Psoriasis: can we reduce flare-ups through diet?

2% of the population is affected by psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly manifests itself as discolored scales, plaques or raised rashes on the skin. This dermatosis is multifactorial: several associated environmental and genetic factors trigger it. Often benign, it still presents severe forms in 20% of cases, with extensive skin lesions and/or other damage, particularly joint damage. While several treatments now reduce symptoms in a majority of patients, diet is also a way to improve quality of life. Explanations with dermatologist Dr. Anthony Fernandez who published an article in the Cleveland Clinic Health Magazine.

Psoriasis: where do these patches on the skin come from?

These plaques, which are usually painful and itchy, occur because of an overactive inflammatory response: the immune system targets its own healthy skin cells, creating a cycle of inflammation and swelling, leading to an overproduction of skin cells and a buildup of scales. In severe cases, people can develop psoriatic arthritis or joint inflammation.

Although no food by itself can trigger psoriasis, certain foods are likely to cause inflammation.

Foods to Avoid When Suffering from Psoriasis

Processed meats, high-sugar desserts, foods high in saturated and trans fats, ultra-processed foods, alcohol, and soda can all cause general inflammation and irritation in the body. Eating too much of these foods can also increase your overall body fat. And many studies have shown that this increase in fat can lead to longer-term inflammation, increasing your risk of developing psoriasis. But as Dr. Fernandez points out, there is no solid scientific evidence yet that specific foods cause psoriasis flare-ups in patients.Strategies such as eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all keys to minimizing the risk of flare-ups.“, he explains. While some individuals improve their condition through diet, it is necessary to “consider this as an exception”, and certainly not as something that everyone should do.People with moderate to severe psoriasis are likely to still need medication.”, he adds.

The dermatologist recommends that his patients keep a food diary and take notes on how they feel when they eat certain foods or, on the contrary, when they avoid them. This information can indeed be useful to the doctor, in order to establish an appropriate nutritional regime.Everyone is unique and may have a unique trigger for their illness.”

Psoriasis: what foods should you eat?

If you’re looking to combat the inflammation that triggers psoriasis, the doctor advises focusing on a healthy, balanced diet, consisting mainly of:

-fruits and vegetables rich in fiber: leafy vegetables, blueberries, carrots, pears, etc.;

-high quality proteins: red beans, lentils, chickpeas, Greek yogurt, eggs, etc.;

-healthy fats found in foods like avocados, extra virgin olive oil and nuts;

-omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as wild salmon, herring or tuna and flaxseed oil.

You can also go heavy on the turmeric, a spice well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. And if you’re looking for a “model” diet to follow, the doctor recommends the Mediterranean diet, which is well-known for its many health benefits. “The Mediterranean diet is the one that most people recommend when they’re talking about how to change your diet to improve your psoriasis,” he says. “It involves foods that have anti-inflammatory properties. They’re low in fat. They’re low in calories. And most of them are natural.”