Psoriasis & Your Diet – How What You Eat Can Help You Manage Your Psoriasis
Lauren Aycock, FNP-BC • August 22, 2019
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center we see a ton of psoriasis in south Mississippi. Psoriasis is an extremely complex disease that is very difficult to manage on your own. For patients with moderate to severe psoriasis there are not very many over-the-counter options to help you keep your condition under control. If you are suffering from psoriasis, you know all too well that when it comes to the disease there is very little that is truly under your control. Most of the time you find that you are at the mercy of your condition. However, there is good news! There is one thing that you are in complete control of that, if changed, can help you manage your psoriasis – what you eat!
Psoriasis is a chronic auto-immune cutaneous disease associated with inflammation. It is an extremely complex disease with contributing factors such as genetics, smoking, diet, alcohol use, and stress all believed to play a major role in its appearance and severity. Other factors, including increased body mass index and weight gain, have been associated with a higher prevalence of psoriasis and are considered to be additional risk factors for the disease. Patients with psoriasis also are at increased risk for anxiety and depression. Because psoriasis is a chronic disease that is inflammatory many patients seek alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications in order to supplement or augment their doctor’s prescribed treatment. There have been a number of studies recently published that discuss the importance of a healthy diet when dealing with psoriasis. Most of the readily available literature reveals that most diets have mixed impacts on psoriasis, though some individual foods may contribute to better managing the disease. Foods and other dietary supplements that have anti-inflammatory effects seem to have a higher chance of improving psoriasis symptoms. The wonderful part about establishing a healthy diet in order to manage your psoriasis is that it is completely within your control to change!
A survey done in 2017 of over 1,200 patients with psoriasis found that 86% of respondents reported modifying their diets. Additionally, 40% of those respondents reported switching to a specialized diet in order to improve their psoriasis. The three most common diets reported were gluten free, low carb/high protein, and Paleolithic diets. Reductions in consumption of alcohol gluten, nightshades, and junk foods were associated with improvements in 50% of psoriasis patients. The remainder of the blog will discuss a number of specific diets and how they can help patients better manage their psoriasis.
- Gluten- Free: Celiac disease is an inflammatory condition caused by an immune reaction to the protein gliadin, which is often found in foods containing gluten. There are a number of studies that reported an association between having celiac disease and psoriasis. A 2017 study found a 3-fold increased risk of celiac disease for patients with psoriasis. Celiac disease causes malabsorption of nutrients and can lead to a Vitamin D deficiency, which is a known contributing risk factor for psoriasis. There are also hypotheses that both diseases involve common immune cells, or that there may be a shared genetic background between the two diseases. Either way, these commonalities would explain why such a large proportion of psoriasis patients find gluten-free diets help them better manage their psoriasis. Gluten-free diets are a great way to reduce the triggering of inflammatory effects that are experienced in psoriasis flares.
- Mediterranean: this diet is often cited as a great supplement to psoriasis therapies. The Mediterranean diet consists mainly of nuts, fruit, vegetables, legumes, cereals, and olive oils while restricting consumption of red meats, dairy products, and alcohol. On an unrelated note: this diet is associated with a decreased risk of a number of health conditions including cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn disease, and many others. The reason this diet is beneficial for people with a number of health conditions, including psoriasis, is because it contains a high proportion and a wide variety of foods with anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Like we learned earlier in the post, diets that are anti-inflammatory reduce the risk of psoriasis severity. A rather large survey done in 2015 with over 3,500 participants with psoriasis found that respondents who reported lower severity also reported higher adherence to variants of the Mediterranean diet.
- Vegetarian: Both vegetarian and vegan diets have been evaluated in multiple studies on their effects on patients with psoriasis. A relatively recent study observed improvements in psoriasis patients that switched their diets to vegetarian. These diets have been shown to be associated with higher ratios of anti-inflammatory foods than omnivorous diets. The assumption is that the largely anti-inflammatory consumption in the diet is why people suffering from psoriasis would benefit from switching to a vegetarian diet. Vegetarian diets also tend to contain vast quantities of potassium, which is used in the body to synthesis cortisol, which is commonly used to treat psoriasis. Both hypotheses explain why vegetarian diets help better manage psoriasis, although further studies should be done to compare vegetarian diet results to the other commonly suggested ones.
- Ketogenic: Obesity and weight gain are known factors associated with psoriasis, and because of this some psoriasis patients will turn to diets that restrict calories with the goal of losing weight. There was a study in 2015 that studied a patient who restored her response to systemic therapy following an intensive 4-week ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet is a high fat, adequate protein, low carb diet. As is the common trend among the various diets listed in this blog, the ketogenic diet has shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. While the 2015 case study is intriguing, there need to be more large-population studies to determine if the diet has a significant association with psoriasis improvement. The studies that have been published have either been case studies, or studies that did not a have enough participants to be truly statistically significant.
