Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation to the skin. Sufferers of psoriasis often have raised, red, flaky skin patches on the body or scalp. While psoriasis may be caused by a genetic predisposition, lifestyle can also cause and exacerbate symptoms. In addition to infection, environment and stress, diet may also contribute to the severity of psoriasis. Eating or avoiding certain foods may alleviate the symptoms.
Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In "Food: Your Miracle Medicine," Jean Carper says fish oils equivalent to a 5-oz. portion of fatty fish daily reduces inflammation, itching and redness in psoriasis patients. Fatty fish is a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory properties. To boost omega-3's effects, steer clear of animal fats and pro-inflammatory vegetable fats, margarines and shortenings.
The 1,400 Calorie Healing Diet for Psoriasis
Registered dietitian Dierdre Earls developed a 1,400-calorie healing diet for psoriasis. The diet is composed lots of fruits and vegetables that have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. The diet is gluten-free and very low in lactose. In addition, there is little animal protein in the diet, providing only 2 oz. to 3 oz. per day of chicken or fatty fish. Most proteins are in plant form, with servings of nuts and beans daily.
Anti-Inflammation
Consuming only 1,400 calories per day is restrictive, so would promote weight loss for psoriasis patients who follow the diet. A study published in the "British Journal of Dermatology" found that predominantly vegetarian diets are also low in arachidonic acid, a chemical that gets built up in psoriasis plaque. A reduction of arachidonic acid alleviates inflammation and itching. Also avoid alcohol, which can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms by stimulating the production of histamine, the compound that aggravates itching.
Gluten
The study in the "British Journal of Dermatology" also found a correlation between gluten sensitivity and psoriasis. Gluten is the protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, malt, oats and rye. While not all patients saw marked improvement after omitting gluten from their diet, those who did have a gluten sensitivity had fewer psoriasis symptoms.
References
- "Food: Your Miracle Medicine, Preventing and Curing Common Health Problems the Natural Way"; Jean Carper; 1993
- Psoriasis Meal Plan
- "British Journal of Dermatology"; Diet and Psoriasis: experimental data and clinical evidence; Malke Wolters; March 2005
