Millions of people worldwide live with psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. Managing its symptoms can often be supported through dietary changes. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between psoriasis and diet. You’ll learn about foods that may trigger inflammation and those to avoid. We’ll also guide you through beneficial dietary choices and various diet plans that could make a difference in skin health. Finally, a word of caution: while diet is a powerful tool, it should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with healthcare professionals when managing health conditions.
What is the relationship between psoriasis and your diet?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterised by the rapid turnover of skin cells, resulting in the formation of red, scaly patches on the skin’s surface. While genetics play a significant role in its development, emerging evidence suggests that diet can also influence the severity of symptoms.
Recent research has shown that the foods we consume can impact the immune system and inflammation levels in the body. For individuals with psoriasis, an overactive immune response and chronic inflammation are key drivers of the condition. Therefore, understanding how your diet affects these factors is crucial in managing psoriasis effectively.
How do foods cause inflammation?
Inflammation is a key factor in psoriasis flare-ups. Certain foods can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, exacerbating psoriasis symptoms. These inflammatory triggers can disrupt the skin’s delicate balance and lead to more severe outbreaks.
Inflammation occurs when the body’s immune system perceives a threat and responds by releasing chemicals and white blood cells to combat it. In the case of psoriasis, this response is misguided, causing skin cells to multiply at an accelerated rate. This process results in the characteristic red, scaly patches.
Now, let’s delve into the specifics of how your diet can either fuel or calm this inflammatory response.
Foods to avoid if you have psoriasis
There are some foods that psoriasis patients should avoid. Let’s learn about them.
Red meat and dairy
A diet rich in red meat and dairy products can be detrimental for psoriasis patients. These foods are often high in saturated fats, which can contribute to inflammation. Saturated fats can stimulate the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, aggravating psoriasis symptoms.
Instead of red meat, consider leaner protein sources like poultry, fish, and plant-based options. Swap dairy for alternatives such as almond milk, soy yoghurt, or coconut-based cheese. These substitutions can help reduce saturated fat intake and, subsequently, inflammation.
Gluten
Gluten, found in wheat, barley, and rye, is known to trigger inflammation in some individuals. Adopting a gluten-free diet may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms for those sensitive to gluten.
Gluten sensitivity can lead to heightened inflammation in the gut, which can, in turn, affect the skin. While not everyone with psoriasis reacts to gluten, it’s worth monitoring your intake to see if it affects you. Gluten-free grains like rice, quinoa, and gluten-free oats can be excellent substitutes.
Processed foods
Processed foods are packed with preservatives, artificial additives, and trans fats. These ingredients can increase inflammation in the body, worsening psoriasis symptoms. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
Processed foods often contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to water retention and worsen swelling associated with psoriasis. By choosing fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, you can reduce your sodium intake and promote overall skin health.
Nightshades
Nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants contain compounds called alkaloids, which may promote inflammation in some people. While not everyone with psoriasis reacts to nightshades, it’s worth monitoring your intake to see if they affect you.
If you suspect nightshades are a trigger for your psoriasis, consider swapping them out for alternative vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes. These options can still provide essential nutrients without potentially exacerbating your symptoms.
Alcohol
Alcohol can dehydrate the body and weaken the immune system, potentially triggering psoriasis flare-ups. Limit your alcohol consumption and stay well-hydrated with water instead.
Alcohol can also interfere with medications prescribed to manage psoriasis, making them less effective. It’s crucial to strike a balance between enjoying an occasional drink and ensuring it doesn’t negatively impact your skin health.
Here is a table summarising the foods that psoriasis patients should avoid and the reasons behind avoiding them:
| Food | Why to Avoid | Alternatives |
| Red Meat and Dairy | High in saturated fats, leading to inflammation | Lean protein sources like poultry, fish, and plant-based options. Substitute dairy with almond milk, soy yoghurt, or coconut-based cheese. |
| Gluten | Can trigger inflammation in some individuals | Consider adopting a gluten-free diet with alternatives like rice, quinoa, and gluten-free oats. |
| Processed Foods | Packed with preservatives, additives, and trans fats, leading to inflammation | Opt for whole, unprocessed foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. |
| Nightshades | Contain alkaloids that may promote inflammation in some people | Swap nightshades with alternative vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and sweet potatoes. |
| Alcohol | Dehydrates the body, weakens the immune system, and can trigger flare-ups | Limit alcohol consumption and stay well-hydrated with water. Ensure it doesn’t interfere with psoriasis medications. |
Foods to eat if you have psoriasis
You might be thinking there is too much food to avoid. So which one can you eat? Don’t worry! We have covered it for you. So let’s learn about it.
Fruits and vegetables
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help combat inflammation and support overall skin health. Opt for a colourful variety to ensure a broad range of nutrients.
Fruits and vegetables are particularly high in vitamins A and C, both of which play a vital role in skin health. Vitamin A helps regulate skin cell production, while vitamin C promotes collagen formation, aiding in skin repair. Incorporate a rainbow of produce into your diet to maximise the benefits.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known to inhibit the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body. By including fatty fish in your diet, you can introduce a natural anti-inflammatory component that supports skin health.
Heart-healthy oils
Replace saturated fats with heart-healthy oils like olive oil and flaxseed oil. These oils contain monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help soothe inflammation.
Olive oil, in particular, is a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet and is rich in antioxidants that combat free radicals and promote skin health. Drizzle it on salads, use it for cooking, and enjoy its many benefits for your skin.
