Live Life Team
For those people who suffer from psoriasis, it can sometimes feel as though the condition is controlling their lives. But one way to regain control is to stick to a psoriasis diet. While diet cannot cure psoriasis, and scientists remain divided on what role it plays in the condition, many psoriasis sufferers testify to the improvements associated with a psoriasis diet.
By eating healthily and avoiding certain foods, psoriasis patients are also often able to reduce their weight, and as excess weight is believed to play a role in triggering psoriasis flare-ups, any weight reduction can have an indirect positive impact on the condition.
One of the most important components of a psoriasis diet is to cut out saturated fats, trans fats, refined sugar and processed foods, while also limiting salt and cholesterol. These dietary rules are also a key part of the diets prescribed for patients suffering from heart disease, which is not surprising. Both heart disease and psoriasis are inflammatory conditions, and reducing inflammation and improving heart health can be beneficial for both.
Among the foods to avoid for psoriasis patients are red meat and high fat dairy. Lean and skinless meats are the best option and all meats and vegetables should be cooked through boiling or using oils that are free from saturated fat or trans fats. Excessive salt should also be avoided, and since fast food and processed foods generally contain both large amounts of salt and the wrong type of fat, these should also be avoided.
Limiting your alcohol intake or even cutting it out altogether is also good advice for psoriasis sufferers. For those with severe psoriasis, steering clear of alcohol is advised, as it is believed to be a potential trigger for the condition. If you do have a drink, it is advisable to limit yourself to no more than one or two per day.
Finally, many psoriasis sufferers opt for a gluten-free diet. Gluten has not been proven to be a trigger factor for psoriasis but it is known that as many as a quarter of psoriasis sufferers are sensitive to gluten. By going gluten-free, some patients have found their symptoms ease, although as with any significant diet change, you should consult your doctor before you start.
