Gut health | Eczema Eaze 2

Gut Health and Eczema – What's the Link?

When people think about eczema, they often focus on the skin. But what if the root cause lies deeper — in your gut?

Recent research and real-life stories suggest that the health of your gut microbiome (the community of bacteria in your digestive system) can have a direct impact on skin conditions like eczema. In fact, a healthy gut could be one of your biggest allies in reducing flare-ups and supporting long-term skin healing.

Let’s dive into how gut health and eczema are connected — and what you can do to support both.

What Is Gut Health?

Your gut isn’t just a tube for digesting food. It’s home to trillions of bacteria, both good and bad, that play a vital role in your overall health — including your immune system, skin function, mental health, and inflammation levels.

When your gut bacteria are in balance, your body runs smoothly. But when there’s an imbalance (known as dysbiosis), it can lead to a variety of health issues — including eczema.

How Gut Health Affects Eczema

1. The Gut-Skin Connection (Gut-Skin Axis)

There’s a strong communication line between your gut and your skin, often called the gut-skin axis. When the gut is irritated, inflamed, or imbalanced, it can send out distress signals that show up on your skin in the form of rashes, inflammation, and eczema.

2. Leaky Gut Syndrome

If your gut lining becomes damaged (a condition called leaky gut), undigested food particles, toxins, or bacteria can pass into the bloodstream. This triggers your immune system — potentially leading to allergic reactions and skin flare-ups.

3. Weakened Immune Response

A large part of your immune system lives in your gut. If your gut bacteria are out of balance, your immune system may become overactive or confused, which can worsen eczema and increase skin sensitivity.

4. Inflammation From Within

Processed foods, antibiotics, alcohol, and stress can all harm your gut bacteria and increase inflammation. Chronic inflammation from the gut can spread to the skin, leading to red, itchy, and irritated patches.

How to Improve Gut Health to Support Eczema

1. Eat More Whole, Unprocessed Foods

Fill your diet with fibre-rich vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. These nourish your gut bacteria and support digestion.

2. Add Probiotic Foods

Probiotics are “good” bacteria that help restore balance in your gut. Try adding:

Plain yogurt
Sauerkraut
Kimchi
Miso
Kefir

Or consider a high-quality probiotic supplement (check with your GP first).

3. Include Prebiotic Foods

Prebiotics feed your good bacteria. Great sources include:

Bananas
Oats
Onions
Garlic
Asparagus

4. Cut Back on Gut Irritants

Reduce or avoid:

Processed foods
Refined sugars
Alcohol
Artificial sweeteners
Overuse of antibiotics

5. Stay Hydrated

Water supports digestion and helps flush toxins from your system. Aim for 6–8 glasses of filtered water daily.

6. Manage Stress

Chronic stress can mess with your gut flora and worsen eczema. Try yoga, journaling, or daily walks to keep stress levels low.

Should You Get Tested?

If your eczema is severe, persistent, or linked with food issues, you might benefit from gut health or allergy testing. This can help pinpoint imbalances or sensitivities that may be contributing to your skin issues.

Speak to your GP, dermatologist, or a nutritionist to explore your options.

Final Thoughts

Healing your eczema might start in a place you never expected — your gut. While improving gut health isn’t a quick fix, it’s a powerful step toward long-term skin relief and overall well-being.

By eating the right foods, supporting your microbiome, and reducing inflammation, you’re not just helping your gut — you’re giving your skin the chance to thrive.