Psoriasis & Oils In My Diet

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, over 6 million Americans have psoriasis, which causes raised, reddish-pink patches of dead skin cells on your elbows, knees, scalp, lower back and groin. Your symptoms may come and go episodically and worsen in response to emotional stress. Although research findings are ongoing and mixed, a healthy diet containing particular oils may help manage your symptoms. For best results, discuss dietary changes with your doctor or dietitian.

Theories

Inflammation is a process in which white blood cells in your body work to protect you from harmful substances, such as viruses and bacteria. Certain chronic diseases, however, cause inflammation when no harmful substance is present, causing symptoms such as redness, warmth and swelling. Because psoriasis is an inflammatory disease, researchers believe that foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as essential oils in fish, nuts and seeds, may help manage its symptoms.

Research

Some studies regarding the effectiveness of essential oils, such as fish oil, for treating psoriasis have shown beneficial effects. According to a review of multiple psoriasis-related studies published in the "Journal of Egyptian Women Dermatology Society" in 2010, diets rich in saturated fat sources, such as meat and eggs, have been linked with an increased risk for inflammatory symptoms of psoriasis. People who eat plentiful foods sources of omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, show fewer psoriasis-related risks. Although fish oil supplements have helped reduce psoriasis symptoms in some studies, others have shown no difference between the supplements and a placebo.

Benefits

Whether fish and plant-derived oils provide benefits specific to psoriasis or not, they do provide nutritional benefits. Typical American diets lack omega-3 fatty acids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, which may lead to various deficiency symptoms, including fatigue, poor circulation and dry skin. Omega-3 fatty acids may also help reduce joint pain and stiffness, which affect up to 5 percent of people with psoriasis. Fatty fish, nuts, seeds and oils such as canola oil also provide heart-healthy alternatives to unhealthy fat sources like butter, cheese and fatty meats, which may increase inflammation.

Additional Diet Suggestions

For improved psoriasis symptoms, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends avoiding sugary foods, alcohol and foods high in saturated fat. Some people with psoriasis experience improvements after eliminating gluten, a storage-protein found in wheat, barley and rye, from their diet. Gluten-free grain alternatives include brown rice, wild rice, gluten-free oats and popcorn. Avoiding potential food allergens, such as dairy products, eggs and corn, may also help. Aim for a balanced diet, emphasizing nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, such as beans, lentils and lean poultry, and healthy fats. Particularly rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, herring, halibut, mackerel, walnuts and ground flaxseeds.