Plant-rich, low saturated fat diet may reduce psoriasis severity

From diabetes.co.uk

New research from King’s College London suggests that diet may play a key role in managing psoriasis symptoms.

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition has found that people who follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins – while keeping their intake of saturated fats, salt, and sugar low – tend to experience less severe psoriasis. 

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes flaky, scaly patches of skin, which can be uncomfortable and affect confidence and wellbeing.

While it is known to be linked to immune system dysfunction, this study provides new insights into how dietary patterns may influence the severity of symptoms.

How diet affects psoriasis

The study analysed data from 257 adults with psoriasis, assessing their dietary habits using a food frequency questionnaire.

Researchers looked at three well-established diet quality scores:

• The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet which focuses on whole foods, lean proteins and reduced salt and sugar.
• The Healthy Plant-Based Diet Index which prioritises plant-based foods rich in fibre and unsaturated fats while limiting processed and animal-based foods.
• The Mediterranean Diet Score which includes healthy fats, fresh produce, and moderate amounts of fish and dairy.

The results showed that those with low adherence to the DASH diet and Healthy Plant-Based Diet Index were significantly more likely to report worse psoriasis symptoms.

A deeper analysis found that high consumption of red and processed meats was strongly associated with more severe psoriasis—even when body mass index (BMI) was taken into account. Conversely, higher intakes of fruits, nuts, and legumes were linked to milder symptoms though BMI also played a role in this relationship.

New approach to psoriasis management

The findings suggest that dietary choices could be an important factor in managing psoriasis, regardless of weight.

While treatments for psoriasis typically focus on medication and skincare, this research highlights the potential for dietary changes to complement existing treatments.

Lead researcher Sylvia Zanesco, a PhD student at King’s College London, believes this study could have a meaningful impact on patient care: “Given the impact of psoriasis on physical and psychological well-being, incorporating dietary assessments into routine care could offer patients additional support in managing their condition.”

The DASH diet, originally designed to lower blood pressure, may offer anti-inflammatory benefits that help psoriasis.

Similarly, a plant-based diet rich in fibre, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats appears to offer protective effects against psoriasis severity.

While these findings are promising, further research is needed to confirm whether dietary interventions can actively reduce psoriasis symptoms.

This research adds to a growing body of evidence supporting diet as a potential tool in psoriasis management, offering a natural, non-invasive way to complement existing therapies.

https://www.diabetes.co.uk/news/2025/feb/plant-rich-low-saturated-fat-diet-may-reduce-psoriasis-severity.html