Psoriasis is an immune disorder that causes symptoms to appear on the skin. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, skin changes occur when the body sends faulty signals to the skin in reaction to various triggers. Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body and is not contagious. It produces thick, scaly patches of red, painful scales on the skin.
Causes
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, researchers do not know precisely what triggers attacks of psoriasis. Most patients carry a gene that predisposes them to the disease. Stress and various medications often are associated with the skin outbreaks, though patients identify most triggers personally. Many people experience outbreaks after eating various foods.
Function
Psoriasis often occurs in conjunction with other food-related disorders. According to MayoClinic.com, obesity is a common disorder in people with the skin disease. The excessive weight brought on by overeating causes psoriasis to form in the folds and creases of fat on the body. Other underlying conditions that often exacerbate psoriasis breakouts include stress, smoking and alcohol consumption.
Considerations
According to MayoClinic.com, patients with the skin disorder should keep a diary of when outbreaks occur to identify personal triggers. Write down the time of day and what you were doing when you first noticed the itching that typically precedes the red, scaly patches. Consider what food you ate most recently as well as other food intolerance signs such as stomach discomfort, diarrhea or nausea. Watch for patterns that could signal a food intolerance to prevent further outbreaks.
Effects
A common food group that triggers psoriasis, eczema and other skin conditions is wheat, or more specifically, gluten. Gluten intolerance, also called celiac disease, affects as many as 15 percent of the general population, according to the Food Intolerance Consumer. Symptoms of wheat intolerance may not appear for several days following consumption, so patients should keep careful daily records. Symptoms associated with celiac disease include nausea, diarrhea, headaches and fatigue.
Potential
Since psoriasis is difficult to treat and often just as difficult to diagnose, patients may be well served to consider the advice of alternative practitioners. Alternative treatments never should be undertaken, however, without the express agreement and follow-up from your primary dermatologist or general practitioner. According to the Allergy and Nutrition Centre, people with psoriasis often find relief by undergoing liver detoxification treatments that remove harmful Candida and other toxins.
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