Dietary interventions and food choices may influence the management of psoriasis symptoms: Discover seven effective methods, foods to eat, and handy tips.
In the ongoing quest for better health, people with psoriasis can find relief and improvement in their symptoms through dietary changes. This condition, characterized by dry, itchy, and scaly skin, is a life-long autoimmune condition that can be managed with the right approach [1].
One such approach involves incorporating foods that are rich in anti-inflammatory properties and nutrients, while limiting or avoiding those that may trigger flare-ups.
**Foods to Include for Managing Psoriasis**
Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and lake trout, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties shown to benefit psoriasis and other inflammatory diseases [1][5]. Emphasize a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables such as berries, leafy greens, carrots, squash, citrus fruits, broccoli, and cauliflower. These provide antioxidants and fiber which can reduce inflammation and promote healthy digestion [1][3].
Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole oats are preferred over refined grains as they help regulate blood sugar and inflammation [1]. Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, contain healthy fats and nutrients associated with improved skin health and reduced inflammation [1][5].
Healthy fats, such as olive oil and avocado, provide omega-6 fatty acids in a beneficial form and support skin healing when consumed in moderation (around 2 tablespoons per day) [1][3]. Legumes, like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans, are good plant-based protein sources with anti-inflammatory benefits [1][3].
Herbs and spices, such as turmeric and ginger, contain compounds (curcumin in turmeric) that have anti-inflammatory effects. While some studies and dermatologists suggest turmeric supplements may reduce psoriasis severity, usually at relatively high doses and under medical advice [1][2], incorporating these spices into your meals can still offer benefits.
**Foods to Limit or Avoid**
High in saturated fats, red and processed meats may aggravate inflammation [1]. Dairy products can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals, so monitoring tolerance is advised [1]. Refined carbohydrates and sugary snacks, such as white bread and pastries, can promote inflammation [1].
Nightshade vegetables, like tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers, may trigger flare-ups in some people, though this is individual [1]. Alcohol can interfere with treatment and provoke flare-ups [1]. Processed foods often contain additives and preservatives that may worsen symptoms [1].
**How These Dietary Changes Potentially Improve Psoriasis Symptoms**
Psoriasis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition, and diet can influence systemic inflammation and immune function. Anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber may help reduce skin inflammation and support immune regulation. Conversely, foods high in saturated fats, refined sugars, and certain triggers may increase inflammatory markers and exacerbate symptoms. Weight management through a healthy diet can also improve psoriasis outcomes, as obesity is a risk factor for increased severity [4].
In summary, adopting a diet similar to the Mediterranean pattern—rich in fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and healthy fats—while avoiding pro-inflammatory foods, can help manage psoriasis and potentially reduce flare-ups [1][3].
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to personalize dietary changes according to individual needs and responses. Following a calorie-controlled diet that includes omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may help reduce inflammatory markers and improve psoriasis symptoms [1].
While dietary changes may not cure psoriasis, they can certainly contribute to better overall health, reduced inflammation, and improved symptom management. Remember, a healthful lifestyle, including exercise, may also help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms [3].
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6604826/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4154677/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7340539/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5938715/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3808212/
- Persons with psoriasis might find relief in a diet focused on anti-inflammatory properties and nutrient-rich foods for managing their symptoms.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and lake trout, have proven benefits for psoriasis and other autoimmune disorders.
- Emphasizing a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, such as berries, leafy greens, carrots, squash, citrus fruits, broccoli, and cauliflower, provides antioxidants and fiber for reduced inflammation and promotion of healthy digestion.
- Whole grains, like brown rice, quinoa, and whole oats, are preferred over refined grains for regulating blood sugar and inflammation levels.
- Nuts and seeds, including almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds, offer healthy fats and nutrients that contribute to improved skin health and reduced inflammation.
- Healthy fats, such as olive oil and avocado, support skin healing when consumed in moderation and provide omega-6 fatty acids for overall health.
- Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, and black beans, offer anti-inflammatory benefits and are good plant-based protein sources.
- Herbs and spices, such as turmeric and ginger, have anti-inflammatory effects and can potentially reduce psoriasis severity, though supplements may require medical advice for high doses.
- Red and processed meats, high in saturated fats, may aggravate inflammation and should be limited or avoided.
- Dairy products can cause flare-ups in some individuals, so monitoring tolerance is advised.
- Refined carbohydrates and sugary snacks, such as white bread and pastries, promote inflammation and should be minimized.
- Nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers, may trigger flare-ups in some individuals, though sensitivity varies.
- Alcohol can interfere with treatment and provoke flare-ups, so consumption should be limited or controlled.
- Processed foods often contain additives and preservatives that may worsen symptoms, so limiting them is beneficial.
- This dietary strategy may help reduce inflammation and improve immune regulation, potentially leading to better symptom management and overall health.
- Weight management through a healthy diet can also contribute to improved psoriasis outcomes, as obesity is a risk factor for increased psoriasis severity.
- Consulting a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is essential for personalizing dietary changes according to individual needs and responses.
- Adopting a healthful lifestyle—including exercise, fitness-and-exercise, mental-health support, skin-care, and therapies-and-treatments—can further help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms and contribute to chronic-disease and workplace-wellness.
