Does Dairy Make Eczema Worse? A Look at the Science
If you or your child lives with eczema or dermatitis, you’ve probably wondered, is dairy making this worse?
It’s one of the most common questions I’m asked in clinic, and one of the most searched for online. From milk to cheese, yoghurt to ice cream, dairy often tops the list of suspected triggers. But does it really deserve the blame?
In my latest Substack article, I take a closer look at what the science says about dairy and eczema. I reviewed high-quality research, not just opinions or anecdotes, to get a clearer picture — and the results might surprise you.
The short version? Cutting out dairy only seems to help when there’s a confirmed allergy or intolerance. For everyone else, it may not be the game changer it’s often made out to be.
Of course, your body is unique. For some people, it’s not the dairy itself, but the histamine content in aged cheeses or the impact of poor gut health that causes issues. For others, dairy has no effect at all.
In this article, I explore:
- Why dairy is so often blamed for eczema
- What the strongest research tells us
- How to spot whether dairy is really the issue
- The role of histamine in certain dairy products
- What happens when you cut out dairy without a plan
- How to trial dairy exclusion safely, if needed
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a half-eaten slice of pizza and wondering whether it’s fuelling your flare, this article is for you.
WHO AM I?
I’m Jessica Fonteneau, the Eczema and Digestive Health Nutrition Expert. I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to help them change their diets, better manage their flares, and find relief.
My vocation is to help those with eczema and digestive issues, because I have suffered with these interlinked conditions since I was 6 months old, and I truly know what it is like to experience these debilitating conditions.
Every client I have ever worked with has their own triggers and ideal nutrition. There is no such thing as ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether you work with me one-to-one or use my guided tools, my objective is to help you uncover what works best for you, so that you take back control and experience relief.
My guided programmes are only suitable for adults as children have very specific nutrition requirements. I do, however, work with many child clients as part of my clinic.
To easily keep up with my articles, masterclasses, ebooks and online programmes and receive exclusive access to early bird offers, subscribe to my Substack, The Eczema Trap® here.
Google Reviews
Basit Gilani
5 months ago
We have been working with Jessica for a while now for my son’s eczema and many food intolerances. We have come a long way with him tolerating a lot more foods whilst previously being on such a limited diet. We have seen a huge difference in his skin too. One thing we love about working with her is that she is highly knowledgeable about how the gut works, what food works well and how to carefully introduce food to increase tolerance. We would honestly be so lost without her support. She provides timely responses if we have any concerns and always has such an empathetic approach if we have a little bump in our journey.
I would recommend Jessica to any parents struggling with their childs eczema or any individuals out there trying to figure out eczema, want to naturally heal through foods and identifying triggers to get relief in your flares.
I would recommend Jessica to any parents struggling with their childs eczema or any individuals out there trying to figure out eczema, want to naturally heal through foods and identifying triggers to get relief in your flares.
Insight Parenting
7 months ago
I have no hesitation in highly recommending Jessica. She really knows her stuff! I first consulted her six months ago with lack of appetite, lack of energy and depression, not unrelated to having recently become a widow. Right from the start I was very impressed at the way Jessica really listened to me during her consultations, writing very thorough and detailed reports afterwards with her holistic recommendations . Six months later I am eating better, have more energy and even able to go dancing regularly (which is not bad for a 74 year old!) Thank you Jessica
Katharina Ehrhart
10 months ago
Jessica has helped save my sanity when I was suffering from unexplained symptoms. She very quickly identified that this could be the side effects of an overdose of supplements and once I discontinued these, I felt better quickly. I continued working with Jessica on other food and lifestyle questions and always found her extremely helpful, patient and knowledgable. I would recommend her to friends and family.
Olivia Churchill
10 months ago
Jessica was a fantastic support when my 1 year old developed severe eczema. We worked together to identify the root cause of her symptoms and Jessica advised an easy to follow, realistic and successful protocol for us to follow to help her manage this. My daughter’s skin significantly calmed down within weeks and although it’s been a long journey her eczema has now disappeared. Jessica has extensive knowledge on eczema and created a personal plan for us to follow. She was always available and willing to help and reassure where needed. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking for support with nutrition or skin issues. Thank you so much!
Farah Fenoughty
1 year ago
We have been working with Jessica Fonteneau for several months now. From the very first consultation Jessica was empathetic and listened attentively to concerns about our son's health and Eczema. Since then we are really seeing the benefits of her advice and nutritional recommendations. I have learnt so much! Jessica's offers practical and manageable solutions and doesn't bombard you with too much information or unattainable goals. I am so glad we found Jessica Fonteneau and highly recommend.
Evie Smith
1 year ago
After struggling with severe eczema nearly all my life and trying countless steroid creams/emollients prescribed by dermatology consultants I have finally been able to take back control of my skin through Jessica's trigger identifying diet. The skills and tool kit she has provided me with have been life changing and I'm confident I have everything I need to continue my journey without the help of a professional. Jessica has helped me to feel empowered through understanding my body and I am very grateful.
Hayley Brookhouse
2 years ago
Jessica has helped me and my son so much with some persistent eczema on his face. She put together a highly comprehensive plan and considered all aspects of his diet, routine and lifestyle. She has checked in several times since our appointment and I felt she really cared about his health and well-being. Highly recommend to any parents whose child is suffering from an allergy or skin disorder!
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