Eating Well with Psoriasis

Diet plays a key role in your overall wellbeing and following a varied, balanced diet is essential for good health. It’s important to remember that although psoriasis is not caused by any specific food, there is a link between diet and psoriasis.

Psoriasis is an immune mediated inflammatory disease (IMID). Many foods are known to cause inflammation throughout the body. Therefore, for some people, eating typically inflammatory foods can make the symptoms of psoriasis worse.

A diet which is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein contributes to overall good health and wellbeing.

You may wish to add the following foods to your diet:

• Fish, lean protein or plant-based proteins
  
• Fruits and vegetables
• Legumes (beans and lentils)
• Nuts and seeds
• Olive oil
• Small amounts of low-fat dairy
• Whole grains

On the other hand, you may wish to reduce consumption of the following foods:

• 
  Processed foods: including sweets, cakes, biscuits, breakfast cereals, ready meals, savoury snacks and processed meats.
• Foods with added sugar: including fizzy drinks, fruit juices, desserts, condiments and sauces.
• Foods with added salt: including crisps, chips, breads, crackers, meats, fast-food.
• Alcohol: Consuming alcohol requires your body to produce chemicals to metabolise the alcohol, which can lead to long-term inflammation if you drink heavily or regularly. Alcohol can also cause inflammation in your gut.

There is no specific diet which either causes or ‘cures’ psoriasis. You should not eliminate any food groups from your diet. Each food group contains important nutrients that help your body function and stay healthy. The best way to get all the vitamins and minerals you need is from your diet and the food you eat.

Leading a healthy lifestyle

Making small changes, to lead a healthier lifestyle may also reduce symptoms of psoriasis.

• Sleeping well: Getting plenty of good-quality sleep every night.
• Physical activity: Exercising regularly, consider anything from low-impact seated activities to high intensity cardio sessions. Remembering to choose an exercise routine which is suited to your abilities and that you enjoy.
• Mental wellbeing: Reducing stressors in your life and getting support for any mental health concerns you may be experiencing.
• Smoking: If you smoke, talking to your GP about plans to quit smoking.
• Drinking: If you drink regularly or heavily, cutting down on alcohol and staying within the recommended limits.

Whenever you are making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle it is important to discuss this with your GP or consultant first. They will be able to inform you of any impact it may have on the treatments you are taking or health overall.

Feel free to contact our helpline with any general concerns about your psoriasis, we are always happy to help.

Confidential Helpline:

Ring: 01604 251 620, email: mail@psoriasis-association.org.uk or WhatsApp: 07387 716 439.

Phone, email and WhatsApp available Monday to Friday 09.00 to 16.00.