According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, approximately 125 million people worldwide live with psoriasis. Between 10 and 30 percent of them go on to develop psoriatic arthritis. Though there is no cure for the condition, there are treatments and medications that can help alleviate symptoms. Some people may find symptom relief through supplements and dietary changes. Prior to consuming any supplements, talk to your health care provider to ensure they are safe for you to take.
Identification
Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects the skin, commonly manifesting in lesions, scaling, peeling and inflammation. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, there are five types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, pustular, inverse and erythrodermic. The condition typically affects areas like the scalp, elbows, knees and torso, but can occur anywhere on the body. The National Psoriasis Foundation states that psoriasis is typically diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35, but it can develop at any age, with 10 to 15 percent of people diagnosed with the condition diagnosed before the age of 10.
Supplements
Various supplements are linked to reducing symptoms of psoriasis, although they may not work for everyone and results of studies are conflicting. According to Dr. Lawrence Gibson at the Mayo Clinic, fish oil may help reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis, as well as scaling and itching. The omega-3 fatty acids in the fish oil are known to reduce inflammation and may help minimize the body's immune response to T-cells, which trigger an increased production of skin cells and cause the scaly patches associated with psoriasis. A reduced immune response lessens the chance this will occur. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds several more supplements that may be beneficial for psoriasis, including chamomile or gotu kola, which help soothe irritated skin; and cayenne, which helps reduce inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis.
Diet and Psoriasis
There is no one recommended diet for psoriasis, nor will a diet cure psoriasis, but Dr. Gibson says that a healthy diet can help you lose weight or maintain an appropriate, healthy weight, which can help reduce psoriasis symptoms. Dr.Gibson adds that if you were previously overweight, losing weight can help your psoriasis medication work more effectively. According to a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology, vegetarian diets, periods of fasting and fish oil were all shown to have beneficial effects on psoriasis. A diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole-grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats and fish is recommended for optimal health.
Considerations
Prior to taking any supplements, it is best to consult with your health care physician. Though many supplements are described as natural, they may have the possibility of interacting with medications and causing side effects. Some supplements may not be appropriate if you have any other medical conditions. Talking to your health care provider can help reduce the risk of any adverse effects.
References
- National Psoriasis Foundation: Frequently asked questions
- Mayo Clinic: Can fish oil supplements improve psoriasis symptoms?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: German chamomile
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gotu kola
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cayenne
- Mayo Clinic: Can changing my diet treat psoriasis?
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