Foods that could protect against the occurrence of stretch marks?

Anticipating the onset of stretch marks can prevent the need to address them once they have formed. This prevention can be achieved through an appropriate diet. Indeed, a link has been found between the vitamin D and the appearance of stretch marks on the skin.

A study conducted by Alexandre VONTOBEL PADOIN aimed to investigate the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and the occurrence of stretch marks in women who have undergone breast surgery. Blood levels of vitamin D were measured prior to the surgical procedure. In the serum of women without stretch marks, the average vitamin D level was 27 ng/mL, and in cases with stretch marks, it was 20 ng/mL. Low vitamin D levels were observed in 56.71% of stretch mark cases and in 39.91% of cases without stretch marks.

Lower serum levels of vitamin D are thus linked to a higher occurrence of stretch marks. The expression of hormonal receptors, such as those of estrogens, androgens, and glucocorticoids, would be more numerous in skin affected by stretch marks compared to healthy skin. Recent data confirm the negative role of vitamin D in estrogen receptors; vitamin D deficiency therefore leads to an increase in estrogen receptors. This increase in estrogen receptors observed in cases of vitamin D deficiency can probably explain the higher incidence of stretch marks in women with low levels of vitamin D.

Nevertheless, additional studies are necessary to confirm these results and precisely identify the mechanisms involved.

Which foods should be prioritized?

In order to prevent the occurrence of stretch marks, monitoring your vitamin D levels can be a beneficial practice. The intake of vitamin D varies and comes from skin synthesis after sun exposure, as well as from the oral intake of enriched foods. Here are a few examples.