Diets to Treat Psoriasis

Diets to Treat Psoriasis
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Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease that results in lesions and scaly red patches which become easily inflamed. Certain foods seem to affect increase outbreaks and make them more intense. Following a diet that supports your system may help to reduce the plaques and lessen their occurrence. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends eating a wide variety of fresh foods to ensure you get all necessary nutrients.

Step 1

Eat Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in the form of fish oil, recommends CureZone.com. The healthy nutrients in the fatty acids contribute to helping psoriasis plaques heal. Try flaxseed or flaxseed oil, also right in Omega fatty acids.

Step 2

Consume folic acid in the form of fortified cereals or foods high in folates, such as broccoli. Folic acid supplements may be added as well to ensure you get enough of this important nutrient.

Step 3

Include high-fiber foods such as whole grains and legumes to help the bowel clear toxins from your system, suggests the Living Well With Psoriasis website.

Step 4

Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the system. Water mixed with fresh lemon juice increases the body's ability to remove toxins and cleanse your system.

Step 5

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, suggests the Living Well With Psoriasis website, especially those high in vitamin C. Raw foods retain their nutrients which are then passed on to you when consumed.

Step 6

Reduce consumption of meats and other foods high in purines if you are overweight and have psoriasis. The Living Well With Psoriasis website mentions that those who are overweight seem to have a greater incidence of outbreaks often due to the presence of excess uric acid in the system. Uric acid is the byproduct of purines which are found in proteins such as meats.

Step 7

Limit animal fat consumption which can cause buildups in the liver creating unnecessary toxins which may affect the condition of the skin, explains the Living Well With Psoriasis website.

Tips and Warnings

  • Eat a well rounded diet with emphasis on whole grains, fruits and vegetables. If you find certain foods you are sensitive to, eliminate them and see how you do. You can always add them back into your diet later.
  • The suggestions offered here are for educational purposes and not meant to take the place of medical advice.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish oil supplements
  • Flaxseed oil
  • Folic acid supplements
  • Whole grains
  • Fruits
  • Vegetables

References

Article reviewed by MER Last updated on: Jul 26, 2011

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