Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder caused by an immune system response. A healthy diet can benefit people with psoriasis. Dietary interventions like vitamin supplementation and the avoidance of certain foods may also minimize symptoms of psoriasis. Herbal supplements may also benefit psoriasis but many have not be proven to be effective.
Psoriasis
According to the Mayo Clinic, psoriasis is characterized by thick scales and dry, itchy, red patches on the skin. Psoriasis can cause dry, cracked skin, bleeding, burning or sore skin; thick or pitted nails and swollen or stiff joints. Psoriasis cannot be cured but treatments can minimize symptoms and encourage remission.
General Recommendations
The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) says a healthy diet can help manage psoriasis. The basic principle of a healthy diet is to eat a variety of nutrient-dense food with emphasis on plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables. The NPF recommends limiting sodium, added sugar, fat and cholesterol.
Obesity
According to the Mayo Clinic, obesity is a risk factor for psoriasis and weight loss can improve the effectiveness of psoriasis medications. A healthy diet for obesity prevention and weight loss focuses on naturally low-calorie foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean proteins. It limits foods high in calories, fat and added sugar. The NDF says portion control is also a key component of weight management.
Vitamins
The NPF says individuals with psoriasis should consider taking a multivitamin. This may be especially important for people with a poor diets. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, vitamins A, C, E and biotin support healthy skin. Vitamins A, C and E are antioxidants. Antioxidants are found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and protect the body by destroying toxins that damage cells and tissues. The Mayo Clinic says foods that are particularly high in antioxidants include dark orange and green-colored vegetables, tomatoes, blueberries, nuts, yellow and orange-colored fruits, beans, legumes, peas and fish. Biotin is found in liver, meat and certain fruits and vegetables. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns psoriasis patients against taking vitamin A and D supplements because these vitamins are often included in prescription medications for psoriasis and can be toxic in high doses.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids found in fish oil, vegetables oils, seeds and nuts. According to the UMMC, studies have shown a reduction in redness, itching and scaling from psoriasis with fish oil use and the Mayo Clinic says omega-3s have also been associated with reduced inflammation from psoriasis. The UMMC advises that fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding and is not recommended for people on blood-thinners like Coumadin or aspirin. Individuals interested in fish oil should consult a physician because supplemental fish oil is not federally regulated and can have side effects and medication interactions.
Alcohol
The AAD recommends that people with psoriasis avoid alcohol, while the Mayo Clinic warns that heavy alcohol consumption can trigger psoriasis. Alcohol may also decrease the effectiveness of some psoriasis treatments.
Supplements
Dietary supplements and herbs may benefit psoriasis but many have not been scientifically proven to be safe or effective and are not federally regulated. The UMMC says supplements and herbs that have been used to treat psoriasis include shark cartilage, Oregon grape, avocado and vitamin B12 cream, aloe, Coleus forskohlii and oregano oil.
