Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder where the skin develops thick raised, red patches of itchy and silvery-scaled skin. Psoriasis is thought to be related to a defect in skin cells caused by a disordered immune system. The exact cause is, however, unknown and unfortunately no definitive cure has been found. Despite this, the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, or CSNN, states that proper nutrition may play an important role in the treatment of psoriasis.
Eat a Plant-Based Diet
According to Phyllis Balch in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," if you suffer from psoriasis, you should eat a diet that consists of 50 percent raw foods and include plenty of fruits, grains, fish and vegetables. CSNN states that these foods also contain "food sterols," which may help to modulate the immune system of psoriatic patients.
Reduce Arachidonic Acid
Balch recommends avoiding citrus fruit, fried foods, processed foods, sugar and white flour. She also says that you should not consume saturated fats found in meat, dairy and eggs. She explains that these animal foods are high in arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid, which has been linked to psoriasis. Additionally, CSNN recommends eating plenty of coldwater fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and herring because the essential fatty acids found in these fish can help to deactivate arachidonic acid and thereby prevent it from causing inflammation in the first place. Alternatively, you can take a fish oil supplement that contains 3 to 9 g of combined EPA and DHA daily. CSNN also recommends the consumption of onions, garlic and seaweed for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Eat a High-Fiber Diet
A high-fiber diet is suggested for psoriasis sufferers. CSNN explains that high levels of circulating toxins may cause or contribute to psoriasis and fiber can absorb these toxins and help to remove them from the body. CSNN recommends aiming for 30 to 50 g of fiber daily. Chlorophyll containing greens and micro algae may also be helpful because they too can decrease toxins in the body and blood, notes CSNN.
Essential Supplements
In addition to making dietary modifications, CSNN recommends including some nutritional supplements. Vitamin A helps to protect skin tissue and CSNN recommends 50,000 to 100, 000 international units of vitamin A daily. Zinc is necessary for skin healing and CSNN recommends 30 to 50 mg daily. Finally, quercetin has anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties and CSNN recommends taking 500 mg three times a day. If you have psoriasis, it is important that you talk to your health care practitioner and do not take supplements before doing so.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Pathology and Nutrition"; The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; 2008
