We are aware about lot of treatment methods for Psoriasis, including ointments, oils, creams, steroids, NSAIDs, and even Plasma therapy. But there is always a question about the diet practices suited for psoriasis. Let’s think about the food which are advised and the food which should be avoided for Psoriasis patients.
There is an estimated number of 2 crore psoriasis affected individuals in India. Diet can make a huge impact on their daily life.
We shall discuss about the importance of diet in psoriasis, on the basis of decades of experience in managing Psoriasis at Disha Psoriasis Research center, Kerala, India. Author is the Chief Physician at Disha Psoriasis Hospital.
What is the relationship between Psoriasis and food???
Psoriasis is a “Chronic Auto Immune Disorder”. In simple words – “Our body eats its own tissues”. Rate of production of skin cells are greatly increased, so as their rate of destruction. This causes the formation of plaques in the skin. Normally this process takes place in 30 days, but in individuals with psoriasis the whole process takes place in 6 days.
In some patients, with time these conditions develop into an inflammatory condition called Psoriatic arthritis. In both cases Inflammation is a major factor. Ayurveda has always considered spicy and sour diet as a causative/ triggering factor for psoriasis and arthritis. Modern researches and innumerable studies now prove that diet can be a cause/ trigger for inflammation. In most of the psoriasis cases symptoms can be seen to be worsening by the use of spicy, sour, oily and processed foods.
Foods to be avoided
- Alcohols.
In Ayurveda, Alcohols are considered as “Sour” – Amla Rasa which can vitiate all types of Fire/ Agni/ Pitha which shall trigger psoriasis.
Modern researches say that excessive usage of Alcohols causes the over functioning/ weakening of liver and other major endocrine glands and thus causing all types of diseases including acidity, ulcers, SKIN INFLAMATIONS, ascites etc.
Excessive alcohol usage can cause stress and anxiety which is one of the main causes of Psoriasis.
Alcohols could damage the helpful intestinal flora and thus cause inflammation of the gut and colon, which may further cause digestive disorders and skin eruptions.
- Milk and other dairy products.
Milk contains high amounts of fat, which may cause inflammation in the adipose (fat) tissue.
A milk protein called Casein, which is mostly found in cow’s milk may cause indigestion and digestive tract disorders in some people.
Lactose intolerance could lead to gut inflammations and trigger psoriatic skin eruptions.
- Food that contain processed carbohydrates.
Food items like bread, processed food grains are rich in carbohydrates and the fibre content is very less in them. Increased glycemic index may lead to increased blood sugar levels and subsequent inflammations.
These types of foods may also cause constipation, which is also a triggering factor for Psoriasis.
- Fatty food.
Fat rich foods such as red meat, cheese , fried food and fast food increase the amount of Low Density Lipoproteins in our body. These LDL , also known as bad cholesterol are one of the main factors which trigger inflammation in the body, especially in skin and fatty tissues. Studies also suggest that excess fat in the body has a considerable role in worsening psoriasis.
- Foods rich in added sugar.
Food containing rich carbohydrates such as cola, fruit juices, candy, various Indian sweets which are rich in carbohydrates causes extra carbs to be stored in fat tissues and thus causing inflammation of fat tissues.
These added sugars can also cause the increase in inflammatory proteins called Cytokines, and thus worsen the skin condition in psoriasis.
- Foods that contain gluten.
Research suggests that people with psoriasis tend to have higher rates of celiac disease. In people with celiac disease, gluten (a protein in wheat and some other grains) triggers an autoimmune response that causes the body to attack tissues in the small intestine. People with celiac disease need to avoid gluten completely, though some people without the disease have found that reducing gluten in their diet lessens psoriasis flare-ups.
Foods to Eat if You Have Psoriasis
Just as some foods trigger inflammation, others can help combat inflammation. In general, having a balanced whole-foods diet is the best approach to reduce inflammation throughout the body. It may reduce psoriasis flare-ups or make your symptoms less severe.
The best foods if you have psoriasis include:
- Fish, lean protein or plant-based proteins.
- Fruits and vegetables
- Legumes (beans and lentils)
- Nuts and seeds
- Olive oil
- Small amounts of low-fat dairy
- Whole grains
How can I get started with a psoriasis diet?
If you’re going to change your diet to combat psoriasis, please start slowly. Jumping into a highly restrictive diet isn’t usually sustainable and may deprive you of important nutrients. Instead, start by cutting out some highly processed foods.
Substitute the pastries and cookies with fresh fruit. Opt for herbal tea or water flavored with fresh fruit, mint or cucumber. If you think there’s a specific food or ingredient that’s triggering psoriasis flare-ups, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian. Being overweight or obese can also make psoriasis worse, so you may want to start a weight loss plan that includes fewer calories and smaller portion sizes. Any psoriasis treatment diet should be accompanied by healthy lifestyle choices. Get plenty of sleep and regular exercise, and try to reduce stress in your life. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about a plan to quit.