The chronic, autoimmune disorder characterised by patches of depigmented skin has no causal connection to diet. 

By Naveed Ahmad Najar 

It is a widely held traditional belief that consuming fish and milk together can lead to skin problems, specifically vitiligo. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim.

Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition characterised by patches of depigmented skin. The pigment melanin, which is made by melanocytes, gives the body parts their colours. In vitiligo patients, the destruction of melanocytes causes the loss of skin colour.

Dr Dilshad Akhtar Khan, a dermatologist from Kashmir, India, says, “Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder that can be treated surgically and in other medical ways. While consuming fish and milk together may cause digestive issues in allergic individuals, it does not cause skin problems such as vitiligo.”

Individuals who are lactose intolerant or have a sensitive digestive system may be advised to avoid consuming milk and fish together. However, there’s no scientific reason to believe that it can cause a chronic, autoimmune disorder. 

Trust facts, not myths.