Nutritional Approach to Psoriasis: Anti-Inflammatory Principles

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Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated systemic inflammatory disorder characterized by hyperproliferation of keratinocytes. While clinical dermatology provides primary medical treatment, an evidence-based anti-inflammatory dietary protocol substantially diminishes cutaneous erythema, reduces pruritus, and prolongs clinical remission.

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Psoriatic Pathomechanism and Systemic Inflammation

The pathophysiology of psoriasis is driven by the IL-23/IL-17 cytokine signaling axis, generating inflammatory cascades across the dermis, vasculature, and joints (psoriatic arthritis). High intakes of saturated fats and refined sugars exacerbate this cascade, establishing dietary modulation as an integral adjunct therapy.

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Crucial Nutrients: Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Vitamin D, and Polyphenols

Long-chain EPA and DHA from cold-water oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) directly compete with arachidonic acid, suppressing the generation of pro-inflammatory leukotriene B4. Maintaining optimal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and consuming dietary polyphenols from extra virgin olive oil are equally crucial.

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Dietary Triggers: Alcohol, Trans Fats, and Ultra-Processed Foods

Alcohol represents one of the most potent clinical triggers for psoriatic flares, escalating histamine release and impairing intestinal barrier integrity. Artificial trans fats, deep-fried foods, and excessive red meat should be strictly curtailed in favor of lean poultry and plant proteins.

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The Role of Healthy Body Weight and Gut Microbiome Diversity

In overweight individuals with psoriasis, losing just 5-10% of total body weight substantially augments the therapeutic responsiveness to topical and biologic treatments. Nurturing gut microbiome diversity with fermented foods, kefir, and prebiotic fiber bolsters systemic immune homeostasis.

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Among them are:

– pharmacotherapy, which involves external treatment that reduces the skin shell and limits its formation, leading to the treatment of local symptoms. In cases of severe skin shell, general treatment is administered through immunosuppression; – phototherapy; – photochemotherapy; – photopheresis; – other methods such as biological treatment, balneotherapy, psychotherapy; – appropriate diet and lifestyle.

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Is there truly a matter that necessitates an adjustment in your lifestyle?

Patients can instantly experience significant relief in their disease symptoms by means of a lifestyle modification.

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It is of utmost importance to:

– to quit smoking – nicotine will result in an increase in the release of interleukin-1, which ultimately aids the inflammatory reaction; – to lessen alcohol intake – alcohol stimulates histamine release, which consequently worsens the state of inflammation. Furthermore, dandruff in individuals who misuse alcohol is more resistant to treatment and its course is often more severe; – to lower stress levels – appropriate relaxation techniques, stress management, such as through sports or potential psychotherapy, can effectively alleviate skin changes; – to ensure wearing clothes made of gentle, natural materials to avoid skin irritation; – not to focus excessively on body hygiene and to avoid using harsh, chemical cosmetics that may irritate the skin; – to ensure obtaining an adequate amount of sleep.

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What should the diet look like for people with psoriasis to reduce symptoms?

Research conducted in Croatia suggests that a low energy diet may reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. These results are associated with a decrease in CD+ lymphocyte activity and an increase in the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines resulting from the use of a low energy diet. However, excessive food intake can lead to weight gain, which in turn increases the risk of psoriasis symptoms. Therefore, it may be advisable to limit the amount of food consumed from time to time. In addition, studies have shown that a BMI of more than 30 doubles the risk of psoriasis symptoms compared to individuals with normal body weight. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain a diet with a slight caloric deficit compared to the requirement and maintain normal body weight. Such therapeutic measures support other forms of treatment and can lead to improvement in skin condition.

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