For some time, I have had a rash on my legs. It would come and go with varying levels of intensity. Sometimes it was just there and I never would have known except to see it. Sometimes it was itchy and dry. Other times it was red and burning. I had been to my regular doctor and a dermatologist and no matter what we tried, it would not go away. A friend had recommended I try coconut oil. I had not heard of this before but after doing a little research on my own, I couldn't believe the amount of uses it has. For a expansive list, click here.
I focused much of my reading on the benefits of using it for skin conditions like eczema (which is the official diagnosis I got at my last visit to the dermatologist) and there seemed to be a fair amount of success. At the same time, I was also researching the effects of certain food on skin. Most of my reading was focused on gluten (which I had already done a good deal of reading about because of my daughter's Celiac Disease diagnosis). Though I tested negative through blood work for Celiac I had long wondered if my skin rash might be an allergic reaction to something I was eating.
I decided, at the same time, to try coconut oil and a dramatic reduction in my gluten intake. I would say I am about 75% gluten free at this point. The difference in my legs is amazing! I can not believe how much less inflamed my skin looks. So far in regard to the gluten reduction, the only difference I can see is in my skin but that alone has been well worth it. I am also very happy that I have found a natural remedy that not only works but smells delicious! I have also used the coconut oil on my body as a general moisturizer, as a sweetener in my coffee and as a cooking oil, all of which I am equally impressed.
