4 Best Foods for Psoriasis, According to Nutrition Experts

From eatingwell.com

Learn what foods to include in a psoriasis-friendly diet 

KEY POINTS 

• A Mediterranean-style diet may help reduce psoriasis-related inflammation and improve symptoms.
• Foods rich in fibre, antioxidants and omega-3s, like fruits, whole grains and fatty fish, are beneficial.
• Limiting processed foods, alcohol and stress can help manage psoriasis flare-ups and inflammation.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects around 3% of adults in the United States. It causes red, scaly and inflamed patches on the elbows, knees, scalp and other parts of the skin. These develop because the immune system overreacts to common triggers and produces too many skin cells.

It’s unclear exactly what causes the overactive immune response in psoriasis, but researchers know a combination of genetics and environmental factors are involved. Often, people have a family history of the disease, but factors like infections, medication reactions and stress also play a role. While your eating choices can’t cure psoriasis and there’s no specific diet to follow when you have the condition, some foods like fruits, vegetables, olive oil, nuts, fish, whole grains and beans may help with managing inflammation, research shows. In turn, psoriasis symptoms may be less severe.

Curious which specific foods can help with psoriasis and how? Here’s what nutrition experts recommend.

Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients including polyphenols, carotenoids and vitamin C that act as antioxidants and may help reduce psoriasis-related inflammation.

“They’re also an excellent source of fibre, which is associated with lower inflammation levels,” says Jennie Miremadi, M.S., CNS, LDN. She recommends pairing berries—which provide antioxidants and fibre—with walnuts for an easy snack.

Some other great antioxidant and fibre-rich fruits and vegetables include dark leafy greens, purple sweet potatoes, carrots and tropical fruits like passion fruit and kumquats, says Amy Davis, RD, LDN.

Olive Oil

Across a number of studies, researchers have found that following a Mediterranean-style diet—which includes olive oil and other foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and beans—can be helpful for people with psoriasis.

Containing healthy monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, “diet patterns rich in olive oil, like the Mediterranean diet, are associated with lower inflammation overall and may help improve psoriasis symptoms by targeting underlying inflammatory pathways,” says Ilana Schachter, RDN.

Curious how to incorporate more olive oil into your diet? Davis recommends using olive oil as your primary cooking oil and as the base for your salad dressings. She also suggests making a kale salad with purple sweet potatoes, hazelnuts and an olive oil vinaigrette.

In the warmer months, “a watermelon salad with feta, olive oil and fresh herbs can be a refreshing, anti-inflammatory side,” Schachter says. 

Whole Grains

Whole grains are a good source of dietary fibre, which has been associated with lower levels of inflammation in the body. Whole grains like oats and barley contain fermentable fibres that gut bacteria break down in the colon to produce short-chain fatty acids. These compounds help reduce inflammation and modulate immune responses, Schachter explains.

While no single food is a standalone treatment for psoriasis, replacing refined grains with whole grains is a dietary pattern that’s consistently associated with lower markers of systemic inflammation.

“Swap white refined grains with whole grains like rolled oats, quinoa, brown rice and whole-grain bread,” Davis says. Other ideas include overnight oats, a bulgur pilaf side dish or quinoa stuffed peppers. For an anti-inflammatory meal that includes whole grains and many other psoriasis-friendly foods, Miremadi recommends combining leafy greens, roasted salmon, farro or quinoa, and then tossing it with lots of extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.

Fatty Fish

                                                          Credit: 

Photographer: Robby Lozano. EatingWell design

Fatty fish like salmon, sardines and mackerel are rich in the omega-3 fatty acids DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which research suggests can help reduce systemic inflammation. The body can’t produce omega-3s naturally, so it’s important to get them from the food you eat.

“In a disease like psoriasis, which is characterized by chronic inflammation and immune activation, fatty fish may be supportive for managing inflammation and symptoms,” Miremadi says.

Looking for ways to eat more fatty fish? Consider sardines on whole-grain crackers, a high-protein canned salmon salad or even grilled mackerel. Additionally, “options like salmon burgers or Moroccan-style fish provide omega-3s while still feeling satisfying and flavourful,” Schachter says.

Other Tips for Managing Psoriasis

• Minimize your intake of processed foods. Consuming ultra-processed foods, like packaged sweet or savoury snacks, processed meats and soft drinks, is linked with a higher risk for psoriasis. A diet high in ultra-processed foods has also been linked with increased inflammation and may worsen or trigger psoriasis flare-ups.
• Limit your alcohol intake. Alcohol is known to trigger or worsen psoriasis flare-ups.
• Steer clear of smoking. Smoking has been linked with more severe psoriasis and can also increase the risk of developing psoriasis.
• Find ways to minimize stress. Stress can trigger psoriasis flare-ups. Habits like journaling, meditation and gentle movement can all help with managing stress.

