Psoriasis is a skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin that can be unsightly and uncomfortable.

While there may not be a cure for psoriasis, many people have found relief by changing their diet.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the skin to produce more skin cells than it needs. This excess skin buildup causes patches to appear on the skin.

Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but it most commonly appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. It can also cause joint pain and inflammation.

How Can Diet Affect Psoriasis?

While diet alone cannot cure psoriasis, it can help manage symptoms. Certain foods can trigger inflammation in the body, which can worsen psoriasis symptoms. Other foods can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin.

By making small changes to your diet, you may be able to reduce the severity of your psoriasis symptoms.

The Psoriasis Diet Plan

Here are some foods to include in your diet if you have psoriasis:.

1. Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that promote healthy skin. Aim to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Some particularly skin-healthy options include:.

Kale
Spinach
Carrots
Sweet potatoes
Mangos
Blueberries

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3s into your diet can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. Good sources of omega-3s include:.

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel
Chia seeds
Flaxseeds
Walnuts
Edamame

3. Fiber

Fiber is important for maintaining healthy digestion, and it can also help reduce inflammation in the body. Good sources of fiber include:.

Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread
Beans and lentils
Fruits and vegetables
Seeds and nuts

4. Probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. They can also help reduce inflammation in the body. Foods that are rich in probiotics include:.

Yogurt
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Kombucha
Miso

5. Water

Staying hydrated is important for maintaining healthy skin. Drinking water can help flush toxins out of the body and keep skin moisturized. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

The Psoriasis Diet Plan: Foods to Avoid

Just as there are foods that can help reduce psoriasis symptoms, there are also foods that can trigger inflammation and make symptoms worse. Here are some foods to avoid if you have psoriasis:.

1. Red Meat

Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can cause inflammation in the body. It can also be difficult to digest, which can exacerbate digestive issues that are common in people with psoriasis.

2. Dairy

Dairy can be a common trigger for psoriasis symptoms. It is also high in saturated fat and can be difficult to digest.

3. Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and preservatives. They can cause inflammation in the body and exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

4. Nightshade Vegetables

Some people with psoriasis find that nightshade vegetables—such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants—can trigger symptoms.

While this is not true for everyone with psoriasis, it may be worth eliminating them from your diet for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve.

Final Thoughts

While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for psoriasis, making small changes to your diet can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation in the body.

By incorporating skin-healthy foods into your diet and avoiding foods that can trigger symptoms, you may be able to find relief from psoriasis symptoms.