Psorasis & Diet

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects more than 6 million Americans, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It typically affects the skin on your lower back, elbows, knees, groin and scalp. Psoriasis is characterized by raised red patches of skin covered with silvery dead skin cells that resemble scales. It may produce symptoms such as itching, joint pain and skin blistering. Diet cannot cure psoriasis, but it may help reduce the appearance and symptoms of this condition.

Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Although the exact cause of psoriasis is not known, poor immune system function may play a role in psoriasis outbreaks, according to Phyllis Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Vitamin C may help boost immune system function by encouraging the production of white blood cells that destroy bacteria and virus cells. It may also help your body manufacture interferon, a natural antibody. Broccoli, kale, avocados, kiwi, canteloupe, blackberries, oranges, strawberries and spinach are rich sources of vitamin C.

Fish

Add oily fish, such as salmon, cod, tuna, herring and mackerel to your diet. Alternatively, if you do not eat fish, take fish oil supplements. Fish oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are necessary for maintaining skin health. Although current evidence is mixed, fish oil may help relieve skin inflammation and scaling associated with psoriasis.

Whole Grains

Adding whole grain breads and pastas to your diet may help relieve psoriasis symptoms. These foods provide dietary fiber, which may help your body remove toxins from your bloodstream and eliminate them from your body through feces. Cleansing toxins from your bloodstream may reduce skin inflammation and make psoriasis outbreaks less frequent and less severe. Avoid white flour pastas and breads -- these foods are made with refined grains, which may increase inflammation.

Lean Proteins

Opt for lean proteins, such as lean chicken breast, tofu, chickpeas, lentils and black beans, instead of fatty meats such as pork, fried chicken and beef. Red meats and fried, dark-meat chicken are high in saturated fats. A high intake of saturated fats, which your bodily cannot readily use for energy or cellular repair, may play a role in the development of psoriasis and the frequency of psoriasis outbreaks.