Fish Oil & Psoriasis

Almost 150,000 new cases of psoriasis are diagnosed in the United States every year, and nearly 7.5 million Americans suffer from the disorder, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriasis sufferers have skin cells that grow too fast to be shed by the body and these cells build up on the skin to form lesions, which usually occur on the knees, elbows, lower back and scalp. No one knows the cause of psoriasis but it is thought that diet may have a role to play in its treatment.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Fish Oils

Omega-3 fatty acids are fats found in oily fish, whole grains, nuts and nut oils, olive oil, garlic and fruit and vegetables. Fish oils are sources of omega-3 that derive from oily fish such as sardines, herring, mackerel, salmon and albacore tuna. Omega-6 fatty acids are fats found in red meat, eggs and many baked goods. According to the Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health, human beings probably evolved on a diet that included equal quantities of both omega-3 and omega-6 oils but the average American now consumes 15 to 16 times more omega-6 oils than omega-3s.

Effects of the Imbalance

This discrepancy has led to an escalation of diseases such as heart disease, cancer and inflammatory conditions, say the Center for Genetics, Nutrition and Health, but studies looking into the effects of fish oils on psoriasis have heralded mixed results. A trial published in Pubmed found omega-3 fatty acids effective in the treatment of psoriasis when administered intravenously. Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that nutritional factors such as omega-3 fish oils can be used to treat inflammatory skin conditions although it concludes that more data is needed.

What does the Research Say?

The National Psoriasis Foundation report the supplementation of fish oil has had positive effects on the immune and cardiovascular systems in laboratory animals. As psoriasis is a disease of the immune system, it is possible that fish oils could affect it favorably. However, a recent review published in Pubmed found that only one controlled study in four demonstrated a benefit of fish oils compared to a placebo.

How Can Fish Oils be Taken?

Add two portions of oily fish to your diet each week or try supplements. You can buy fish oil capsules and fish oils to supplement your food but be careful to buy from companies that can certify their products are not contaminated with dangerous heavy metals like mercury or lead.

What if I am Taking Other Medication?

You should never take supplements without seeking advice from a healthcare professional. Fish oils may interact with certain medications including diabetes medications, blood thinning medications including aspirin and warfarin, topical corticosteroids, medications for lowering cholesterol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.