Diet and food guidance for scabies

Diet does not kill scabies mites, so it is not a treatment. Good nutrition can help skin heal after the infestation and may lower the risk of secondary infection, but the mite must be treated with medicine.

Foods that support skin healing

• Protein sources such as dal, eggs, fish, paneer and lean meat.
• Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C and E, such as papaya, carrot, citrus, amla, spinach and sweet potato.
• Zinc and healthy fat sources such as nuts, seeds, pulses and whole grains.
• Plenty of water, to keep dry, itchy skin hydrated.
• Curd and other fermented foods if they suit you, for general gut health.

Foods that may worsen itching for some people Very spicy food, hot drinks and alcohol can make flushing and itching feel worse for some people, especially at night. This varies, so notice your own response.

Eating well when sleep is poor Itching at night can disturb sleep. Light dinners, avoiding caffeine in the evening and regular meal times can help.

Allergy-related itch If you also have itch from food allergy or eczema, a doctor can help identify triggers. Do not cut out whole food groups without advice, especially in children.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Ayurveda advises light, bitter and astringent foods, such as bitter gourd, leafy greens and green gram, and avoiding sour, salty, fermented and heavy food during skin disease. This is a traditional guideline with limited research support.

Special groups Children, pregnant women and people with diabetes or kidney disease should follow their own medical diet advice. Diabetes control also lowers the risk of skin infection.

Remember A balanced diet helps the skin recover, while anti-scabies medicine and hygiene stop the infestation.