Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that involves the over-growth of rough, dead skin cells that form into reddish, scaly bumps. It generally develops on the elbows, knees, groin, lower-back or scalp. Though not contagious, psoriasis causes pain, itching and discomfort. Treatment may include topical creams, medications, exercise and dietary changes. Certain nutrients may help alleviate psoriasis, but a doctor's guidance is suggested prior to taking dietary supplements, as they may cause side effects and interact with medications.
Fish Oil
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids--essential fats the body can't produce on its own. Omega-3 fats are known to promote heart health and brain function. They may also reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis. Fish oil is found in cold-water fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. It can also be reaped from supplements. According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 3g of fish oil ingested daily is generally considered safe and may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms. Cold-water fish and fish oil supplements are recommended as optimum sources of omega-3 fatty acids. However, those who do not consume fish or fish-products can reap omega-3 fats from other sources, such as ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnuts, walnut oil and canola oil.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a B vitamin the body utilizes to produce cells. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests 400mcg of folic acid daily as a potentially helpful component of nutritional therapy for people with psoriasis. Food sources of folic acid include vitamin-fortified breakfast cereals, orange juice from concentrate, cooked spinach, cooked asparagus, lentils, lima beans and whole grain breads, pasta and rice. Folic acid can also be reaped through dietary supplements. They come in single-nutrient supplements, as an ingredients in B-complex supplements and within most basic, prenatal and women's multi-vitamins.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that, like calcium, contributes to bone health and development. According to research published in "The New England Journal of Medicine" in July 2007, vitamin D deficiency is linked with numerous medical conditions, including psoriasis. Vitamin D is found in supplements, numerous foods and is synthesized by the body through sun exposure. Food sources of vitamin D include salmon, mackerel, tuna, beef liver, cheese, eggs, certain mushrooms and vitamin-fortified milk, juices, margarine and cereals. The National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements suggests that adults ages 18 to 50 attain 200 international units, or IU, per day, adults ages 50 to 70 attain 400 IUs per day, and adults over age 70 consume 600 IUs per day.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Psoriasis Lifestyle Remedies
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Psoriasis Facts, Symptoms and Treatment
- "The New England Journal of Medicine"; Vitamin D Deficiency; Dr. Michael F. Holick; July 2007
- National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D Facts and Recommendations
