Recent scientific studies have highlighted a significant association between severe eczema and various systemic conditions, including liver, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular diseases, as well as osteoporosis and fractures. This broad range of related health issues suggests that eczema is not just a skin condition but may reflect underlying imbalances in the body.
.The Gut-Liver-Skin Connection
In my clinical practice, I have observed that many skin conditions, including eczema, are often linked to food sensitivities or issues with gut and liver health. When these organs are overwhelmed, their ability to detoxify effectively can be compromised, and the body may resort to using the skin as a secondary detoxification route. In simple terms, the liver and gut are two primary organs responsible for detoxifying the body. If they are overloaded, toxins can build up, leading to inflammation that manifests on the skin as eczema.
By addressing and supporting the health of the liver and gut, I often see significant improvements in skin conditions, including eczema. There is substantial research that demonstrates how poor gut health can adversely affect liver function, and how both can, in turn, contribute to cardiovascular issues. This interplay between inflammation in the gut, liver, and beyond creates a complex cascade that can result in widespread systemic effects.
Scientific Findings on Eczema and Associated Conditions
Eczema was associated with subsequent diagnosis of outcomes with adjusted hazard ratios (99% confidence intervals) from Cox regression of up to 4.02(3.95–4.10) for food allergy (rate difference [RD] per 1,000 person-years of 1.5). Besides strong associations with atopic and allergic conditions (e.g., asthma 1.87[1.39–1.82], RD5.4) and skin infections (e.g., molluscum contagiosum 1.81[1.64–1.96], RD1.8), the strongest associations were with Hodgkin’s lymphoma (1.85[1.66–2.06], RD0.02), Alopecia Areata (1.77[1.71–1.83], RD0.2), Crohn’s disease (1.62[1.54–1.69], RD0.1), Urticaria (1.58[1.57–1.60], RD1.9), Coeliac disease (1.42[1.37–1.47], RD0.1), Ulcerative colitis (1.40[1.34–1.46], RD0.1), Autoimmune liver disease (1.32[1.21–1.43], RD0.01), and Irritable bowel syndrome (1.31[1.29–1.32], RD0.7).”
These findings underscore the widespread impact of eczema on systemic health and the need for a comprehensive approach to treatment, one that goes beyond topical creams and corticosteroids.
Conventional Treatments and Their Limitations
Conventional medicine often relies on topical corticosteroids to manage eczema. While these medications can provide temporary relief by reducing itching and inflammation, they do not address the underlying cause of the condition. Once the medication is stopped, the rash typically returns, indicating that the root issue has not been resolved.
A Holistic Approach to Eczema: The Role of Diet and Gut Health
Eczema is not only linked to allergic conditions like asthma but also to broader systemic issues, including gut and liver dysfunction. In my experience, dietary interventions—such as eliminating inflammatory foods—can significantly reduce skin irritation and inflammation. However, to achieve lasting relief, it is crucial to support and restore the health of both the gut and liver. These organs are vital for detoxification and play a central role in the body’s ability to manage inflammation. By addressing the root causes of the imbalance, rather than merely masking symptoms, we can achieve long-term improvements in eczema and overall health.
Dr. Laura M.Brown offers appointments inperson, on phone or video.