- Complete dietary shifts are not always feasible for patients. In this case, many psoriasis patients turn to dietary supplements as an alternative method to lifestyle change that will improve their condition. Two of the prominent nutritional additives that are easy to implement are fish oils and vitamin D. Vitamin D plays an important role in regulating calcium and magnesium as well as maturation of keratinocytes in the skin. This is why topical vitamin D analogues are common treatments for psoriasis. There are many psoriasis patients who are found to have vitamin D deficiencies that contribute to their flare ups. Another supplement that can be added is polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fish oil. There are a number of trials that show improvements in psoriasis severity. Both of these supplements can be added with relative ease to a person’s diet to help them manage their condition.
Dietary modifications have a complex effect on psoriasis. A dietary change will not make your psoriasis disappear, and how effective the dietary change depends on the variations of psoriasis and the overall lifestyle of the patient. Lifestyle habits that influence the efficacy of dietary changes’ help with managing psoriasis include level of exercise, activities such as smoking and drinking, obesity, and genetic susceptibilities to other conditions or comorbidities. However, literature appears to illustrate that certain foods and nutritional supplements can be modified from all diets for general improvement of the condition. If you have psoriasis, for the most optimal management of the condition, you should still seek counsel from one of our very experienced providers at Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , we understand that selecting the right skincare products can be challenging. While many over-the-counter (OTC) options promise results, not all skin concerns can be addressed with these products. Knowing the difference between OTC and prescription treatments helps you make educated decisions and recognize when to seek professional care. If you are treating acne, eczema, rosacea, or signs of aging, upgrading your treatment plan at the right time can improve your skin health and confidence. Understanding Over-the-Counter Skin Treatments Over-the-counter skincare products are available without a prescription and are intended for mild to moderate skin concerns. When used consistently, many contain ingredients that help maintain healthy skin. Common OTC ingredients include: Salicylic acid for acne Benzoyl peroxide to reduce acne-causing bacteria Retinol for fine lines and uneven texture Hydrocortisone cream for minor itching and irritation Moisturizers with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to heal the skin barrier These products are a good starting point for mild conditions. However, because OTC treatments use lower-strength active ingredients, they may not be effective for chronic or serious skin issues. When Prescription Skin Treatments May Be Necessary Prescription treatments use stronger active ingredients and are customized to your specific skin condition. A dermatologist can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend medications that address the problem more effectively than OTC products. Prescription treatments may include: Oral medications for moderate to severe acne Prescription-strength retinoids Medications to manage eczema or psoriasis Treatments for rosacea and chronic redne Prescription creams for hyperpigmentation or melasma Antifungal or antibacterial medications for skin infections These therapies are chosen based on your medical history, skin type, and treatment goals to maximize results and minimize side effects. Time to Upgrade Your Treatment While many start with OTC products, some situations require a dermatology appointment. Consider seeing a dermatologist if: Your skin condition has not improved after several weeks of steady OTC treatment. Acne is causing painful cysts, nodules, or permanent scarring. Rashes, redness, or irritation continue to worsen. You experience frequent flare-ups of eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. You notice new or changing skin growths or unusual spots. Your skin concern is affecting your confidence or quality of life. Early treatment has the potential to prevent conditions from getting worse and minimize the chances of long-term skin damage. Why Professional Assessment Matters Many skin conditions look similar, making self-diagnosis challenging. For example, stubborn acne may be rosacea, and chronic dry patches could indicate eczema, psoriasis, or another condition. A board-certified dermatologist can accurately diagnose your skin concern and develop a customized treatment plan. Professional guidance also helps you avoid spending time and money on ineffective products. Healthy Skin Starts with the Right Treatment Over-the-counter products are important for daily skincare, but they may not treat complex or persistent concerns. Transitioning to prescription treatment at the right time can greatly improve your skin’s appearance and long-term health. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , our team offers complete evaluations and customized treatment plans for acne, eczema, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, skin cancer screenings, and other skin conditions. If your current skincare routine is not resulting in success, we are here to help you achieve healthier, more confident skin.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we believe education is key to protecting and maintaining healthy skin. July is significant for skin health, featuring both UV Safety Awareness Month and World Skin Health Day on July 8 . These occasions highlight the importance of sun protection and raise awareness of common concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and melasma . Understanding how ultraviolet (UV) exposure affects your skin helps prevent long-term damage and supports a healthier, more even complexion. Why UV Protection Matters The sun emits ultraviolet rays that can damage skin even on cloudy days. While many associate UV exposure with sunburn, its effects are broader. Repeated UV exposure accelerates skin aging, increases skin cancer risk, and contributes to pigmentation disorders. Common effects of excessive UV exposure include: • Sunburn and skin irritation • Premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles • Dark spots and uneven skin tone • Increased risk of skin cancer • Worsening of hyperpigmentation and melasma Daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin and reduce preventable damage. What Is Hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation is a common condition where areas of skin become darker than the surrounding tissue due to excess melanin production. Multiple factors can contribute to hyperpigmentation, including: • Sun exposure • Acne scars and