If you suffer from psoriasis, you know that it can be a difficult condition to manage. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, resulting in scaly patches on the skin.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are many ways to manage its symptoms, including through diet. Certain foods can trigger inflammation and worsen psoriasis symptoms. Here are seven foods that may aggravate your psoriasis and what to eat instead.

1. Red Meat

Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can trigger inflammation in the body. This can worsen psoriasis symptoms, as inflammation is a hallmark of the condition.

Additionally, red meat can contain arachidonic acid, which is a type of fatty acid that can also lead to inflammation. Try incorporating lean proteins, like chicken and fish, into your diet instead.

2. Dairy

Many people with psoriasis find that dairy products, like milk, cheese, and yogurt, worsen their symptoms. This may be due to the casein protein found in dairy, which can trigger inflammation.

If you find that dairy aggravates your psoriasis, try switching to dairy-free alternatives like almond or coconut milk. You can also get calcium from other sources, like leafy greens and calcium-fortified foods.

3. Nightshade Vegetables

Nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, contain a chemical called solanine, which can trigger inflammation in some people.

While more research is needed to conclusively link nightshade vegetables with psoriasis, many people with the condition find that avoiding these foods can help to soothe their symptoms. If you’re not sure if nightshades are affecting your psoriasis, try eliminating them from your diet for a few weeks and see if you notice any improvement.

4. Processed Foods

Processed foods, like candy, chips, and fast food, are high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats. These foods can trigger inflammation in the body and worsen psoriasis symptoms.

Additionally, processed foods are often low in important nutrients that can help to soothe psoriasis, like vitamins A and D. Instead of reaching for junk food, try snacking on fresh fruits and vegetables or making your own healthy snacks at home.

5. Gluten

While not all people with psoriasis are sensitive to gluten, some find that eliminating it from their diet can help to improve their symptoms. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and can be found in many processed foods.

If you think gluten may be worsening your psoriasis, try eliminating it from your diet for a few weeks and see if you notice any improvement. Gluten-free alternatives, like quinoa and brown rice, are available at most grocery stores.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol can trigger inflammation in the body and worsen psoriasis symptoms. Additionally, many people with psoriasis find that alcohol makes their skin itchier and more uncomfortable.

If you enjoy drinking alcohol, try limiting yourself to one drink per day or eliminating it from your diet entirely. You can also try switching to non-alcoholic alternatives, like sparkling water or kombucha.

7. Citrus Fruits

While fruits are generally healthy and nutritious, some people with psoriasis find that citrus fruits, like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, can trigger inflammation.

This may be due to the histamine content of these fruits, which can be irritating to people with sensitive skin. If you find that citrus fruits worsen your psoriasis symptoms, try incorporating other types of fruit into your diet, like berries or kiwi.

Conclusion

While diet is not a cure for psoriasis, it can help to manage its symptoms.

By avoiding trigger foods like red meat, dairy, and processed foods, and incorporating healthy alternatives like lean proteins, leafy greens, and fresh fruits, you can help to soothe your psoriasis and improve your overall health.