Nutritional supplements
Consult with your healthcare provider about incorporating supplements like vitamin D, fish oil, and probiotics into your diet. These supplements can support your immune system and promote skin health.
Vitamin D, in particular, is crucial for psoriasis patients, as it helps regulate the immune system and may reduce the risk of psoriasis flare-ups. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the appropriate dosage and supplementation regimen.
Here is a table summarising the foods that psoriasis patients can eat and how
| Food and Supplements | Benefits | How to Incorporate |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that combat inflammation and support skin health. High in vitamins A and C, which aid in skin cell regulation and repair. | Include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your daily meals to ensure a broad range of nutrients. |
| Fatty Fish | Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce psoriasis symptoms. | Incorporate fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines into your diet regularly, ideally at least twice a week. |
| Heart-Healthy Oils | Replace saturated fats with heart-healthy oils like olive oil and flaxseed oil. These oils contain monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids that can soothe inflammation. | Use olive oil for salads and cooking to benefit from its antioxidant-rich properties. |
| Nutritional Supplements | Consult with your healthcare provider about supplements like vitamin D, fish oil, and probiotics. These can support the immune system and skin health. | Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for dosage and supplementation regimen to ensure safe and effective results. |
Diets to consider
Gluten-free
For individuals sensitive to gluten, a gluten-free diet may help reduce inflammation and alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
When adopting a gluten-free diet, it’s essential to read food labels carefully, as gluten can hide in unexpected places. Opt for naturally gluten-free grains like rice, corn, and quinoa, and explore gluten-free alternatives for your favourite foods.
Vegan
A vegan diet, which excludes all animal products, can be rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and plant-based proteins.
A vegan diet is naturally low in saturated fats and cholesterol, making it an excellent choice for reducing inflammation. Ensure you get enough protein from sources like beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts to support your skin’s health.
Mediterranean
The Mediterranean diet emphasises olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit psoriasis patients.
This diet encourages the consumption of foods high in antioxidants, which can neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation. Embrace Mediterranean flavours by drizzling olive oil on salads, enjoying fresh seafood, and savouring a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Paleo
The Paleo diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods and eliminates grains, dairy, and processed foods. Some psoriasis sufferers have found relief with this approach.
By removing potential inflammatory triggers, the Paleo diet aims to reduce the immune system’s burden and promote overall well-being. Experiment with Paleo recipes and explore the world of grain-free alternatives.
Autoimmune protocol diet
This specialised diet targets autoimmune conditions by eliminating potential triggers like nightshades and dairy. It may help manage psoriasis symptoms for some individuals.
The autoimmune protocol diet is designed to reduce inflammation and promote gut health. While it requires dedication and careful food choices, it may offer relief for those with psoriasis affected by specific dietary triggers.
Keto
The ketogenic diet, which is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, may reduce inflammation and improve skin health for some people with psoriasis.
Keto focuses on the body’s utilisation of fats for energy, reducing glucose-related inflammation. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it’s worth exploring if you’re looking for a diet that aligns with your psoriasis management goals.
| Diet | Description | Key Benefits | Tips for Adoption |
| Gluten-free | Eliminates gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, and rye. Ideal for those sensitive to gluten. | Reduces inflammation and potential trigger for psoriasis. | Read food labels carefully, opt for naturally gluten-free grains (rice, corn, quinoa), and explore gluten-free alternatives. |
| Vegan | Excludes all animal products, emphasising fruits, vegetables, and plant-based proteins. | Low in saturated fats and cholesterol, reduces inflammation. | Ensure sufficient protein intake from sources like beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts. |
| Mediterranean | Focuses on olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Known for anti-inflammatory properties. | High in antioxidants, neutralises free radicals, reduces inflammation. | Incorporate olive oil in salads and cooking, enjoy fresh seafood, and consume a variety of fruits and vegetables. |
| Paleo | Emphasises whole, unprocessed foods while eliminating grains, dairy, and processed foods. | Eliminates potential inflammatory triggers, promotes overall well-being. | Explore Paleo recipes and grain-free alternatives. |
| Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) | Targets autoimmune conditions by eliminating potential triggers like nightshades and dairy. | Reduces inflammation, promotes gut health. May offer relief for specific triggers. | Requires dedication and careful food choices. Consult with a healthcare provider. |
| Keto | Low in carbohydrates, high in healthy fats. Focuses on fat for energy, reducing glucose-related inflammation. | May reduce inflammation and improve skin health. | Explore if it aligns with your psoriasis management goals, but not suitable for everyone. Consult with a healthcare provider. |
The Takeaway
In conclusion, your diet plays a significant role in managing psoriasis symptoms. By avoiding inflammatory foods like red meat, dairy, gluten, processed foods, and alcohol, and incorporating anti-inflammatory options like fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, and heart-healthy oils, you can take control of your psoriasis management.
Additionally, exploring various diets such as gluten-free, vegan, Mediterranean, Paleo, autoimmune protocol, or keto may provide further relief. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, and always listen to your body’s unique needs for the best results on your psoriasis journey.
Making these dietary adjustments can be a powerful complement to other psoriasis treatments, such as UVB light therapy for Psoriasis treatment, helping you achieve healthier, more radiant skin. Keep in mind that consistency and patience are key when it comes to managing psoriasis through diet. By prioritising skin-friendly foods and avoiding triggers, you can enjoy a better quality of life with fewer psoriasis flare-ups and more confidence in your skin’s health and appearance.