What to Avoid & What to Eat
Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that makes skin cells grow too quickly, leading to red patches, scales and itching. Although there’s no cure, you can manage psoriasis with treatments, lifestyle changes and by watching what you eat. Some foods can make symptoms worse, while others can help your skin. To help, there's ZORYVE, a once-daily topical treatment used to treat plaque psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and mild to moderate eczema.
Worst Foods for Psoriasis
Processed Foods
Foods high in preservatives, additives and artificial ingredients can trigger inflammation, making psoriasis symptoms worse. This includes things like chips, fast food and frozen meals.
Sugary Foods and Beverages
High sugar intake can lead to weight gain and increase inflammation in the body, both of which can make psoriasis more difficult to manage. Sodas, candies and desserts should be limited.
Red Meat and Fatty Foods
Red meats, particularly those high in saturated fats like bacon and sausage, can increase inflammation. Fatty foods in general can contribute to weight gain, further complicating psoriasis management.
Dairy Products
For some people with psoriasis, dairy can be a trigger. It’s believed that the protein casein found in dairy may contribute to inflammation, worsening psoriasis symptoms.
Gluten-Containing Foods
Some studies suggest a link between gluten sensitivity and psoriasis. If you notice that gluten-containing foods like bread, pasta and certain cereals trigger your symptoms, it might be worth cutting them out.
Nightshade Vegetables
Vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes and peppers belong to the nightshade family, which some people find worsens their psoriasis. If you notice increased flare-ups after eating these, it might help to limit them.
Best Foods for Psoriasis
Just as certain foods can make psoriasis worse, others can help soothe and reduce symptoms. Here are some of the best foods to include in your diet if you have psoriasis:
Fruits and Vegetables
Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, fruits and vegetables are a key part of any psoriasis-friendly diet. Berries, leafy greens and carrots are particularly beneficial.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s, found in fish like salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce psoriasis symptoms.
Whole Grains
Whole grains like oats, brown rice and quinoa are great for reducing inflammation and keeping your digestive system healthy.
Lean Protein
Opt for lean proteins like chicken, turkey and fish over red meat. These proteins are less likely to trigger inflammation.
Healthy Fats
Olive oil, avocados and nuts provide healthy fats that can support skin health and reduce inflammation.
Treatment Options for Psoriasis
In addition to dietary changes, there are several treatment options available for managing psoriasis. One promising treatment is ZORYVE.
ZORYVE (Roflumilast Cream)
ZORYVE is a topical cream used to treat mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. It works by reducing the inflammation that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. ZORYVE is easy to apply and has been shown to effectively reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms. It’s often recommended for daily use as part of a broader treatment plan.
Topical Steroids
Topical steroids are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching. They are available in various strengths and are typically used during flare-ups.
Phototherapy
Light therapy, or phototherapy, involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light under medical supervision. This treatment can help slow the growth of skin cells and reduce scaling and inflammation.
Oral and Injected Medications
For more severe cases of psoriasis, oral or injected medications that affect the entire body may be prescribed. These can include biologics, which target specific parts of the immune system.
Eating Right with Psoriasis
Managing psoriasis effectively requires a combination of treatments, lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments. By avoiding the worst foods for psoriasis and incorporating more of the best foods into your diet, you can help reduce flare-ups and support your overall skin health. Treatment options like ZORYVE offer additional relief, helping to control symptoms and improve quality of life. If you’re dealing with psoriasis, speak with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive plan that works for you.
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