Psoriasis

 I was recently asked about psoriasis. This condition is believed to be an autoimmune condition. It is characterized by inflamed scaly lesions covered with a silvery-white scale. Pitted fingernails may also be present.

Heavy alcohol consumption is known to increase the incidence of psoriasis. Food allergies can also play a role. Over 10% of those with psoriasis have a strong intolerance to gluten found in wheat, rye, oats and barley. Dealing with other food intolerances will often result in substantial improvement of the condition. This can be done with an elimination diet or actual testing for food intolerances.

Large amounts of animal protein can make psoriasis worse while a vegan diet often results in improvement. This may be due to the fact that most animal products in the United States are loaded with inflammatory fat (arachidonic acid). Leukotriene B4 appears to be involved in the development of psoriasis and this compound is a byproduct of metabolism of arachidonic acid, the inflammatory compound found in animal products when they are fed corn. Fish oils can remove arachidonic acid from cell membranes and numerous trials for 1-4 months have shown that fish oils or increasing dietary intake of fish will often result in significant improvement of psoriasis.

Vitamin D is known to help prevent autoimmune conditions and analogues of the vitamin have been used medically to treat the condition. Testing of blood levels of the vitamin are worthwhile looking at in those with psoriasis. Very little research has been done in this area.

Injections of vitamin B2 have been shown to improve some cases of psoriasis. This vitamin interacts with light which may be a mechanism of why it helps. Ultraviolet light has been used to treat psoriasis.

Chromium and zinc may be important if blood sugar issues are contributing to the condition. If thyroid function is low treating this can result in improvement of psoriasis.

Some have suggested that an overgrowth of fungus in the digestive tract may contribute to the condition. This would explain why psoriasis is often associated with excessive consumption of sugar or alcohol. An anti-Candida diet may be worth a try.

The most important nutrients to look at with psoriasis would be omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. The most important dietary factors would be to avoid sugars and foods high in inflammatory omega-6 fats.

References:

Link to government study on psoriasis and vitamin D.

Case studies on vitamin D and psoriasis.