  National Psoriasis Foundation. A Few Self-Care Tips to Manage Psoriasis Itch and Scaling

• Our Expert Take

  There’s no standard diet that people with psoriasis need to follow. And no single food can treat or cure the condition. But research suggests that eating specific foods like fruits, vegetables, olive oil, whole grains and fatty fish can help reduce inflammation. This may help support a balanced immune response, which can be beneficial for individuals with psoriasis. Keep in mind that dietary changes work best as a complement to medical treatment, not a replacement for it. And of course, it’s always a good idea to speak with a physician or registered dietitian before making any major changes to your diet. 

• https://www.eatingwell.com/best-foods-for-psoriasis-according-to-experts-11954200
  

'Life-changing' psoriasis pill gets FDA approval

From imb.uq.edu.au

An important new psoriasis medicine developed under a collaboration between Johnson & Johnson and University of Queensland (UQ) spin-out Protagonist Therapeutics has received approval for use by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The new drug, icotrokinra, will be marketed as ICOTYDE. 

Protagonist was launched from UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) in 2001 to pioneer the development of new oral peptide drugs for hard-to-treat conditions. ICOTYDE was jointly discovered by Protagonist and JNJ scientists. The Protagonist team included members of Protagonist’s embedded research team at IMB.   

Image: Protagonist Therapeutics founder Professor Mark Smythe.

“I believe this is a life-changing drug for people with this debilitating condition,” said Greg Bourne, the head of Protagonist’s IMB research team. “The science we undertake in Australia, and here at IMB, can transform lives around the world.”

Protagonist founder Professor Mark Smythe added, “These diseases affect millions of people around the world, and currently, most advanced treatments are through injection. But we also know 75 percent of people don’t like needles, especially children, so this oral drug brings targeted treatment and safety expectations with the gentleness and convenience of a once-daily pill.”

Professor Smythe held several executive positions at Protagonist until 2022, when he stepped down to become Chief Executive Officer of Infensa Bioscience Pty Ltd. 

Medical milestone 

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition causing inflamed skin patches that affects an estimated 60 - 125 million people worldwide.  Millions of people suffer from moderate to severe forms that can have deep physical, social and psychological impacts.

IMB Executive Director Professor Ian Henderson said what it means for those patients is what makes the FDA approval so exciting.

“ICOTYDE offers a convenient, once-daily treatment for those living with psoriasis, and it paves the way for further research into oral therapeutics for other immune-mediated conditions,” Professor Henderson said.

“It highlights the power of collaborative research, reinforces IMB’s reputation as a powerhouse of scientific innovation and positions Australia as a global leader in next-generation therapeutics. Our researchers are accelerating innovation through industry partnerships to tackle diseases with high unmet needs, reaching global markets to improve the lives of millions worldwide.”

ICOTYDE is under additional assessment for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.

IMB Translation Director, Professor Mark Blaskovich, said “Australia has played an important role in many important medical advancements, including cervical cancer vaccine Gardasil and the discovery that bacteria Helicobacter pylori causes ulcers. We’re very proud of the contribution the IMB made to ICOTYDE as well.”

Protagonist, headquartered in the US with additional research operations at IMB, is one of 20 companies launched by IMB, and one of more than 136 companies originating from UQ intellectual property.

Protagonist, in partnership with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, is also seeking approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for another drug, rusfertide, another drug developed from Protagonist’s peptide platform to treat polycythemia vera, a form of blood cancer.

https://imb.uq.edu.au/article/2026/04/life-changing-psoriasis-pill-gets-fda-approval 

Psoriasis could trigger ‘painful’ joint condition - signs to look out for

From belfastlive.co.uk

It can cause lasting joint damage and even disability if left untreated

Psoriasis, affecting over a million people across Britain, may put those living with the condition and their family members at increased risk of a specific form of arthritis. The condition can affect multiple joints in the body and, when severe cases go untreated, could potentially result in disability.

Psoriasis Association UK reports that approximately one in five people with psoriasis go on to develop psoriatic arthritis. The two key warning signs are psoriasis affecting the skin, nails or scalp, alongside joint pain, stiffness or swelling, although which joints are affected differs significantly from person to person.

