Psoriasis is an unpredictable condition that doesn’t discriminate. Any gender of any age can have it. If you suffer from this condition, you surely want to take the necessary steps to avoid painful flare-ups. Believe it or not, your diet does play an important role in how your body reacts to psoriasis. Here, you’ll discover what you should and should not eat, as well as whether stopping alcohol consumption can help with psoriasis.
How Do the Foods I Eat Impact My Psoriasis?
A well-balanced, nutritious diet is necessary for good health, and it’s even more vital for anyone who has psoriasis. Because this condition is directly related to your immune system and inflammatory response, a healthy diet keeps your body’s defense mechanisms functioning properly.
Processed foods, dairy, refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, pastries, etc), foods with saturated and trans fats, gluten, and high amounts of sugar should all be avoided if you have psoriasis. Instead, incorporate lean meats, vegetables, legumes, nuts/seeds, olive oil, and whole grains into your diet.
Is It True That Stopping Alcohol Consumption Can Help With Psoriasis?
There is a theory that alcohol consumption can trigger immune problems that can lead to psoriasis flare-ups. There is also strong evidence that suggests people who drink large amounts of alcohol are also at a higher risk for skin infections. Additionally, it can reduce the effects of medications when you consume alcohol.
Alcohol negatively impacts your body’s ability to absorb vital nutrients. Drinking can lead to dehydration and vitamin deficiencies. It’s important to stay hydrated to maintain healthy skin.
Your liver function is directly tied to your immune system. For years, doctors have known that drinking too much alcohol can actually kill liver cells. While your liver does have the ability to regenerate cells, too much alcohol over time reduces the ability to do so.
What Other Advice Do You Have for Avoiding Psoriasis Flare-Ups?
The keys to avoiding psoriasis flare-ups are boosting and maintaining your body’s immune system, and reducing your inflammatory response. This can be done through diet, keeping stress to a minimum, preventing skin injuries, and taking good care of your skin. If you have psoriasis, a great way to identify your specific triggers is by keeping a journal.
Does Exercise Help With Psoriasis?
Yes, it can and does. Many patients are a bit scared to exercise with psoriasis simply because of skin sensitivity, but as long as you’re careful, you can easily engage in regular exercise.
Stick to low-impact activities such as walking or swimming. You want to avoid excessive sweating, which may trigger a psoriasis flare. Make sure to wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing as well.
When you exercise with psoriasis, remember to focus on consistency rather than duration. Going to a gym once a week for a long, intense workout is not as effective as participating in a few minutes of daily exercise. However, before you begin a fitness routine you should seek guidance from your dermatologist.
For Psoriasis Diagnosis and Treatment That Works, Trust the Experience of Dr. Marjan Yousefi!
While there is no cure, managing this condition is much easier with the right medical care. Dr. Yousefi is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in the treatment of psoriasis and has helped many psoriasis patients over the years improve their quality of life.
If flare-ups are impacting your ability to experience a healthy life or if you’re having a hard time identifying your triggers, Dr. Yousefi can help. She can also shed more light on how stopping alcohol consumption can help with psoriasis. Contact us at 703-255-5070 to book your appointment today!
