Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Publication

A Nutrition-Centered Cookbook For Adolescents And Adults With Hidradentitis Suppurativa

Mayomi, Tobi
Citations
Altmetric:
Abstract

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, autoinflammatory skin disease characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tract formation in areas of the body rich in apocrine glands, such as the axillae, groin, buttocks, and inframammary regions. Though once considered a disorder of sweat glands, growing evidence confirms HS arises from follicular occlusion and immune dysregulation. This results in cycles of inflammation, tissue destruction, and scarring that can significantly impair quality of life. The condition often begins in early adulthood and disproportionately affects women and individuals of African descent, particularly those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. The pathophysiology of HS involves clogged hair follicles, which eventually rupture and cause immune cells to enter the area. This immune cascade includes inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-17, which contribute to lesion formation and chronic inflammation. Risk factors such as obesity, smoking, hormonal fluctuations, and stress have all been implicated in the disease process. In addition, dietary patterns, including the consumption of high-glycemic-index foods, dairy products, and saturated fats, may exacerbate inflammation and are being explored as modifiable contributors to disease activity. Despite its prevalence, HS is widely under diagnosed and misunderstood. Patients may wait up to a decade for an accurate diagnosis, often undergoing multiple ineffective treatments for misidentified skin conditions. The resulting delay can worsen disease severity, increase psychological burden, and limit access to appropriate care. Poor management is associated with debilitating pain, affect on mobility, and significant emotional distress, including depression and anxiety. While pharmacologic therapies such as antibiotics and biologics offer symptom relief, there is growing recognition that lifestyle interventions, including nutrition, can play a pivotal role in disease management. Emerging research supports dietary modifications, including reduced intake of dairy and simple sugars and increased consumption of anti-inflammatory foods, as potential strategies to reduce flare frequency and severity. However, many patients lack access to structured, evidence-based dietary guidance to support these changes. The objectives of this project are twofold: (1) to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature exploring the relationship between diet and HS symptom management, with a focus on evidence-based nutritional strategies, and (2) to develop a nutrition-focused cookbook designed specifically for individuals with HS. The goal is to empower patients with practical, evidence-informed recipes and guidance to support sustainable dietary changes that may reduce disease burden, improve symptom management, and enhance overall quality of life.

Comments
Description
Date
2025-12-13
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Keywords
nutrition, hidradentitis suppurativa
Citation
Mayomi, Tobi. "A Nutrition-Centered Cookbook For Adolescents And Adults With Hidradentitis Suppurativa." Capstone project, Georgia State University, 2025. https://doi.org/10.57709/ae3x-gw55
Embargo Lift Date
Embedded videos