Where psoriasis affects the fingernails, it's commonly linked with arthritis in the fingertip joints. Other commonly impacted areas include the knees, ankles, wrists, hips and the smaller joints in the hands and feet.

Arthritis Action notes that psoriatic arthritis can develop in adults of any age. Some people may experience a mild version affecting only one or two finger joints, while others may find the condition spreading to their spine and sacroiliac joints.

Symptoms in affected joints, according to Psoriasis Association UK:

• Stiffness, pain, throbbing, swelling and tenderness in one or more joints
• Swollen sausage-like finger(s) or toe(s)
• Nail changes
• Tenderness, pain and swelling over tendons
• A reduced range of movement
• General tiredness and fatigue

These symptoms often intensify in the morning, with certain people noticing their condition varies over time. There isn't a specific blood test to identify psoriatic arthritis. Healthcare practitioners will assess your joints and examine both your personal and family medical background before carrying out investigations to exclude other common arthritis types like rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

                                                        Psoriatic arthritis can affect adults of any age (Image: GETTY)

Managing psoriatic arthritis involves numerous approaches, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and self-care strategies. Certain people may require more clinical interventions such as pain relief medication, steroid injections into joints or potentially surgery, while others could see improvements through a blend of multiple therapies.

Arthritis Action explains: "The treatment of psoriatic arthritis depends on how many joints are affected and how severely. If only one or two small joints are affected, the treatments may be painkillers or anti-inflammatory tablets such as naproxen."

Particular medicines given for severe arthritis presentations can additionally help with skin psoriasis. However, the Psoriasis Association UK notes that some people have developed psoriatic arthritis manifestations prior to any psoriasis becoming evident on their skin.

The hallmark symptom of psoriasis is the appearance of dry, itchy, sore and scaly skin patches covered in what looks like silvery-white scales. According to the NHS, these patches usually range from one to two cm in size, with most people experiencing multiple small patches scattered across their body.

The most common places to get psoriasis are:

• Head and behind the ears
• Chest, tummy and back
• Bottom
• Forearms and elbows
• Lower legs and knees
• Folds of the body such as in the groin

Should psoriasis impact the nails, it may cause pitting or small dents. Similar to psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis symptoms come and go in cycles, with patients experiencing intermittent episodes of the condition.

While psoriasis cannot be cured, it's generally manageable through specialised creams, lotions or ointments. The condition can significantly affect mental health too, which may lead to referral to a mental health specialist for further assistance.

https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/health/psoriasis-could-trigger-painful-joint-33790327 

9 Grooming Tips Every Man With Psoriasis Skin Rash Should Know

From stylerave.com

Living with a chronic skin condition goes beyond appearance. It affects comfort, confidence, and your overall sense of control. For many men dealing with eczema, Rosacea, or Psoriasis skin rash, daily grooming becomes a balancing act, looking presentable while avoiding irritation. Because inflammation is often persistent, visible, and misunderstood, a more thoughtful approach to skincare is essential.

In recent years, dermatologists have shifted how they approach men’s grooming. A basic bar of soap and any lotion is no longer enough. The focus now is on targeted care, repairing the skin barrier, and maintaining consistency, especially when managing conditions like psoriasis skin rash. The good news is that with the right habits, you can reduce flare-ups, improve skin comfort, and keep your routine simple.

Here are 9 grooming tips every man with a skin condition should know…

#1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser

Photo: Pexels

PIN IT

If you’re still using a harsh bar soap on your face, it’s time to switch. Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers are far less likely to strip the skin or trigger irritation. Over-washing can also worsen dryness and inflammation, so aim to cleanse twice daily, morning and night, and keep the routine minimal.

#2. Moisturize Like It Matters

Moisturizing is essential when managing chronic skin conditions. A rich, barrier-repairing cream helps strengthen skin that is often compromised in conditions like psoriasis. Apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in hydration, and reapply as needed throughout the day. With consistency, this step alone can reduce itching and make flare-ups less severe over time.

#3. Prioritize Mineral Sunscreen

Photo: Tigist Mezzanzanica/iStock Images

PIN IT

Sun exposure can trigger or worsen inflammatory conditions, particularly rosacea. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are typically better tolerated by sensitive skin than chemical formulas. Wearing sunscreen daily isn’t just about preventing sunburn; it also protects already-reactive skin from further irritation.

#4. Learn to Read Labels

When managing chronic skin issues, ingredients matter just as much as routine. Look for beneficial components like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and colloidal oatmeal, which support hydration and barrier repair. At the same time, avoid common irritants such as fragrance, alcohol, and aggressive exfoliants. Even products labelled “natural” can aggravate sensitive skin or trigger a psoriasis flare if they contain hidden irritants.

