Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that occurs when cells rapidly accumulate on the skin's surface causing itchy, dry, painful, red patches of scaly skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. This skin condition is often linked to a immune system malfunction. Psoriasis symptoms may fluctuate between periods of improvement or remission and periods of exacerbation and activity. In some cases, psoriasis is linked to arthritis, in which case symptoms may also include swollen and stiff joints. A healthy diet consisting of a variety of fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains can help ease your symptoms and improve your condition.
Fruits and Vegetables
If you have psoriasis, increase the amount of colorful fruits and vegetables you consume. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, many fruits and vegetables are low-calorie foods that are rich in nutrients such as fiber and antioxidants. Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can help your body fight off infections and diseases like psoriasis. According to the American Dietetic Association, it is important to consume at least 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables daily in order to receive an adequate supply of vitamins, nutrients and minerals. Colorful fruits and vegetables that can help your psoriasis are apricots, citrus fruits, mangoes, peaches, cantaloupe, tomatoes, spinach, kale, broccoli, peas, bell peppers and carrots.
Fish
Fish may help ease some of the symptoms commonly associated with psoriasis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, herring, halibut, lake trout, mackerel and flounder contain large amounts of omega-3, essential fatty acids that can reduce inflammation in your body and lower your risk for heart disease, cancer and arthritis. According to a 2002 research report published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition," omega-3 fatty acids may improve psoriasis symptoms, such as skin lesions and inflammation when used in conjunction with psoriasis medications. Other foods sources that contain omega-3 fatty acids include flaxseed oil, walnut oil and canola oil. Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can help reduce skin inflammation and improve your condition.
Whole Grains
Adding whole grains to your daily diet can help ease psoriasis symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat flour, popcorn and barley are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. According to the American Dietetic Association, many whole grain foods are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect your body from cellular damage. Other whole grain foods include fortified cereals, wild rice and whole grain bread. Consuming whole grains can help alleviate symptoms commonly associated with psoriasis.
References
- American Dietetic Association: Antioxidants
- Office of Dietary Supplements: National Institutes of Health
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrition"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases; Artemis P. Simopoulos; 2002
- MayoClinic.com: Psoriasis: Can Changing My Diet Treat Psoriasis?
- American Diabetes Association: Whole Grain Foods
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