Tips for Psoriasis

The nice Snoopy illustrates well what it means not to know how to solve a problem that afflicts us as it can be psoriasis as the Nutritionist Dr. Paola Proietti Cesaretti knows by thewealthyspoon

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a genetic predisposition that causes strong systemic inflammation and an alteration of the immune system. It can affect the skin, nails, scalp, genital tract and joints.

Psoriatic symptoms can be triggered or increased in certain situations: stress, impaired intestinal function (leaky gut or SIBO), consumption of certain foods with an immunogenic and pro-inflammatory effect, pharmacological treatments or a lack of micronutrients (vitamin D, vitamins of group B, Magnesium, …), presence of bacterial, viral or fungal infections (they activate the immune system).

The most effective approach to improve the manifestation of psoriasis is therefore based on the elimination of certain foods, integration with specific nutrients, maintenance of the intestinal apparatus in a state of well-being and stress management.

Foods to be eliminated

The dietary strategy for the treatment of psoriasis is based on elimination: few foods shall be completely excluded to have an improvement.

These foods are:

  • gluten and wheat proteins
  • refined sugars
  • legumes
  • some pseudo-cereals (i.e. quinoa and amaranth)
  • whole grains
  • milk and dairy products
  • solanaceae (i.e. tomatoes, aubergines, peppers, potatoes, Goji berries)

Supplements

It is essential to decrease systemic inflammation and modulate the immune response with the right supplements. They are also indispensable for filling a deficiency, which is always present in people with psoriasis, of some micronutrients. The integration must be done in 3-6 month cycles.

The useful supplements in the protocol for the treatment of the disease are:

  • vitamin D
  • magnesium
  • B vitamins
  • Omega 3
  • turmeric
  • antioxidants

Bowel Health

The well-being of the intestinal microbiota is a crucial factor for the healing process of psoriasis.

To restore the balance of the intestinal bacterial flora and to prevent or treat some of the most frequent intestinal infections, specific supplements are needed:

  • pro and prebiotics (lactobacilli and bifido bacteria)
  • natural intestinal disinfectants (oregano, grapefruit seeds)

Stress

Stress can increase the symptoms related to psoriasis, therefore it is necessary to find solutions aimed at reducing it.

There are different ways to reduce stress, for example:

  • physical activity
  • breathing techniques
  • mindfulness
  • yoga

Notes

The present document includes few tips and recommendation for a generic nutritional guideline. A specific treatment for the patient can be provided after medical anamnesis and body composition examination.

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