Most of the time, the conditions I talk about on here are to do with the gut- but since finishing my Nutritional Therapy qualification (I’m now offering lots of 1-2-1 nutrition services online so do go have a peek) I’d like to start writing articles about the range of diseases and conditions that I’ve been studying on my nutrition journey. Today is psoriasis– something that runs in my family and something that I know is increasingly common with those who have gut disorders (Don’t believe me? Well check out my blog on how your gut is linked to your skin.) I will share my advice on psoriasis diets and recommend supplements which may help you deal with flare ups.
What Is Psoriasis?
Psorasis is an autoimmune disease in which the cells divide 1000 times greater than normal skin. It causes itchy and painful patches of skin which can be extremely debilitating. Like many autoimmune disorders, it goes through patches of flaring up and being in remission. There’s no one suggested cause of these flare ups-but interestingly it can be linked to gut issues. A study found those with ‘psoriasis had microscopic lesions and greater intestinal permeability’ (Am I the only one fascinated by this?)
How can Psoriasis be treated naturally?
I never advise nutrition replacing medical intervention but if you are dealing with Psoriasis, these things may help with symptoms:
- Supporting your liver– Our liver is responsible for detoxifying the blood (no teatoxes required here!); sometimes it can be overwhelmed and as a result doesn’t do its job as effectively this can impact the gut and worsen psoriasis. You might wish to lower your intake of alcohol or consider using milk thistle if you know you’ve got a particularly busy and alcohol fuelled week coming up! Getting a good night’s sleep can help too- the liver detoxes at 2am each night, so you need to be resting at that time so it can be doing its job!
- Support your gut-these is no mean feat but focus on introducing gut-friendly foods such as bone broth or sauerkraut. These can really help with supporting your gut. You might also want to consider introducing a good quality probiotic.
- Keep a food diary. Identifying which foods make your psoriasis worse might be beneficial- common intolerances tend to be gluten or dairy. You can do this by keeping a food diary or a food intolerance test (I offer this as part of nutrition services but you can find them online too- just make sure you do your research! Groupon deals won’t cut it.) This blog covers more foods to avoid with psoriasis . I also have been following My Goodness for years- a blog by a psoriasis sufferer who posts about juicing and other natural remedies for psoriasis. So that might be another good starting point.
- Up your fatty acids. Many people with skin issues find that they’re deficient in Omega 3- this fatty acid helps with our skin and with inflammation in general. I myself find if I am not taking omega 3, that I suffer with dry, flaky skin. Consider supplementing a good quality of fish oil or hemp seed/flax seed oil if you’re vegan.
- Turmeric. I go on about turmeric all the time, but guess what? It’s thought to help psoriasis too. Have a read of my turmeric protein smoothie to get you started
I hope these tips help somewhat if you’re dealing with psoriasis- I’d also love to know how many of you struggle with gut problems together psoriasis and how the two interact? Do they flare up together or separately? I think this topic is fascinating!
It’s incridible to know abot the power of foods , great article, My sister sufer it and this will be very helpfull, thank you !
This is just what I needed! I’ve tried lots of topical treatments but this seems like something I need to work on from the inside out for sure!!
X lindsay
I do. My original diagnosis was psoriatic arthritis as they flared up together or in quick succession but then it became apparent the arthritis depends on what I eat, wheat being the biggest culprit.
A really nice article covering the advice for helping psoriasis patients. Kudos.
I’ve dealt with Psoriasis for 50 years. I’ve been to countless Dermatologists, tried numerous treatments, from the funny to the ridiculous and nothing worked until now. One week after using dermalmd psoriasis serum, my hands were completely clear. My feet are taking a bit longer, but I’m sure with the results I’m seeing, will be healed soon. Recommended !!
Kudos! Your post is great. I am an unfortunate psoriasis patient and I try to explore all things that might help and support my treatment. You are what you eat – it is true. And all psoriasis patient should pay attention what is on their plate. The biggest challenge is to maintain those healthy habits. I’v read here https://solongpsoriasis.com/ that apple cider vinegar is also good for psoriasis. Maybe you could explore the topic? Best and stay healthy 🙂
I’ve found out how much food effects my eczema and roseaca recently. My husband has psoriasis but doesn’t want to listen to me about what he eats and how it effects him. At least I know I’m finding the tools, information, and food that helps my body. And I keep looking for more.
Good health is everything and the main part is body that we need take most care of it. Balanced belly looks good and keep you fit. Thanks for writing and sharing such a nice piece of information with all of us.
Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosis Criteria