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While there is no true ‘psoriasis diet’, nutritious and anti-inflammatory food can be helpful by supporting treatments, reducing flare-ups, and helping skin health in general.
Processed foods and alcohol can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin condition that causes red, scaly patches which can itch, burn, or sting. While genetics and immune dysfunction are at its core, dermatologists today recognise that lifestyle factors, including diet, can influence flare-ups and overall skin health.
There is no “psoriasis diet” in the strict sense, but certain foods can help manage inflammation and complement medical treatment.
The Link Between Diet And Inflammation
Psoriasis occurs when the immune system accelerates the skin cell cycle, leading to thickened plaques. This process is tied to systemic inflammation, which diet can influence. Refined sugar, processed foods, and saturated fats have been shown to heighten inflammatory markers, worsening psoriasis.
On the other hand, nutrient-rich anti-inflammatory foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish may reduce flare-ups. Research has linked the Mediterranean diet, which emphasises these foods, to lower disease severity in psoriasis patients.
Dr. Priyanka Kuri, Consultant – Dermatology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, shares how mindful diet choices can diminish both psoriasis symptoms and flare-ups.
1. Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Sources such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, flaxseeds, and walnuts are anti-inflammatory and may help ease redness and scaling.
2. Add Antioxidant-Rich Foods – Berries, tomatoes, bell peppers, and dark leafy greens are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. These nutrients help reduce oxidative stress and may support skin healing.
3. Maintain A Healthy Weight – Obesity is linked to increased inflammation and worse psoriasis outcomes. A calorie-balanced diet not only improves skin health but also lowers the risk of associated conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.
4. Limit Processed Foods and Sugar – Sugary drinks, fried snacks, and fast foods often contain trans fats and refined sugar, both of which drive inflammation. Swapping these for whole, fresh foods can improve symptom control.
5. Watch Alcohol Intake – Excessive alcohol can worsen flare-ups and interfere with certain psoriasis medications. Moderation is key.
6. Track Personal Food Triggers – Some individuals notice flare-ups after eating specific foods such as red meat, dairy, or gluten. Keeping a food-and-symptom diary can help identify patterns, which dermatologists can guide patients to adjust.
A Holistic Approach To Psoriasis Care
Diet alone cannot cure psoriasis. Effective management typically combines prescribed medications, topical treatments, stress management, exercise, and supportive nutrition. Still, patients who adopt anti-inflammatory eating habits often report improved skin health, reduced flare-ups, and better overall well-being.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all “psoriasis diet,” adopting a whole-food, anti-inflammatory approach can be an important ally in managing the condition. Dermatologists now increasingly recommend nutrition as part of a broader, holistic treatment plan, acknowledging what many patients already know: what you eat shows up on your skin.
- Location :
Delhi, India, India