#5. Always Patch Test New Products

Photo: R+R Medicinals/Unsplash

PIN IT

Introducing a new product without testing it first can lead to unnecessary flare-ups. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and wait 24 hours to monitor your skin’s reaction. It’s also best to introduce one product at a time, so you can clearly identify what works and what doesn’t.

#6. Shave Smarter, Not Harder

Shaving can be particularly harsh on sensitive or inflamed skin. Use a single- or double-blade razor, shave in the direction of hair growth, and always use a moisturizing shaving cream. Avoid alcohol-based aftershaves and opt for soothing balms with calming ingredients like aloe or niacinamide to minimize irritation.

#7. Turn Down the Heat

Photo: Prostockstudio

PIN IT

Hot showers may feel relaxing, but they can worsen dryness and inflammation. Stick to lukewarm water and keep showers brief. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it. Friction alone can aggravate sensitive areas and make conditions like psoriasis skin rash more uncomfortable.

#8. Simplify During Flare-Ups

When your skin is flaring, less is more. Strip your routine back to the essentials: a gentle cleanser, prescribed treatments (if any), a moisturizer, and sunscreen during the day. Avoid introducing new products or using active ingredients like retinoids or exfoliating acids, as these can worsen irritation during sensitive periods.

#9. Know When to See a Dermatologist

Photo: SeventyFour/Pexels

PIN IT

A solid routine can go a long way, but some skin conditions require professional care. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a dermatologist. Prescription treatments and expert guidance can significantly improve how you manage chronic inflammation.

Time To Get Smarter With Your Skincare

Having a chronic skin condition doesn’t mean giving up on looking good—it means being more intentional about how you care for your skin. Small, consistent changes, from choosing the right cleanser to identifying your triggers, can make a meaningful difference.

With the right approach, even persistent conditions like psoriasis can become far more manageable. In the end, good grooming isn’t about perfection. It’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin.

https://www.stylerave.com/psoriasis-skin-care-tips/ 

Signs Your Rash is Actually Psoriasis

From balconesdermatology.com

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects more than eight million Americans. However, the symptoms of psoriasis can be similar to other types of skin issues, and it can be difficult to know what’s going on without a professional skin evaluation.

The basics of psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that’s triggered by an autoimmune disorder. The immune system dysfunction causes skin cells to develop rapidly. This leads to a build-up of cells on the surface of the skin, which results in noticeable and often uncomfortable side effects.

While the root cause of psoriasis and the immune dysfunction related to it isn’t well-understood, there are known triggers for the condition. You may experience flare-ups due to:

• Weather changes
• Skin infections and injuries
• Exposure to cigarette smoke
• Use of high blood pressure medications and other drugs

Psoriasis is a chronic disease without a cure. If left unmanaged, psoriasis can increase your risk of developing permanent skin damage. People with psoriasis are also more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.

Additionally, sufferers may be prone to mental or emotional health issues, such as depression, if they feel self-conscious about the appearance of their skin during a psoriasis flare-up.

5 warning signs of a psoriasis flare-up

There are different types of psoriasis that affect adults and kids, and each causes its own distinctive symptoms. However, many psoriasis conditions cause similar symptoms, which can also be confused with rashes and other skin conditions.

Here’s an overview of some common symptoms of a psoriasis flare-up: 

1. Dry, thick skin patches

Dry patches of skin that become thick and sometimes appear raised from the skin are hallmarks of plaque psoriasis. These patches, known as plaques, may start small, but they can grow together and create a larger plaque.

Plaques can develop anywhere on the body, but they’re more common on the lower back, scalp, knees, and elbows.

2. Silvery, scaly skin

Plaques that appear silver in colour or have a white coating are also hallmarks of plaque psoriasis. If you have very light skin, the scales may be pink or red in colour. On very dark skin, plaques may be brown or purple with grey scales.

3. Persistent itching

Plaques are often itchy, which causes many people to scratch the areas. However, scratching could make the plaques grow thicker and cause skin damage.

 

Itchy skin is a common symptom of plaque psoriasis and erythrodermic psoriasis.

4. Red bumps

Guttate psoriasis is a lifelong condition that causes the sudden appearance of red bumps. Bumps usually form on the torso and limbs, but they may also affect the scalp, face, and ears. They can last for several weeks or months before clearing.

