Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes reddish, scaly areas on your scalp, knees, elbows, groin or lower back. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, psoriasis is common, affecting more than 6 million Americans. It is not contagious, but it can cause bothersome symptoms, including cracked or puss-filled skin areas, discolored fingernails and joint pain. Certain foods and a nutrient-rich diet may improve your symptoms and overall health if you suffer from psoriasis.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide valuable amounts of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Since processed carbohydrates and simple sugars may worsen psoriasis symptoms, opt for whole grain foods over processed varieties as often as possible. Whole grains also provide rich amounts of folate---a B vitamin some patients with psoriasis lack. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, gluten, a storage protein found in wheat, barley and rye, can trigger psoriasis symptoms. If this is the case for you, select gluten-free grains, such as brown, wild and basmati rice, as well as gluten-free oats, spelt and whole grain corn. If you are affected by gluten, additional valuable options include whole wheat, bulgur and barley. Foods made from whole grains include 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, whole wheat or rice-based pasta, quinoa, barley soup, old-fashioned or steel-cut oats and air-popped popcorn. Consume a variety of whole grain sources routinely for maximum benefits.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide significant amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which enhance your body's ability to combat infections and disease. As foods rich in fiber and water, yet relatively low in calories, fresh fruits and vegetables also support healthy weight management. This is important since weight gain increases your risk for psoriasis, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, cherries, papaya, kiwi, cantaloupe, apples, pears, tomatoes, kale, spinach, mustard greens, bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, carrots and sweet potatoes. Though fresh varieties are ideal, frozen, canned and dried varieties, with no added sugars, provide valuable secondary options. Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables regularly for the broadest nutritional benefits.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats your body requires but cannot produce. According to a research review published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" in 2002, omega-3 fatty acids may effectively improve psoriasis symptoms when consumed with drug therapy and prolong the benefits of certain psoriasis medications. Omega-3 fats are also known to reduce inflammation, which may improve joint pain symptoms and reduce pain, redness and inflammation of the skin. Valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, mackerel, herring, lake trout and flounder. Other good sources are ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnuts, walnut oil and canola oil. Limit saturated fats and trans fats, which may worsen your symptoms, and incorporate unsaturated fats, such as omega-3s, into your diet regularly for best results.
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