca stir-fry tempered with mustard, green chilies, and curry leaves
- Dinner @ 7 pm: Beetroot-Jowar roti with tofu-capsicum curry and warm jeera water
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Consult 19-year-experienced Chief Nutritionist Vasanthi, in person at HSR, Koramangala, Bellandur, Haralur, Electronic city, or online across India.
Table of Contents
What is Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis is an autoimmune condition characterized by rashes or discolored skin with itchy raised bumps on the elbows, knees, scalp, and hairline. Dermatitis Herpetiformis is also referred to as “Duhring’s disease”, Gluten rash, and Celiac disease. Dermatitis Herpetiformis is a chronic condition that causes blisters due to the intake of gluten-rich foods. About 10-25% of the patients diagnosed with Dermatitis herpetiformis are found to have celiac disease.
The onset of the disease usually occurs between 30-40 years of age. The symptoms may be similar to that of Herpes due to the presence of blisters, but it is not the case. The disease is common among males and females but rare among children.
Gluten sensitivity is the main cause of the disease. The body produces antibodies in response to an autoimmune reaction when gluten-rich foods are ingested. These antibodies get deposited on the surface of the skin and cause itchy bumps and blisters.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is a genetic condition that a person may acquire if a first-degree relative has it. The disease is diagnosed with the help of blood tests and skin biopsy. A positive test for antibodies anti-endomysial and anti-tissue transglutaminase confirms the disease.
A gluten-free diet can help manage the symptoms whereas using creams and moisturizers does not help the condition. It is also advised not to try any home remedies to treat the condition. A gluten-free diet reduces the need for medications, reduces the risk of acquiring other autoimmune diseases, and improves overall health.
What are the symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
The symptoms of Dermatitis herpetiformis are
· Discolored bumps
· Fluid-filled blisters
· Severe itching of the lesions
· Erosion of tooth enamel
· Bloating
· Stomach ache
· Constipation
· Diarrhea
Patients with Dermatitis Herpetiformis may or may not experience intestinal symptoms based on the severity of the condition. The symptoms may not subside even after excluding gluten from the diet, in such cases, avoid taking iodine-rich foods in the diet.
Treatment with an antibiotic can help in relieving the itchiness and burning sensation. The bumps and blisters may take days to weeks to clear up completely. Some blisters may leave scars on the skin which may fade in the long run.
What are the stages of Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis appears in three stages
· Stage 1 – The skin may show some discoloration where the bumps may appear.
· Stage 2 – The discoloration transforms into vesicles and papules filled with fluid also known as Blisters.
· Stage 3 – Severe itching and scratching may cause the skin to develop bruises. The skin turns darker on the rashes and blisters compared to other parts of normal skin. Treatment of the lesions starts during this stage. Bruising and release of fluids from the blisters lead to the formation of dry crusts on the affected areas.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis Diet Plan
The Dermatitis Herpetiformis diet plan consists of a gluten-free diet that excludes wheat, barley, rye, and sometimes oats and includes foods such as fruits, vegetables, eggs, lean meat, fish, nuts, and seeds.
- Early morning drink @ 6:30 am: Tender coconut water
- Breakfast @ 9 am: Chia seed pudding with fruits and nuts
- Mid-morning meal @ 11 am: Pumpkin soup sprinkled with crunchy sunflower seeds
- Lunch @ 1 pm: Quinoa pulav with paneer and veggies
- Evening snack @ 4 pm: Sweet corn salad with bell peppers
- Dinner @ 7 pm: Millet roti with mushroom gravy
A healthy diet provides nutrition and improves stamina. Intake of foods rich in selenium and vitamin E balances the deficiency of antioxidants which is a common symptom of the disease. Include foods rich in fiber, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to maintain intestinal health.
Foods to avoid with Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Below are some of the foods to avoid with Dermatitis Herpetiformis
- Gluten-rich foods such as barley, wheat, and rye
- Oats
- Wheat bread
- Refined foods
- Breakfast cereals
- Candies
- French fries
- Readymade rice paste
- Pasta
- Processed meats
- Salad dressings
- Packaged foods
- Soy sauce
- Malt-based products
- Health drinks
- Ajinomoto
- Certain medications may contain wheat gluten as a binding agent.
Switching to gluten-free foods can help to manage the symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Certain processed foods contain wheat, barley, or rye as a thickening, coloring, or flavoring agent. Reintroducing gluten-rich foods may cause the onset of the symptoms.
A gluten-free diet may minimize the usage of medication and antibiotics. Avoid trying home remedies for Dermatitis herpetiformis like the application of apple cider vinegar which might exacerbate the itchiness and irritation.