5. Pus-filled bumps

Pustular psoriasis is a rare condition that causes pus-filled bumps to develop on widespread areas of the skin. Often, the bumps break open and leak within 24 hours of forming. The skin then becomes very dry and begins to peel, revealing the smooth skin beneath. The cycle typically repeats within a few days or weeks.

https://www.balconesdermatology.com/blog/signs-your-rash-is-actually-psoriasis 

What to Eat (and Avoid) for Psoriasis Relief, According to Experts

From gq.com

No amount of any food will make psoriasis disappear. But what you put on your plate can help. Experts share the best diet to dial down your symptoms 

Psoriasis is more than just itchy skin that won’t cooperate. It’s a condition driven by an overactive immune response beneath the surface. “Under the skin plaques, in addition to intense inflammation, there is also angiogenesis, or the abnormal growth of blood vessels,” says William Li, MD, physician, scientist, and author of Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself. “These new blood vessels deliver even more inflammatory cells and cytokines to the skin, making the lesions and symptoms worse in a vicious cycle.” Medical treatments for psoriasis are designed to target those pathways, and it turns out that certain foods can also impact them—for better or worse.

There’s no miracle diet that can make psoriasis disappear. But what you put on your plate could dial down inflammation or rev up the intensity or frequency of your flares. Ahead, discover what’s worth eating and limiting to help keep them in check.

                                                                                               Kelsey Niziolek; Getty Images

The best foods for psoriasis

The dietary pattern with the strongest evidence behind it hails from across the Atlantic. Dr. Li and Shira Wieder, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, both say that the Mediterranean diet has the most evidence to alleviate psoriasis. One recent randomized controlled trial in adults with mild to moderate psoriasis looked at the effects of this style of eating. Compared to a control group on a low-fat diet, the Mediterranean dieters showed significant improvements in psoriasis severity within 16 weeks. According to Dr. Li, the staples of the famed diet—including fruits, veggies, legumes, whole grains, fish, extra virgin olive oil, and nuts—help since they’re loaded with polyphenols, fibre, and healthy fats that have anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic properties.

Dr. Li singles out fatty fish—including sardines, salmon, and anchovies—for their rich content of anti-inflammatory omega-3s. (Not fond of fish? Unfortunately, the evidence on fish oil supplements for psoriasis is mixed.) He also emphasizes the utility of EVOO, which contains potent polyphenols like hydroxytyrosol and oleocanthal, as well as berries of all kinds, which pack polyphenols like anthocyanins and ellagic acid.

And some good news if you’re a coffee drinker: Your morning brew and midday pick-me-up could work in your favour. “Coffee contains chlorogenic acid and other polyphenols that suppress inflammation and angiogenesis,” says Dr. Li. Just be sure not to exceed three cups per day, he warns, as too much caffeine may have the opposite effect.

Foods to limit or avoid

On the flip side, the foods linked with worse outcomes probably won’t surprise you. Ultraprocessed foods—especially those with artificial preservatives, colouring, sweeteners, and other additives—are a no-go if you’re determined to avoid triggering flares. Their impact is in part attributed to their effects on the gut-skin axis. Chemical additives may disrupt healthy gut bacteria, which can increase systemic inflammation and make psoriasis worse, Dr. Li explains. He also advises nixing processed meats and soda (including Diet Coke, a.k.a. the fridge cigarette) for the same reason. Per Dr. Wieder, other foods that aren’t doing you any favours include pro-inflammatory simple carbs, high-sugar snacks, and alcohol. “In addition, there is evidence that reducing saturated fat intake can be helpful,” she says. (If you’re also among the estimated 86 million adults in the U.S. with high cholesterol, consider lowering saturated fat as a two-for-one benefit.)

Some research also shows the merits of avoiding high amounts of salt and restricting calories. And in one survey, hundreds of psoriasis patients reported that they experienced relief by removing nightshades (such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers), as well as by going vegan or paleo, though the research there is limited.

Lastly, gluten may be a trigger for some. That said, Dr. Wieder advises against cutting it out of your diet unless you truly have to. “Self-imposed gluten-free diets have not shown to be beneficial in psoriasis control unless the person has been diagnosed with celiac disease,” she explains.

The bottom line

While your diet won’t replace your dermatologist, what you put into (and not just onto) your body day in and day out could impact psoriasis. And though the right foods may help reduce the number or severity of flares, it’s one piece of a larger system. Sleep, stress, exercise, and medical treatments all matter, too. All said, consider your diet to be a supporting player—not a replacement—for the treatments that keep your immune system in check.

https://www.gq.com/story/what-to-eat-for-psoriasis-relief-according-to-experts