Psoriasis precipitates inflammation and an accelerated cycle of skin cell regeneration, resulting in uncomfortably itchy and visibly red lesions. A dietary overhaul has the potential to alleviate some of these distressing symptoms.
In instances where an excess of cells ascend to the skin’s surface and the body falls short in its ability to expel them efficiently, they accumulate, forging scaling, itchy, and inflamed patches.
Manifesting at any stage of life, psoriasis typically exhibits two peaks of onset – the initial being between the ages of 20 and 30, and a later peak occurring between 50 and 60. Characterized by itchy, raised patches of dense skin adorned with silvery white scales, the symptoms predominantly affect:
- Elbows
- Knees
- Scalp
- Back
- Face
- Palms
- Feet
Coping with psoriasis can be both infuriating and emotionally taxing. While creams, ointments, medical treatments, and phototherapy may provide relief, emerging research indicates that dietary adjustments could equally contribute to symptom mitigation.
Diet and Psoriasis: The Impact of Nutritional Choices on Skin Health
Although research on the connection between diet and psoriasis remains limited, several small-scale studies have begun to uncover potential links between dietary habits and the severity of the disease.
Low-Calorie Diet and Psoriasis Improvement
Emerging research suggests that a low-calorie or low-energy diet may contribute to alleviating the symptoms of psoriasis. A comprehensive 2018 review of ten clinical trials conducted from 2003 to 2016 revealed an association between a reduced-calorie diet and improved psoriasis in certain cases. Notably, weight loss appeared to enhance the effectiveness of biologic and oral medications in alleviating psoriasis symptoms among study participants.
The connection between obesity, inflammation, and exacerbation of psoriasis has led researchers to theorize that weight loss-promoting diets may offer benefits. However, the precise mechanisms behind the observed symptom improvement remain an area of ongoing investigation.
The Role of Gluten-Free Diets
The effectiveness of a gluten-free diet for psoriasis management appears to vary based on individual sensitivities. For those with celiac disease or wheat allergies, eliminating gluten may provide symptom relief.
A 2020 review assessed existing research on the relationship between gluten-free diets and psoriasis, concluding that there is a general trend toward symptom improvement with gluten avoidance. However, the review emphasized the need for further studies to solidify these findings.
Notably, a 2020 study conducted with women in the United States found no connection between gluten consumption and an increased risk of psoriasis. The study did not consider the impacts of a strictly gluten-free diet.
The Benefits of Antioxidant-Rich Diets
Fruits and vegetables, abundant in antioxidants, are considered particularly beneficial for individuals with psoriasis due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2023 review of dietary influences on psoriasis identified numerous studies supporting the idea that higher intake of fruits and vegetables, coupled with reduced consumption of saturated and unsaturated fats (which may be pro-inflammatory), can lead to better psoriasis outcomes.
Diets like the Mediterranean diet, known for their high antioxidant content, have also been linked to improvements in psoriasis symptoms. Beyond skin health, antioxidant-rich diets may reduce inflammation throughout the body, potentially offering protective effects against conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and various forms of arthritis.
Fish Oil Supplementation for Psoriasis Management
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fats found in fish oil, recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties, have been associated with psoriasis symptom relief. A 2020 review of 18 randomized controlled trials involving fish oil supplementation revealed mixed results. While fish oil appeared to enhance the outcomes of conventional psoriasis treatments in some instances, it demonstrated limited effectiveness as a standalone therapy.
Incorporating fish oil into one’s diet alongside established psoriasis treatments may offer potential benefits; however, further research is warranted to fully understand the extent of this relationship.
Limiting Alcohol Intake
Consuming alcohol may trigger inflammation in some individuals, potentially exacerbating psoriasis. A 2021 review suggests that alcohol can lead to an overproduction of a certain enzyme present in psoriatic skin lesions. While further research is necessary to fully understand the link between alcohol and psoriasis, reducing alcohol intake may alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
Treatment Options for Psoriasis
Current treatments aim to control psoriasis symptoms, which can fluctuate over time. Topical creams and ointments work to lessen inflammation and slow down the rate of skin cell growth, diminishing the visibility of scaly patches. Common components in these treatments include coal tar, dithranol, corticosteroids, vitamin D analog, and retinoids. Phototherapy, or light therapy, has also been effective in decreasing episodes for some patients.
In more severe cases, physicians may prescribe medications, such as methotrexate or cyclosporine, to dampen immune system responses or target specific immune cells. Additional treatment options encompass biologics, JAK inhibitors, and PDE4 inhibitors.