Your Diet Could Be Generating Psoriasis Flare-Ups

What we eat and drink affects our bodies in more ways than you might think. Some eating patterns are associated with increased inflammation in the body. Since psoriasis is a skin condition associated with inflammation, creating an anti-inflammatory diet can have substantial benefits in managing symptoms.  

What is an anti-inflammatory diet?

On an anti-inflammatory diet, you avoid foods that trigger inflammation in your body and focus on eating foods that help to reduce your body’s inflammatory responses. 

Foods to Minimize 

• Animal proteins
• Dairy products
• Refined, simple •carbohydrates
• Gluten
• Alcohol
• Saturated fats
• Processed foods containing preservatives and artificial colours or flavourings

Foods to Increase 

• Plant-based proteins, e.g. beans and lentils
• Healthy sources of fat, e.g. olive oil, avocado, seeds, and nuts
• Fresh herbs and spices
• Fresh, wild-caught fish, e.g. salmon, sardines, and anchovies
• Whole grains
• Lots of fruit and vegetables of different colours and types

Other nutrition tips to help your psoriasis…

What are you sensitive to?

It’s important to know if you are allergic or intolerant to any foods as these can aggravate your gut and trigger your immune system, leading to inflammation. Gluten and lactose are common intolerances. See your doctor to find out about testing for food intolerances.

Try an elimination diet

An elimination diet is a way to test for food sensitivities and identify anything that is triggering your psoriasis symptoms. Eliminate certain foods and then reintroduce them one at a time to monitor the effect they have on your body.

Maintain a healthy weight

Fat cells release chemicals called cytokines, which are thought to affect psoriasis symptoms. Lowering body fat percentage and maintaining a healthy weight has been found to help with psoriasis symptoms.

Nutrition is a great supplement to proper treatments of psoriasis, helping you get your symptoms under control.

Did you like this article? If so, check out our blog for more tips on how to prevent skin conditions.