Best vegetables for Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Some of the best vegetables for Dermatitis herpetiformis are
- Spinach, kale, collard greens
- Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts
- Starchy vegetables like tapioca, potatoes, and corn
- Carrots
- Beetroots
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Radishes
- Onions
- Green beans
- Tomatoes
- Pumpkin
The pre-chopped vegetables available at online stores may carry the risk of cross-contamination while chopping or packaging.
Best fruits for Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Some of the best fruits for Dermatitis Herpetiformis are
- Apples
- Oranges
- Bananas
- Pomegranates
- Pears
- Kiwis
- Custard apples
- Papaya
- Lemons
- Avocados
- Strawberries.
Tips for Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Some of the useful tips for Dermatitis Herpetiformis are
- Stay away from a gluten-rich diet that includes wheat, barley, and rye. Wheat products include wheat flour rotis, wheat bread, wheat pasta, and other products made from wheat.
- Rely on fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, fresh-cut meats, freshly caught fish, and eggs.
- Steer clear of refined foods and processed meats that may contain traces of gluten while preparation and handling.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to flush out the toxins and detox from gluten.
- Label gluten and non-gluten foods separately and shelf them in different places.
- Clean the utensils, cutleries, and cooking equipment leaving no traces of gluten on them.
- Check for the ingredients in the menu of restaurants for gluten-free foods while dining out.
- Toast bread separately to avoid the presence of gluten.
Foods to prevent Dermatitis Herpetiformis
There are no particular foods that prevent Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Following a life-long gluten-free diet lowers the severity of the symptoms of the disease. The complications and risk of acquiring other autoimmune infections can be prevented by staying away from foods containing gluten.
A gluten-free diet lowers the need for medicines to treat the disease. Consult our expert nutritionists for a gluten-free diet plan that helps to manage your skin condition without compromising on your nutrition levels.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis FAQs
Is Dermatitis Herpetiformis curable?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis cannot be cured completely but the symptoms can be managed by following a gluten-free diet and treatments.
Medications can get rid of itching and burning within a few days and a lifelong gluten-free diet can keep you away from the symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis.
What are the best foods to eat for Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Fresh fruits, fiber-rich vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, dark leafy greens, whole grains, millet, beans, legumes, and lean meat such as deskinned chicken, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, soy foods, and low-fat dairy products are some of the best foods for Dermatitis Herpetiformis.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids nourish the skin with nutrients to maintain healthy skin. Avoiding refined foods and deep-fried foods helps you to stay away from gluten from the foods.
What is the natural remedy for Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Staying away from gluten-rich foods is a natural way to refrain from the symptoms of Dermatitis Herpetiformis. It is advised not to try any home remedies or use creams and moisturizers as they may not help the condition.
Follow the instructions of the healthcare provider and our expert nutritionist’s advice to maintain supple skin.
How can I reduce Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis can be reduced by following a diet that is free of gluten which is commonly found in wheat, barley, and rye. Some people may be sensitive to oats which may contain traces of gluten.
Eating a gluten-free diet can make the blisters and bumps go away within a few weeks to months. Including foods rich in vitamin E and fortified foods can keep your skin nourished and healthy.
Are vitamins and calcium good for Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Vitamin E possesses anti-inflammatory properties which show improvement in redness, itching, and inflammation of the skin and Dermatitis Herpetiformis may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Consuming foods rich in calcium aids in strengthening bone density. Calcium deficiency may be one of the causes of itchy skin.
What are the first signs of Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Redness of the infected skin, fluid-filled blisters, itchy patches, bruises on the skin due to extensive itching, dark-colored patches, and intestinal discomforts are a few first signs of Dermatitis Herpetiformis.
Changes in tooth enamel and the formation of horizontal grooves on the teeth may persist. A few people may experience bloating, cramping, constipation, and diarrhea due to gluten sensitivity.
Is Dermatitis Herpetiformis a serious condition?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis is not a serious condition. Following a gluten-free diet throughout life may prevent the flare-up of the symptoms.
Untreated Dermatitis Herpetiformis may increase the risk of other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid problems, type 1 diabetes, and osteoporosis.
How can I treat Dermatitis Herpetiformis at home?
It is not advisable to follow any home remedies to treat Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Removing gluten from the diet for the rest of your life is the only possible way to prevent the symptoms in the comfort of your home.
Shifting to a gluten-free diet may reduce the need for medications to manage the condition.
How to reverse Dermatitis Herpetiformis?
Dermatitis Herpetiformis can be reversed with the help of a gluten-free diet and antibiotics. A balanced and nutritious diet free from gluten supports the reversal of the symptoms of the condition.
The bumps and blisters can go away with a change in diet and oral intake of antibiotics and medications.