Psoriasis is a skin condition that affects millions of people. It can be unbearable for some and not much of a problem for others. But, anyone who suffers from this condition likely wants to know how their diet affects psoriasis flare ups. Today, we will discuss the best and worst foods for psoriasis so you can plan your diet accordingly.
Best Foods for Psoriasis
Seafood
One food group you should add to your diet immediately is seafood. Seafood is high in Omega-3 fatty acids. This is found in tuna, salmon, sardines, and mackerel. A person’s immune system is believed to be overactive when they have psoriasis, and Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation and aid the immune system. Psoriasis has been linked to having a higher risk of heart attack, which means it’s a good idea to eat fish as often as you can.
Avocados and Nuts
Who doesn’t love a handful of blueberries in their oatmeal, cereal, or simply in a bowl for a snack? Well, if you love to eat blueberries and have psoriasis, you are already on the right track when dealing with your skin condition. The biggest reason blueberries help with psoriasis is that they act as an anti-inflammatory. You can also eat figs, strawberries, and mangoes to help with your psoriasis as they are in the same category of food as blueberries.
Blueberries
If you like avocados and nuts and have psoriasis, then you will be pleased to find out that these two food items are good for your skin condition. Avocados and nuts are good for you in moderation, both health-wise and when it comes to managing your psoriasis. These two foods are in the polyunsaturated fat group that also includes vegetable oils.
Worst Foods for Psoriasis
Dairy
It hasn’t been proven by scientists or doctors that dairy is bad for psoriasis, but many patients with the skin condition have reported that their condition improved as they cut back on their dairy intake. If you do decide to limit the amount of dairy you consume, make sure to supplement your diet with calcium and calcium rich foods.
Gluten
Gluten is another bad food to have when you are dealing with psoriasis. If you have an intolerance to gluten, which can be determined via testing by your physician, it’s best to cut it out of your diet as much as possible. The intolerance might not bother you in any form except for your psoriasis.
Fried Foods
Eating fried foods on a regular basis has been known to cause inflammation throughout the body, including inflammation that can wreak havoc on your psoriasis.
Alcohol
Alcohol is another bad item to intake when dealing with psoriasis. It not only has the ability to cause interference with your medications, but it can also cause inflammation in your body that can lead to flare ups of your psoriasis.
Tomatoes
There is no scientific link between tomatoes and psoriasis, but patients with the skin condition have reported increased flare ups when tomatoes are in their diet.
Windsor Dermatology, located in East Windsor, can answer all of your questions regarding psoriasis treatment and care. Call the office today at (609) 443-4500 to speak with a member of their experienced staff or to schedule an appointment.
