Foods to Avoid with Psoriasis

Foods to Avoid With Psoriasis

Knowing the foods to avoid with psoriasis can be part of managing a disease that can flare up due to diet and other lifestyle factors. Certain foods, such as red meats or processed snacks, can promote inflammation that can lead to psoriasis symptoms.

Foods to Limit

• Red meat: High in saturated fat and omega-6 fatty acid, which can lead to inflammation.
• Processed foods: Often stripped of nutrients and high in unhealthy fats, salt, and sugar.
• Dairy products: May promote inflammation and trigger symptoms.
• Gluten: Found in wheat, barley, and rye, and can cause inflammation in people with celiac disease.
• Nightshade plants: Belong to the Solanaceae family and may trigger symptoms.

Foods to Eat

• Fatty fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation.
• Leafy greens: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Berries: High in antioxidants and may help reduce inflammation.
• Nuts and seeds: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.
• Fatty oils: Such as olive oil, which is rich in healthy fats.

Other Triggers to Avoid and Ways to Improve Psoriasis

• Avoid cold, dry weather.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Don’t smoke.
• Reduce stress.
• Watch for skin infection.
• Avoid skin injuries and scrapes.
• Avoid medication triggers, such as lithium, prednisone, and hydroxychloroquine.

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can be challenging to manage. Avoiding foods that increase inflammation may help contain symptoms. Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, and fatty fish. Symptom triggers may vary from person to person, so pay attention to which foods may be leading to your symptoms.

A Word From Verywell

You may encounter conflicting advice about what to eat and what not to eat that may worsen your psoriasis symptoms. This is likely to be different for each person. If you think food is a trigger, keep a food and symptom journal to spot your specific triggers. Discuss any major changes to your diet with your healthcare provider. Above all, a balanced diet that provides the nutrients you need for overall good health is essential. A registered dietitian may be a great resource for allaying any fears and steering you to a good eating pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What foods make psoriasis act up?
  Foods that may make psoriasis act up include tomatoes, eggplant, red meat, gluten, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods.
• Is coffee bad for psoriasis?
  Some research suggests caffeine may be a trigger for psoriasis symptoms.
• Is chicken good for psoriasis?
  Chicken is a leaner protein, so it may be better for psoriasis symptoms than red meats.
• Which juice is good for psoriasis?
  In small amounts, most types of juice without added sugar may be OK for psoriasis. However, some people have reported citrus fruits trigger their symptoms, so this type of juice may not be best for everyone.