Psoriasis

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a dry, scaly skin disorder. Doctors believe that it is genetic and is caused by the immune system being mistakenly "triggered", resulting in skin cells being produced too quickly. Normally, skin cells take about 21-28 days to replace themselves. However, in patients with psoriasis they take around 2-6 days. Psoriasis affects approximately 3% of people globally and usually develops in patients between age 11 and age 45. Despite the fact that it is not a contagious disorder, people with the condition can sometimes suffer from social exclusion and discrimination.

Latest dietary tips

If you have moderate to severe psoriasis, maintaining a healthy weight and cholesterol levels will help reduce symptoms. These tips will also help:

Eat a diet rich in colourful vegetables and fruits.

Choose foods rich in whole grains and fibre.

Have heart-healthy fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel at least twice a week.

Limit your daily fat intake to 30 percent of total calories and choose healthy unsaturated fats such as olive, coconut and rapeseed oil.

Avoid foods with trans fats.

Choose the low-fat or fat-free versions of cheese, milk, yogurt, and other dairy products.

Season foods with herbs and spices rather than salt.

Exercise at a moderate to intense level for at least 30 minutes, three to four times a week.

Nutrition for Psoriasis

There are many other vitamins and herbs that may help with Psoriasis. A small selection can be seen below