AnnaMaria
The Impact of Diet on Psoriasis: What to Avoid to Help Your Skin
Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune condition that causes inflammation, redness, and dry, scaly patches on the skin. While genetics and environmental factors play a major role, your diet can also influence flare-ups and symptom severity.
Though no single food directly causes psoriasis, certain dietary choices may worsen inflammation and aggravate symptoms. Knowing which foods to limit—or eliminate—can be a key step in managing your condition more effectively.
Foods That Can Worsen Psoriasis Symptoms
1. Foods High in Saturated Fats
Processed meats, fried foods, sausages, and full-fat dairy are often loaded with saturated fats, which can trigger inflammation. Since psoriasis is an inflammatory disease, these foods may make flare-ups more intense.
Better options include lean proteins, plant-based oils, and omega-3-rich foods like flaxseeds, walnuts, and salmon, which may help calm inflammation and support skin health.
2. Refined Sugars and Simple Carbs
White bread, pastries, candy, and sugary drinks can spike blood sugar and insulin levels, potentially leading to increased inflammation. Elevated blood sugar has been linked to worsened psoriasis symptoms.
Swap these out for whole grains, fiber-rich vegetables, and foods with a low glycemic index to keep your blood sugar more stable and inflammation in check.
3. Alcohol
Alcohol is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. It can inflame your body, interfere with medications, and even weaken your immune system—making symptoms worse and harder to manage.
If you have psoriasis, consider limiting or avoiding alcohol entirely to reduce flare-up risk and improve overall skin health.
4. Gluten-Containing Foods
Not all psoriasis sufferers are sensitive to gluten—but some notice a clear improvement when they cut it out. This is especially true for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and many processed foods. If you suspect it’s an issue, try a gluten-free diet under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
5. Spicy Foods
Chili peppers, hot sauces, and spicy seasonings may irritate the skin or trigger inflammation in sensitive individuals. If spicy meals seem to make your symptoms worse, try switching to milder herbs and spices.
6. Processed Foods and High Sodium Intake
Packaged snacks, canned soups, frozen meals, and fast food are often high in salt and artificial additives, which can lead to water retention and increased inflammation.
Focus on fresh, whole foods that are minimally processed. A cleaner diet can help your skin—and overall health—stay balanced.
A Personalized Approach to Managing Psoriasis with Diet
Everyone’s psoriasis triggers are different. What bothers one person may not affect another at all. That’s why keeping a food diary can be helpful—it allows you to track which foods are linked to flare-ups or improvements in your condition.
Working with a dietitian or dermatologist can also help you build a personalized eating plan that supports your skin health and overall well-being.
Final Thought
Though diet alone won’t cure psoriasis, making smarter food choices can go a long way in managing symptoms and improving how your skin looks and feels. Load your plate with anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
By paying attention to your diet, you give your body another tool to fight inflammation and help you feel your best—inside and out.
