Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that quickens the growth cycle of the skin cells. This overgrowth of cells can result in scaly, itchy patches and can cause discomfort. There are different types of psoriasis which may vary depending on the location of the body and their look. Psoriatic scales or patches usually develop on elbows, knees, hands, face or scalp. Genetic and environmental triggers are the causative factors and people with a family history of psoriasis are mostly likely to develop this skin disorder. It may also trigger from autoimmune attack where white blood cells mistakenly damage your skin cells.

Psoriasis flare-ups can also be triggered by bad weather, stress, and certain foods. However, there are some foods that are beneficial and certain diets also help in managing this condition.
Psoriasis Diet

Here’s a list of food that has been reported to trigger flare-ups, but it may vary from person to person.

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Foods To Avoid

Red Meat And Dairy

Red meat, milk and milk products and eggs contain a type of PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acid) called arachidonic acid that has been shown to play a key role in triggering psoriatic lesions. Foods to refrain from include:

  • Red meat and other organ meat products
  • Sausage, and other processed red meats
  • Eggs and egg-based dishes

Also Read: Psoriasis: 5 Effective Home Remedies To Soothe Itchy Skin

Gluten

People with psoriasis have been found to have higher inflammatory markers for gluten sensitivity. Hence those with psoriasis and gluten intolerance should strictly eliminate gluten-rich foods from their meal plan. Gluten-rich foods to avoid include:

  • Wheat and wheat derivatives
  • Rye, barley, and malt
  • Pasta, noodles, and baked products made up of wheat, rye, barley, and malt
  • A few sauces and condiments
  • Beer
  • Malt beverages

Processed Foods

Consuming too many processed and high-calorie foods can lead to obesity, metabolic syndrome and several other chronic conditions. And some of these conditions can result in chronic inflammation in the system that can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Processed foods to avoid include:

  • Processed meats
  • Prepackaged food products
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Processed foods loaded with sugar, salt, and fat

Nightshade Vegetables

One of the most common foods that trigger psoriasis flare-ups is intake of nightshade veggies. These vegetables contain a compound called solanine which has been known to hinder the digestion process and may be the cause of inflammation. Nightshade vegetables to restrict include:

  • Tomatoes
  • Potatoes
  • Eggplants
  • Peppers

Alcohol

Well, autoimmune flare-ups are associated with the healthy functioning of the immune system. And alcohol is thought to trigger psoriasis due to its disruptive effects on several pathways of the immune system. Thus, people with psoriasis should have alcohol very sparingly.

Foods To Add

A psoriasis diet is formulated basically on choosing anti-inflammatory foods that remarkably lessen the severity of a flare-up.                        

Fruits And Vegetables

Most anti-inflammatory diets comprise fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. A diet packed with fruits and vegetables is usually recommended for inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis. Choose from a broad spectrum of fruits and vegetables including:

  • Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts
  • Greens like kale, spinach, and moringa
  • Berries, including blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries
  • Cherries, grapes, and other dark fruits

Fatty Fish

A diet high in fatty fish can offer the system an abundant source of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming omega-3-rich foods has been linked to reduced inflammatory markers and overall inflammation. Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids include

  • Salmon, fresh and canned
  • Sardines
  • Trout
  • Cod

Heart-Healthy Oils

Oils with a higher ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids are known to reduce inflammation and help ease psoriasis symptoms, these include:

Nutritional Supplements

A study revealed that nutritional supplements may greatly help to mitigate inflammation associated with psoriasis. Fish oil, vitamin D, B-12, and selenium have all been researched for their effectiveness in managing psoriasis. These nutrients decreased the frequency and severity of psoriasis flare-ups.

Science-Backed Diets That May Help Manage Psoriasis

Gluten-Free Diet

In individuals who suffer from both psoriasis and gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free diet may offer some improvement in reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

Vegan Diet

A vegan diet is also helpful for people with psoriasis. Being low naturally low in inflammatory foods like red meat and dairy, and high in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables and healthy oils, this diet regimen is greatly valuable.

Always speak with your healthcare provider before following a vegan diet, to avert nutritional deficiency and meet all your nutrients need.

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is famed for its umpteen health incentives including a decreased risk of chronic diseases. The diet mainly pays attention to foods that are heaped with antioxidants and healthy fats. And restrict foods that are pro-inflammatory.

Also Read: Mediterranean Diet: Know Why This Is Not Just Another Food Fad To Follow in 2020

Paleo Diet

The paleo diet advocates having whole foods and refraining from processed ones. As most whole foods are bestowed with anti-inflammatory substances, this diet may be valuable for people with psoriasis.

Autoimmune Protocol Diet

The autoimmune protocol diet (AIP) focuses on excluding foods that may cause inflammation. This diet is very restrictive and mainly includes vegetables and meat, with certain oils and herbs.

As meat is a key part of this diet regimen it may not be suitable for people with psoriasis. Since meat is considered to trigger flare-ups.

Keto Diet

This popular low-carb diet has numerous famed health benefits, such as weight loss and improved nutrient markers. Well, reducing carbohydrates can help reduce processed food intake.

But restricting carbohydrates also means lowering most anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables. It also increases protein from meat. Furthermore, certain keto foods can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, thus keto diet may not be recommended.