Dietary Therapy for the Treatment of Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis

Abstract: This paper explores the effects of dietary adjustment on the symptoms of primary palmar hyperhidrosis (PPH) through two case reports. The study found that restricting patients to a diet consisting solely of beef, while avoiding other types of meat such as pork, duck, and fish, can have a positive impact on PPH symptoms. Patient 1 reported a reduction in hand sweating and alleviation of symptoms after four weeks of dietary adjustment; however, the symptoms worsened after discontinuing the dietary regimen. This ABA experimental design (with phase A representing the absence of dietary adjustment and phase B representing adherence to the dietary adjustment) provides direct evidence for the efficacy of dietary therapy. Patient 2 reported a reduction in back sweating after the dietary adjustment, despite having previously undergone surgical treatment. This suggests that dietary adjustment may have a potential positive effect on PPH symptoms and could also mitigate compensatory sweating following surgery. 
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, hand sweating is associated with internal damp heat in the spleen and stomach, and the cooling properties of beef may help regulate internal balance and clear residual heat. Although dietary therapy has shown some efficacy, these observations require validation through larger-scale clinical studies. Further exploration is also needed to uncover the biochemical mechanisms underlying the effects of dietary therapy on PPH symptoms. Integrating dietary therapy into a comprehensive treatment plan for PPH, alongside pharmacological and surgical treatments, may provide patients with more holistic and personalized therapeutic options.