Psoriasis is a common chronic skin disease. The name psoriasis comes from the Greek word “psora”, which means itching. There are different types of psoriasis, of which psoriasis vulgaris is the most common. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. The division of the horny cells in the epidermis is accelerated and their maturation is reduced. It is recognized by the red spots, flakes of skin, itching and sometimes pain.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis can appear anywhere on the skin, but it is most common on elbows, knees, lower back and hairy scalp. Psoriasis patches are sharply defined red skin patches with a white flaky layer. It can be very itchy. In addition to physical discomfort, it also has many psychological effects. Psoriasis patients are often ashamed of the spots, especially when they are very visible. Normal activities such as swimming, gym class or going to the hairdresser can be difficult moments. Psoriasis does not always have to be bad. There are periods of reduced symptoms, but sometimes the symptoms can also worsen. Hormonal factors, stress, smoking and climate can be possible aggravating factors. Hereditary predisposition plays an important role in psoriasis. The exact cause is not known.
Therapy
There are several treatments to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. It cannot be cured yet. Treatments can be divided into: local treatments (cream, gel, lotion, ointment), light therapy, systematic treatments (drug) and biological treatments.
Nutrition and psoriasis
Nutrition may reduce psoriasis symptoms. It is even claimed that nutrition goes a step further than medicine. Nutrition can prevent the problem from within. Western diet consists less and less of vegetables and more of refined carbohydrates and fast foods. This is not healthy for the body, it can throw the body out of balance. To bring the body back into balance, it is important to eat enough vegetables. Replace refined carbohydrates with whole grain products and brown rice.
Alkaline diet
The alkaline diet is a diet that may help against the symptoms of psoriasis. The diet helps to better balance the body’s acidity. During this diet, a lot of alkaline food is consumed. Some examples of alkaline products are:
- Endive
- Broccoli
- Cucumber
- Celery
- Wheatgrass
- Radish
- Avocado
- Tomato
- Raisins
Acidic products are mainly meat, poultry, fish and dairy. Artificial sweeteners also have a high acid value. These products are better avoided as much as possible. The acids end up in the blood and urine. When the body is too acidic, diseases can occur. Consuming alkaline products (vegetables) keeps the acidity in the body in balance. The alkaline diet has several benefits. By eating more fruits and vegetables, the body gets more potassium and less sodium. This has benefits for bone health. In addition, potassium is beneficial for chronic diseases. The body will also receive more magnesium. Magnesium is necessary for the functioning of many enzymes. In addition, magnesium is needed to activate vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for the skin. The treatment of psoriasis also uses a substance derived from vitamin D. This substance is used in ointments and creams. Cutting out refined carbohydrates can also cause weight loss. For many people this is a desirable side effect.
Gluten intolerance
More and more research shows that skin complaints can be associated with gluten intolerance. It could therefore be that psoriasis is also aggravated by gluten. A gluten-free diet could help. Dairy products are also the devil. In case of skin conditions, it is often advised to avoid dairy products. Dairy contains hormones that can have a negative effect on the skin.
Omega 3 fatty acids
Various studies have shown that omega 3 fatty acids are good anti-inflammatory agents and have a positive effect on the immune system. Omega 3 can therefore also have a positive effect on psoriasis. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish and fish oil, among other things.
Unfortunately, very little research has been done into the effects of nutrition and the alkaline diet on psoriasis. Every body responds differently to food. There is no harm in experimenting with the above points. By making lifestyle changes in this way, you will not only reduce the symptoms of psoriasis, but improve your overall health, which can provide even more benefits. To notice an effect, it is important to be patient, the body must be given time to adapt to the improved lifestyle.
