For some people, the end of a meal is marked by a reddening of the face, which may be accompanied by heat or even a burning sensation. This is one of the main symptoms of Rosacea, which frequently appears in the post-prandial period. Dermatologist Marc Perrussel takes a closer look at the phenomena that can lead to rosacea attacks, particularly those linked to diet.
Why does Rosacea flare up after meals?
First of all, it's important to know that the simple act of eating (especially if the meal is copious), is a factor in triggering Rosacea flare-ups. "Digestion promotes dilation. After eating, we're in the throes of metabolic activity, which causes an influx of blood," explains Marc Perrussel. "But you have to imagine that the face works like a car's radiator. It tries to regulate its temperature, sending blood either to the heart or to the brain. The problem with rosacea is that the sphincter that makes this possible doesn't work properly. So the blood vessels in the face dilate and retain blood, causing the sensation of heat, even burning and redness."
Alcohol and Rosacea: myth or reality?
Alcohol is also one of the things that tend to increase Rosacea flare-ups. That said, Marc Perrussel insists that it is not responsible for the disease, contrary to popular belief. "People who get flush after a meal are often told that they must have finished the glasses of wine on the table... The disease is unfairly associated with alcoholism. It goes back to the time of the coachmen, who waited for their masters in the wind and cold. To keep warm, they often carried a bottle of red wine with them. But the real problem was that their faces were subjected to extreme climatic conditions, which are part of the triggering factors for rosacea, in addition to the genetic factor." On the other hand, he notes that alcohol is a vasodilator, and therefore tends to favor the appearance of redness on the face when rosacea is present.
Foods to avoid against Rosacea attacks
Certain ingredients in our diet are already known to promote these "flushes". These include hot drinks, notes Ameli.fr. And coffee in particular," adds the dermatologist. As for the types of food to avoid, Marc Perrussel is not in favor of restrictive diets, on the grounds that some foods are inflammatory and others less so. He believes that there is insufficient scientific evidence to impose a diet on patients who already suffer a great deal from this condition.