Integrative Approaches to Treating HS, Part 3

Sonal Choudhary, MD, a Dermatopathologist, Dermatologist, and Director of the Integrative Dermatology and Skincare Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Jazmyn Phillips, PA-C, a Dermatology Physician Assistant at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, discuss some of the co-morbidities that travel with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) such as inflammatory bowel disease, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. They also weigh in on the role that certain diets can play in managing HS symptoms and keeping flares at bay. Key Takeaways:

• A yeast-free diet, specifically avoiding brewer's yeast, may be a helpful dietary approach for managing HS

• High glycemic index foods, saturated fats, and dairy can trigger HS flares in some people

• Mediterranean diets, which are rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, seafood, beans, and nuts, may be beneficial for people with HS

• GLP-1 agonists may reduce certain inflammatory markers in the HS pathway, but more research is needed before any blanket recommendations can be made