Psoriasis is a recurring skin condition in which itchy, scaly red patches form on the elbows, knees, back of the neck, and other areas. Fortunately, certain foods can help! Start a search today to find foods that alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis.
Psoriasis results from an abnormal and rapid growth of cells. If you have psoriasis, making some changes to your diet may help to minimize your flare-ups so that you can enjoy clearer skin and a higher quality of living.
1. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish and fish oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These substances are helpful for the reduction of inflammation. Because of the way in which they work in your body, eating fatty fish a couple of times per week can help to fight off the inflammation that can cause lesions to flare.
2. Probiotics
Probiotics encourage healthy bacteria in your body and are vital for digestive and immune health. They help to detoxify your body and reduce inflammation. Examples of probiotic foods include such things as sauerkraut, kefir, and kimchi.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is a member of the ginger family. Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years and is the key spice that is used to make curries. Turmeric may also be used as a flavoring to add to chicken, fish, pasta, vegetables, and others. Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory properties and may help to fend off psoriatic flare-ups.
4. Lettuce
Lettuce and other leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach are excellent choices for people who suffer from psoriasis. Romaine lettuce is a good source of vitamin B and C. Vitamin B plays a role in regulating your body’s immune response to help reduce inflammation. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to fend off free radicals.
5. Garlic
Garlic has been used for thousands of years to help to treat and prevent many different diseases. Eating garlic every day may help to prevent heart disease and cancer. Garlic is a great choice to add to your diet because it inhibits lipoxygenase, which is an enzyme that plays a role in the inflammatory response that causes psoriatic flare-ups.
6. Caviar
Caviar contains more omega-3 fatty acids than the rest of the fatty fish. When you choose to eat fish eggs from fatty fish such as salmon, you will have the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The anti-inflammatory actions of these fatty acids may help to ward off outbreaks of psoriasis.
7. Carrots
Carrots are rich sources of vitamin A, which helps in the promotion of healthy skin. Other vegetables that are also good sources of vitamin A include squash, mango, and cantaloupe.
8. Broccoli
Broccoli has many health benefits and is a great source of beta-carotene, folate, and vitamin C. These vitamins help to fight inflammation and damage from free radicals. It is best to eat broccoli raw or lightly steamed for the greatest benefits.
9. Chicory Greens
Chicory greens are the leaves from the chicory plant and have a slightly bitter taste. They contain significant amounts of folate, beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. This gives chicory greens the ability to help your body to reduce its inflammatory response and to prevent flare-ups of psoriasis.
10. Sweet Potatoes
Eating sweet potatoes is a great choice for people who have psoriasis. In addition to being great sources of fiber and multiple vitamins, sweet potatoes are unlikely to provoke an allergic response. This is good news for people who have psoriasis because many people who have this condition also have allergies.
11. Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a low-calorie grain that is a viable alternative to wheat because it does not contain gluten. Many people who have psoriasis report that they suffer more flare-ups when they eat foods containing gluten. Buckwheat is also low in calories, which is great if you are watching your diet.
12. Turnip Greens
Turnip greens are members of the same vegetable family as broccoli and are reliable sources of beta-carotene, folate, and vitamin C. Including turnip greens in your diet may help you to fight inflammation and to keep your skin clear.
13. Whole Grains
Whole grains other than wheat are rich sources of antioxidants and fiber. Studies have shown that people who have diets that are high in fiber have lower levels of inflammation and are able to regulate blood sugar more easily. Wheat should be avoided by people with psoriasis because it contains gluten.
14. Beans
Beans are full of fiber and are good sources of protein. Fiber has been linked to improvements in the digestive system and a reduction in the body’s inflammation.
15. Lean Meats
Many people who have psoriasis have reported a link between eating more red meat and experiencing more frequent psoriatic flare-ups. You should try to instead opt for lean meats like poultry, pork, and fish. If you do want to occasionally eat red meat, try to choose lean cuts like sirloin or filet.
16. Avocados
Avocados and some vegetable oils such as olive oil, canola oil, and safflower oil contain polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats. These fats have been shown to reduce inflammation. By contrast, you should avoid saturated foods that are found in animal products and trans fats found in fried foods. These types of fats can cause inflammation and cholesterol problems.