Teenagers go through many physical, mental, and emotional changes that are due to their hormonal changes. One hormone, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), causes many of these changes and is a driving force behind acne.
According to William F. Danby, "Generally, we think of these hormones as coming from the testicles, the ovaries, and the adrenal glands, but there is a high volume of hormones produced naturally in the milk of cows, particularly in the milk of pregnant cows, which makes up between 75% and 90% of marketed milk and dairy products."
Although cow's milk doesn't contain DHT, it contains other hormones that are broken down to it. This hormone turns on the oil-making cells of the skin. "The enzymes necessary to convert these hormones to DHT are present right in the oil glands themselves," said Dr. Danby.
There's an association between the amount of milk of any kind consumed and acne ‚ the more milk and milk products consumed, the worse the acne. This relationship is true for any type of milk ‚ whole, reduced fat, and skim. The same relationship exists for milk-based products such as instant breakfast drinks, cottage cheese and cream cheese, but not with other dairy products, french fries, chocolate candy, or pizza.
Dr. Danby recommends that people with severe acne eliminate all dairy products from their diets. However, he cautions that calcium supplements are necessary.
Family Practice News, 6/1/04, p. 54
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