Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It can be itchy, painful, and embarrassing, and it often comes and goes throughout a person’s life.
The condition happens when the immune system becomes overactive and speeds up the growth of skin cells.
Although there is no cure, many treatments can help control the symptoms. In recent years, scientists have also become interested in how diet may affect psoriasis, because inflammation in the body is closely linked to what we eat.
A new study from researchers at King’s College London suggests that the type of food people eat may influence how severe their psoriasis symptoms are.
The researchers looked at the diets of 257 adults living with psoriasis and compared their nutrient intake with the severity of their condition. Their goal was to see whether certain eating patterns were linked to better or worse symptoms.
The study found that many participants were consuming too much sugar, especially from sweet drinks, and not enough fiber. Fiber is important for gut health and helps reduce inflammation in the body.
People who consumed the highest amounts of sugar from beverages were much more likely to report severe psoriasis symptoms compared to those who drank less sugar. This suggests that sugary drinks may worsen inflammation and trigger flare-ups in some people.
The researchers also examined protein sources in the participants’ diets. They found that people who ate more protein from meat were more likely to have severe psoriasis, even after considering body weight.
In contrast, those who consumed more protein from plant sources such as beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds were less likely to report severe symptoms. This finding supports the idea that plant-based foods may help calm inflammation and improve skin health.
Interestingly, body weight played a role in the results. Higher body mass index weakened the link between sugar intake and psoriasis severity, suggesting that obesity may also contribute to the condition. Excess weight is known to increase inflammation in the body, which can worsen autoimmune diseases like psoriasis.
Plant-based diets are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, all of which can support the immune system and reduce inflammation. Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes may help balance the body’s immune response and protect the skin.
In contrast, diets high in processed foods, sugar, and red meat may increase inflammation and make symptoms worse.
However, the researchers caution that their study does not prove that diet alone causes changes in psoriasis severity. It was an observational study, meaning it looked at patterns rather than testing specific diets in controlled conditions.
Other factors such as stress, genetics, medications, and lifestyle habits can also influence the condition. The authors say that future clinical trials are needed to confirm whether switching to a plant-based diet can directly improve psoriasis.
In reviewing the findings, this study adds to growing evidence that nutrition plays an important role in inflammatory diseases.
While diet is unlikely to replace medical treatment, it may be a helpful addition to standard care. People with psoriasis may benefit from reducing sugary drinks, increasing fiber intake, and including more plant-based proteins in their meals.
Overall, the research suggests that simple dietary changes could potentially ease symptoms and improve quality of life for many people living with psoriasis. It highlights the importance of viewing chronic diseases not only through medication but also through everyday lifestyle choices.
As scientists continue to explore the connection between food and inflammation, plant-rich diets may become an important part of managing conditions like psoriasis in the future.
The study is published in European Journal of Nutrition.
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