Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease and it has been shown that an excess of fat cells releases inflammatory substances called cytokines that may play a role in psoriasis symptoms. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight may result in a reduction of systemic inflammation.
Additionally, overweight may increase the risk of cardiac disease, diabetes and high blood pressure, which might further complicate the problems associated with psoriasis.
Furthermore, psoriasis treatments tend to be less effective on overweight patients.
Therefore, it is key to maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat products, lean meats, fish, beans, eggs and nuts; and to avoid trans-fats, refined sugars and junk foods, while controlling cholesterol and limiting salt intake.
References
- National Psoriasis Foundation. [Internet]. A national survey explores the influence of diet on psoriasis. Available at: https://www.psoriasis.org/advance/national-survey-maps-influence-diet-psoriasis. Accessed: 12/07/2018.
- Psoriasis Speaks. [Internet]. Diet, Exercise, and Stress. Available at: https://www.psoriasis.com/living-with-psoriasis. Accessed: 27/06/2018.
- Forefront Dermatology [Internet]. Diet Tips for Preventing Psoriasis Flare-Ups. Available at: https://forefrontdermatology.com/diet-tips-preventing-psoriasis-flare-ups/. Accessed: 27/06/2018.
- Imagine [Internet]. Psoriasis and diet: Top Tips for 2018. Available at: https://getimagine.io/psoriasis-and-diet-top-tips-for-2018/. Accessed: 27/06/2018.
- WebMD [Internet]. The Link between body weight and psoriasis. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/features/psoriasis-manage-weight#1. Accessed: 27/06/2018.