Processed food consumption, particularly pickles and processed meats, is linked with atopic dermatitis in Chinese adults.
This study involved a series of three cross-sectional studies that used cluster sampling across different locales, including villages, institutions, and factories. Subjects from different socio-economic and occupational backgrounds, including rural residents, civil servants, and factory workers, were subjected to dermatological evaluations by certified dermatologists. Alongside this, they responded to a food frequency questionnaire designed to understand their regular dietary habits. A spot urine sample was also taken from each participant to get an accurate measure of their daily sodium intake.
The analysis of results showed a significant association between atopic dermatitis and the consumption of certain processed foods - specifically, pickles and processed meats. It was found that people consuming pickles and processed meats 1-3 times a week were more likely to develop atopic dermatitis compared to individuals who rarely or never consumed these foods. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between higher sodium intake and the incidence of atopic dermatitis. The trend shows a dose-dependent relationship, meaning that as the intake of these specific processed foods, and sodium increased, so did the chances of coming down with atopic dermatitis.
