Psoriasis is a recurring, auto-immune skin condition that results in the quick accumulation of skin cells. This accumulation results in a scaly appearance of the skin. In addition, the surface of the skin may also appear red and inflamed for some people.
The usual appearance of psoriasis is there are reddish, thick patches of inflamed skin which surface are usually characterized by silver or white scales.
There are times when these skin patches crack and result in bleeding. Psoriasis basically develops because the skin reproduction process is abnormally fast. Normally, the cells of the skin grow deep and rise to the surface slowly.
One month is the normal life cycle of skin cells but for individuals suffering from psoriasis, this entire cycle happens and gets completed in just a couple of days. This does not give the skin cells ample time to fall off first.
This quick overproduction process results in the cells of the skin getting accumulated. Psoriasis may affect any part of the body, including the face, scalp, neck, feet, and hands.
However, the scaly patches most commonly develop on the joints, such as on the knees and elbows. There is also a less common form of psoriasis that develops in the groin areas, the mouth, and the nails.
What are the symptoms?
The signs and symptoms of psoriasis vary depending on the type and the individual. Some people with psoriasis could have it on huge portions of their bodies, while some people with psoriasis could have only a couple of flaky skin on their elbows or scalp. As mentioned earlier, plaque psoriasis is the most common type of skin condition.
The following are some of its most common symptoms:
- Patches of skin that are inflamed, raised, and reddish in color
- White or silvery plaque or scales covering these patches
- Very dry skin that is prone to cracking and bleeding
- Joints that are swollen and painful
- Nails that are thick and pitted
- Burning sensation and itchiness surrounding the patches
- Soreness around the patches
The Psoriasis diet
Wondering how to get rid of psoriasis naturally? Your diet is the basis for good health, and it’s no different when it comes to psoriasis. Not only is your diet treatment for active psoriasis, but it’s also a way to prevent psoriasis in the first place.
When it comes to natural treatment for psoriasis, these are some of the best foods to consume on a regular basis. I also recommend these food choices for anyone looking for a psoriatic arthritis diet. The more you consume healing, anti-inflammatory foods, the more improvement you will see in your skin’s health.
Aloe Vera
Applied externally and taken internally, aloe vera is very soothing to the body, especially to the digestive system and skin. When you’re on a psoriasis diet, you definitely want to avoid processed foods, simple sugars, alcohol, conventional dairy, conventional meats, hydrogenated oils, and fried foods.
You should also keep caffeine intake low. For some sufferers, a gluten-free diet helps improve symptoms.
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices are anti-inflammatory and contain antioxidants. Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice known as turmeric, is known for its potent health properties.
A 2012 scientific review specifically notes turmeric’s ability to alter TNF cytokine expression, which is known to play an essential role in the start and continuation of psoriatic lesions.
This is probably why patients find turmeric helpful in minimizing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis flare-ups. You can liberally add this spice to your food, keeping in mind that the FDA considers 1.5 to 3.0 grams of turmeric per day safe.
Raw Dairy
Raw milk is a much healthier choice than conventional milk. Rich in vitamin D and enzymes, raw dairy products can be therapeutic for psoriasis.
Probiotics
Consuming foods high in probiotics can support digestion, reduce inflammation and boost immunity. Look for organic, raw, cultured dairy like kefir, yogurt, and cultured vegetables.
There have been many, many personal accounts of probiotics clearing up stubborn psoriasis that did not respond to conventional treatment.
One sufferer had psoriasis on his heels for about 10 years that did not respond to topical treatment. He started taking probiotics for a different condition, and his heels cleared up and stayed clear.
Wild-Caught Fish
Fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines are excellent sources of vitamin D as well as omega-3 fatty acids, which are both keys to improving psoriasis. Vitamin D is clinically proven to help fight psoriasis. If you have psoriasis, fish should be the new leading protein in your life rather than meat and conventional dairy products. Studies have shown that eating fewer protein-rich foods, primarily meats, and dairy products may help ease psoriasis flare-ups.
Vitamin A Foods
Think orange, yellow and dark leafy green vegetables. By adding these winners to your diet on a daily basis, you will increase your vitamin A, which is critical for skin healing.
Good sources of vitamin A include cantaloupe, carrots, mango, tomatoes, kale, collard greens, and watermelon.
Zinc
Zinc is critical for keeping skin healthy. Some evidence shows that zinc helps reduce pain and joint swelling for psoriasis sufferers. Grass-fed beef, lamb, pumpkin seeds, kefir, and chickpeas are all great sources of zinc.
Antioxidants
Similar to the lineup for fiber-rich foods, foods high in antioxidants include vegetables, fruits, herbs, beans, and nuts. Some choices that top the list when it comes to antioxidants include goji berries, wild blueberries, pecans, cilantro, and kidney beans.
Antioxidant consumption is especially important since psoriasis sufferers are at a greater risk for cancer and heart disease.
Fiber
By upping your intake of high-fiber foods you can help to keep your digestive system healthy, which helps avoid constipation and keep your natural detoxification processes on track.
Fruits, vegetables, beans, and seeds are all rich in fiber. If you or your doctor think that you might have a gluten allergy or any other type of food allergy, then food allergy testing or an elimination diet can help guide you toward what to avoid in your diet.
For more tips on how to treat the skin condition, read the article linked below.
Tips on treating psoriasis naturally
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