Diet and Vitiligo
Vitiligo occurs
when melanin is no longer produced by the melanocyte
cells found under our skin.
Over the years,
as well as trying to find a definitive cure and the
exact reason why the melanocytes malfunction in the
first place, a lot of interest has developed in foods
and nutrients that can allegedly cause Vitiligo, and
also in nutrients that can allegedly help cure it.
It is important
to understand that the food we eat consists of a variety
of nutrients, vitamins and mineral etc and that all
interact with our digestive system in a very complex way
to provide the nutrition, energy and building blocks
necessary for us to live.
It is also
important to note that not one of numerous studies has
been able to comprehensively point out any particular
food item, or combination of food items that cause
Vitiligo or cure it.
Having said
this, several substances recognized to play a role in
the production of skin pigment are taken by Vitiligo
sufferers. Some of these include vitamin B12 and folic
acid, which works in conjunction with vitamin C, beta
carotene and several minerals like calcium and iron.
In short, there
is not much evidence for or against any particular
mineral or vitamin helping with Vitiligo, and the
importance of a healthy, wholesome well rounded diet
with as much variety as possible cannot be
underemphasized.
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