8 Foods That Might Cause Psoriasis Flare-Ups


Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people all over the globe. It can be identified by the development of red, scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy, painful, and embarrassing. While the exact root cause of psoriasis is unclear, many factors, such as genes, surroundings, and dietary habits, can all play a role in its onset and development. Diet is one of these variables. Some foods have been related to psoriasis flare-ups, while others have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. In this piece, we will look at eight foods that may trigger psoriasis flare-ups and offer advice on managing the condition with dietary changes.

The Eight Foods to Avoid

An anti-inflammatory diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats in general is advised by the National Psoriasis Foundation. Reducing foods that cause inflammation is beneficial for your overall health and may help you control the symptoms of psoriasis.

Here are eight foods and beverages that people frequently mention as potentially causing psoriasis flare-ups.

  • An alcoholic beverage − Autoimmune flare-ups are related to immune system health. Because it disrupts the immune system's different pathways, alcohol is thought to be a psoriasis trigger. If you have psoriasis, you should limit your booze consumption.

  • Gluten is a protein in wheat, barley, and rye. Consuming it may cause an outbreak in some individuals with psoriasis who are gluten intolerant. If you think gluten contributes to your symptoms, consider leaving it out for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve.

  • Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, can contain high saturated fat levels, which has been related to inflammation. In addition, some individuals with psoriasis may be sensitive to casein, a protein found in milk. Try reducing or removing dairy from your diet to see if it makes a difference.

  • Nightshades − such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes, contain solanine, which may trigger irritation in some individuals. Avoid nightshades if you notice that they worsen your psoriasis symptoms.

  • Processed foods, such as packaged munchies, fast food, and frozen dinners, can contain high levels of preservatives, sugar, and unhealthy fats, all contributing to inflammation. To reduce inflammation and support healthy skin, consume a diet of whole, fresh foods.

  • Red flesh contains a lot of saturated fat and can cause inflammation. According to some studies, eating a lot of red meat may increase the risk of getting psoriasis or worsening existing symptoms. Limit your consumption of red meat in favor of leaner protein sources such as fish or poultry.

  • Citrus products like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits can be acidic and cause skin irritation. In addition, some psoriasis patients may be hypersensitive to the substances found in citrus foods. If you notice that citrus fruits worsen your symptoms, try to reduce or avoid your consumption.

  • Spicy foods like peppers and curry can cause redness and sweating, exacerbating psoriasis symptoms. If spicy foods cause a flare-up, consider avoiding them or limiting your intake.

Other Possible Causes

Psoriasis symptoms can be exacerbated by various environmental variables known as triggers.

Among the possible psoriasis causes are −

  • Weather, cold or dry

  • Alcohol, particularly binge drinking

  • Skin damage

  • Strep throat infections, for example.

  • Tobacco use

What Diet Should you Take?

No diet will completely cure psoriasis, but it can help minimize the intensity of its symptoms, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Also, they point out that eating better food may prevent type II diabetes and obesity. They suggest consuming −

  • A heart-healthy diet includes seafood, lean meats, low-fat dairy, whole grains, low-sodium meals, and plant-based lipids.

  • Lean proteins, whole grains, dairy products with minimal or no fat, and various fruits and vegetables should all be a part of a well-balanced diet.

  • Gluten-free diet: Followers of this diet should avoid anything made of wheat.

Conclusion

Dietary adjustments can help many autoimmune illnesses, including psoriasis. Eating many anti-inflammatory foods, including fruits, vegetables, and healthy oils, may be beneficial if you have psoriasis.

Pro-inflammatory foods, including meat, dairy, and processed foods, should also be avoided. These dietary changes may lessen the frequency and severity of your flare-ups.

See a doctor or registered dietitian nutritionist for further details on how your diet can help you manage your illness.

Updated on: 20-Apr-2023

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