inflammation • Hormonal changes • Skin injuries or irritation • Certain medications While hyperpigmentation is mostly harmless, many seek treatment to improve skin tone as well as restore confidence. Understanding Melasma Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that shows up as brown or gray-brown patches, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. Melasma is frequently associated with: • Hormone changes during pregnancy • Birth control medications • Hormone replacement therapy • Genetic predisposition • Sun exposure Although melasma is not dangerous, it can be difficult to treat because UV exposure frequently triggers or worsens it. Even minimal sun exposure can increase pigment production and make discoloration more noticeable. Protecting Your Skin from UV Damage Whether you are concerned about skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, or melasma, daily sun protection is essential. Dermatologists suggest: • Using sun lotion with SPF 30 or higher every day • Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors • Wearing wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing • Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours • Wearing UV-protective sunglasses • Avoiding tanning beds Consistent sun protection helps prevent new pigmentation issues. World Skin Health Day: A Reminder to Prioritize Skin Care Observed annually on July 8, World Skin Health Day encourages preventive steps to maintain healthy skin. This is a reminder to perform regular self-exams, schedule dermatology visits, and address concerns early. If you notice persistent dark spots, changes in pigmentation, or new skin lesions, seek an expert assessment to determine the cause and identify treatment options. Supporting Healthy Skin Year-Round UV Safety Awareness Month and World Skin Health Day remind us that protecting your skin is an investment in long-term health. Practicing sun safety and understanding conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma help preserve your skin’s health, appearance, and function. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our team provides personalized evaluations and treatments for pigmentation concerns, sun-damaged skin, and overall skin health. Plan a visit and learn how we can help you achieve healthier, more confident skin.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we understand that your skin’s needs change with the seasons. What works during the cold, dry winter months may not...
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we believe your nails are more than a cosmetic feature—they give valuable insight into...
When a ‘Rash’ Might Be Something More Serious At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we recognize that rashes are common and frequently resolve quickly with minimal treatment. However, some rashes may signify underlying conditions that require prompt medical attention. Identifying when a rash is more than a minor irritation is key to protecting your health. Comprehending Common vs. Concerning Rashes Most everyday rashes result from irritants, allergies, heat, or minor infections and typically improve within a few days with over-the-counter treatments. However, if a rash lasts longer, worsens, or appears with other symptoms, it may signal a more serious issue. Identifying the difference between a routine rash and one that requires medical evaluation helps avoid complications and ensure appropriate care. Warning Signs to Watch For Certain features may indicate a rash requires clinical assessment, including: Rapidly spreading or worsening rash Severe pain, swelling, or blistering Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or red streaks Fever or flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash A rash that does not improve after several days of treatment Dark, purple, or bruised-looking areas on the skin For example, a rash with fever may indicate a viral or bacterial infection, whereas painful blistering can suggest conditions such as shingles. In rare cases, rashes may signal autoimmune disorders or severe allergic reactions. Rashes That May Point to Underlying Conditions Some rashes may be linked to broader health concerns, including conditions that cause inflammation in the skin and other organs: Allergic reactions that may escalate into further severe responses Infections that spread beyond the skin if untreated Medication reactions that require immediate adjustment Persistent or unusual skin changes may be early signs of skin cancer or precancerous conditions, especially if they do not heal or continue to change over time. Why Early Evaluation Matters Delaying care for a worrisome rash may allow the underlying condition to progress. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent discomfort and complications. A dermatology specialist can assess the rash’s appearance, location, and progression, and may recommend diagnostic tests if needed. This approach assures treatment addresses the underlying cause, not just the visible symptoms. When to See a Dermatology Specialist If you are unsure about your rash, it is best to err on the side of caution. Consider seeking care if: The rash is persistent, painful, or unusual in appearance Over-the-counter treatments are not effective You experience additional symptoms such as fever or fatigue The rash interferes with your daily comfort or quality of life At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our experienced providers supply comprehensive skin evaluations and customized treatment plans. We take time to understand your symptoms and deliver clear, effective solutions tailored to your needs. Protecting Your Skin and Your Health While many rashes are minor, some may be early warning signs of more serious health concerns. Monitoring skin changes and pursuing prompt medical advice can produce a notable effect. If you notice a rash that does not seem right, do not ignore it. Schedule a consultation with Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center for expert evaluation and peace of mind. Your skin is an important indicator of your overall health, and taking it seriously supports ongoing well-being.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we know that healthy skin is affected by more than just external care—it’s related to your overall health...
Here’s how UV light therapy works, why it is useful for scalp psoriasis during winter, what to expect from treatment, and how to use it safely.
A truly effective skincare routine should be tailored to your needs, protect your natural barrier, and target concerns with proven ingredients.
The cold, dry air outside combined with indoor heating can strip away your skin’s natural moisture, leaving it tight, flaky, and more vulnerable to irritation.
At Pine Belt Dermatology, we understand how winter weather affects your skin and how frustrating it can be to deal with the discomfort that comes with it.