Diet Management for Psoriasis: Facts Over Fiction

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterised by red, itchy and scaly patches that can appear anywhere on the body. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly speeds up the skin cell growth process, leading to the rapid buildup of cells on the surface. This results in the formation of thick scales and can also be associated with joint pain. 

While there’s no cure, management strategies often include topical OTC psoriasis creams, medications, light therapy, and lifestyle changes, with an increasing focus on diet. Research suggests there’s a link between diet and psoriasis severity, mainly through inflammation — a key player in psoriasis flare-ups. Certain diets may increase your body’s inflammation, which can influence psoriasis symptoms.

Read on to learn about the role of diet in managing psoriasis, guided by scientific evidence and expert advice.

The anti-inflammatory diet for psoriasis

If you have psoriasis, you’ve probably heard of an anti-inflammatory diet. This involves eating food rich in anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats (e.g., olive oil, nuts, fatty fish). The nutrients in this food work to actively reduce skin inflammation and redness and may offer a natural remedy to the persistent challenges of psoriasis. The Mediterranean diet, abundant in these foods, has also been associated with reduced psoriasis severity.

Gluten sensitivity and psoriasis

Research suggests a potential link between psoriasis and gluten sensitivity or celiac disease and as a result, addressing this gut problem may help in managing your psoriasis. There are many gluten-free substitutes available on the market these days to ease the transition. Just make sure you consult your doctor before making any significant dietary changes as their guidance will ensure a tailored approach that works for you.

Food allergies and psoriasis

While psoriasis is primarily driven by an immune response that accelerates skin cell growth, there is growing evidence to suggest that food allergies, or food sensitivities, might influence psoriasis flare-ups in some individuals. This connection is thought to be a result of the immune system’s response to certain foods, leading to inflammation that can make your psoriasis symptoms worse. Identifying and removing sensitive foods from your diet may help manage the severity and frequency of your psoriasis symptoms.

Fiction: Diet as a solo treatment for psoriasis

Diet alone cannot be the sole treatment for psoriasis. Unfortunately, there is no specific dietary cure for psoriasis and no one-size-fits-all approach that can instantly cure psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a multifaceted autoimmune condition and its management requires a holistic approach. While diet plays a key role, it’s essential to recognise that various factors contribute to the chronic skin condition. 

Practical Tips for Implementing Dietary Changes

• Start Small: Gradually incorporate anti-inflammatory foods into your diet or take away gluten from it. 
• Symptom Tracking: Keep a diary to monitor how dietary changes affect your symptoms.
• Seek Balance: Ensure your diet is varied and includes all major food groups.
• Professional Guidance: Work with a dietitian to tailor dietary changes to your needs.

Explore Dermal Therapy’s psoriasis range 

Here at Dermal Therapy we have an entire range to help you manage psoriasis including itch, dryness and scales on the face, body or scalp. And the best part is it’s all available at your local pharmacy without a prescription.

• Anti-Itch Soothing Lotion and Anti-Itch Cream – Constant scratching can be exhausting. Our anti-itch solutions combine an innovative trio of ingredients to soothe, cool and reduce itchiness. Ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, Canadian willowherb and menthol, all work harmoniously to stop itching quickly and effectively. 
• Very Dry Skin Lotion and Cream -Our Very Dry Skin range provides extremely dry skin with the extra nourishment with visible results in as soon as 1 day.
• Very Dry Skin Wash – Feel fresh with our kind and cleansing Very Dry Skin wash. Designed to specifically prevent any harsh surfactants from stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier leaving your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.
• Scalp Relief Serum – New Zealand’s first leave-on scalp serum designed to moisturise and soothe dry, irritated scalp.
• Scalp Relief Shampoo and Conditioner– Say goodbye to dandruff and irritation while you gently clean and hydrate your scalp with our 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner for itchy, dry and flaky scalp.

While diet alone cannot cure psoriasis, it can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. By separating fact from fiction and consulting with healthcare professionals, you can make informed dietary choices to support your psoriasis treatment plan.