Expert shares the best 'anti-inflammatory' diet to curb symptoms of psoriasis

From express.co.uk 

Certified nutritionist Rebekah Lamb spoke to Express.co.uk about the best "anti-inflammatory" diet to curb symptomatic psoriasis

Psoriasis is considered an "immune condition" by the Psoriasis Association. "When a person has psoriasis, their skin replacement process speeds up, taking just a few days to replace skin cells that usually take 21-28 days," the charity explained. Affecting up to 1.8million people in the UK, the condition typically surfaces in early adulthood and then later in life, from the age of 50.

Recent research discovered that psoriasis is caused when T-cells become overreactive. People who suffer from the skin condition develop raised "plaques" which can be flaky, scaly, red on Caucasian skin, and dark on darker skin. The itchy condition can develop on any area of the body; the most common places include the scalp, hands, feet, and genitals.

While there is no cure for the long-term health condition, the symptoms can be managed.

Nutritionist Rebekah Lamb said "anti-inflammatory foods", such as "antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables" can "help to soothe" psoriasis.

"Because psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, eating anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce its severity," she explained.

"Most fruit and vegetables, as well as herbs rich in antioxidants, are all anti-inflammatory."

Other anti-inflammatory foods Lamb recommends for people suffering from psoriasis include: nuts, seeds, and salmon.

"Healthy fats – such as those found in salmon, nuts and seeds – also help to reduce inflammation in our bodies and skin," she added. "Fish oil supplements can be beneficial if you’re not a fan of eating seafood."

Lamb acknowledged that, for some, psoriasis can knock their confidence when the condition is noticeable.

"What’s more, cold weather can trigger psoriasis flare-ups, making it even more important to manage effectively in the winter months," she added.

While Lamb recommends dietary changes to help manage psoriasis, the Psoriasis Association said there's not yet been a "definite link" between diet and the skin condition.

"There has been some research in other inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, that suggests that eating foods that reduce inflammation in the body may be helpful," the charity stated. "There is no definite evidence to say that this works in psoriasis but, again, it may be an approach that some people find helps."

New research has suggested that a gluten-free diet could help some people with psoriasis, the charity added.

How many anti-inflammatory foods do you eat? (Image: Getty)

A gluten-free diet

Coeliac UK explained gluten is found in the grains of wheat, barley, and rye. Foods containing gluten can include: bread, pasta, cereals, biscuits, pies, gravies, and pastries.

The Psoriasis Association recommends keeping a food diary to see if certain foods trigger a flare-up in symptoms for you.

Certified nutritionist Rebekah Lamb works on behalf of Made 4 Vitamins.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1683549/psoriasis-symptoms-anti-inflammatory-diet