Not long ago many experts believed that certain foods--like chocolate and greasy pizza--caused acne. We now know this is not the case. However, while these foods may not cause acne, certain other foods can reduce or eliminate it.

Fruits and Vegetables

According to the American Chronicle, vitamin A effectively treats acne. A buildup of dead skin cells causes acne breakouts, and vitamin A improves the pores' ability to remove dead skin cells, which in turn lessens the likelihood of them becoming clogged. People using vitamin A to treat acne should talk to their health care provider to find out how much is right for them.

Carrots are one of the best sources of vitamin A. Other excellent sources are spinach, cantaloupes, apricots and papayas. The daily recommended amount (RDA) of vitamin A as set by the National Institute of Health is 900 for males and 700 mcg for females over 14 years of agey. (Just one raw carrot exceeds the RDA.) There is generally no harm in exceeding the RDA except for in extreme cases usually caused by taking too many supplements.

Tuna Fish

Selenium can effectively treat acne, according to Acne Team. In order for selenium to be effective, it must be combined with vitamin E. Try to consume between 200 and 400 mcg of selenium daily. One serving of tuna fish will help reach this goal. However, due to mercury and other contaminants in fish, try not to exceed two servings of fish per week. Other sources of selenium include eggs, orange juice, meat, nuts and mushrooms.

Note that exceeding 400 mcg can cause severe medical problems, including depression and hair loss.

Nuts

Not only are nuts a source of selenium, but they also contain vitamin E, which makes them optimal for treating acne. The RDA for vitamin E set by the National Institute of Health is 15 mg daily for both males and females. Almonds are the best source, followed by hazelnuts and peanuts. Sunflower seeds, spinach, broccoli and tomatoes are all good sources as well.