Nearly three percent of the world’s population suffer from Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterised by thick, flaking patches of skin. It is thought to be due to an over-reaction of the immune system, that causes inflammation and rapid growth of skin cells. Psoriasis sufferers are commonly given creams or lotions to apply, light therapy and medications to control the immune system. However, these very often don’t address the cause of the problem and may not lead to complete recovery. We have asked the experts to give us their tips on how to deal with psoriasis...
1. Ditch the processed and junk foods
We all know fast foods are bad for us. But how come do they flare up psoriasis? ‘Junk foods very often come with ingredients that may aggravate skin problems and worsen inflammation – including additives, sugar and excess salt. They are also usually high in quickly digested and absorbed carbohydrates (think white bread, pastries and crisps), which can upset the balance of natural flora in our gut as well as blood sugar and hormone balance, all of which can tie in with skin problems.’ Says Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.
2. Support your gut
Having a strong immune system benefits all organs of the body, including skin. About 70% of our immune system is based in our gut! That’s why, apart from eating nutrient-rich foods, supporting healthy flora is the most important step we can take in dealing with psoriasis. ‘If you are suffering from constipation, IBS or ‘leaky gut’, toxins you consume are often reabsorbed into the system, causing increased inflammation in the body and flaring up psoriasis.’ explains Wilkinson. If you’re constipated, eliminating processed foods, eating lots of vegetables, getting enough healthy fats and drinking enough water (generally 1.5 to 2 litres a day) can help. You can also add in a couple of teaspoons of ground flaxseed per day or try a fibre supplement, such as psyllium husk or slippery elm.
‘To help rebalance the flora in the gut – and support the health of the gut lining – a good quality probiotic supplement is a must. Proven Probiotics’ Acidophilus & Bifidus Plus Total Intestinal & Digestive Support (www.provenprobiotics.co.uk, £10.95) contains Proven’s Lab4 blend of bacteria, which has been studied in six human trials demonstrating positive benefits in intestinal and immune heath. It also contains digestion-supporting glutamine and aloe vera, as well as vitamin A, which supports the health of the mucous membranes (the ‘internal skin’, including the gut lining), the skin and immune system.’ Says Adrienne Benjamin, Nutritionist at ProVen Probiotics.
3. Test your vitamin D
Vitamin D, often called the ‘sunshine vitamin’, has an enormous influence on our body. It is vital for bone health, often used for heart conditions as well as obesity and diabetes. How can it be helpful in treating psoriasis then? ‘Vitamin D can change the way cells grow. As those who suffer from psoriasis tend to produce more skin cells, it can slow this process down and cause the plaques to become less scaly and thinner.’ says Shona. So what can we do? ‘It can be difficult to get enough sunlight to stimulate vitamin D synthesis in this country – even in the summer! The ideal first step is to get your vitamin D level tested to see, how much yours needs toincrease, if at all. In most cases, your doctor will do this for you. If you’re deficient (under 75 nmol/L) or ‘insufficient’ (under 100 nmol/L) then taking a supplement can be the best way to get your level up. Try Quest’s Forte D 4000 (www.nutricentre.com, £14.99) a high-strength vitamin D chewable tablet.’ recommends Shona.
4. Balance your omega-3 and 6 levels
Not all fatty acids are the same. While Omega 3, found in fish oil, can reduce inflammation, Omega 6 (vegetable oils) might actually increase it. Unfortunately many people have much higher levels of omega 6 than omega 3 in their body, often due to use of vegetable oils in cooking and lack of oily fish consumption. ‘To correct this balance, cut out all vegetable oils and margarines (as well as processed food) and replace it with healthy fats such as olive oil, coconut oil, butter or ghee. Aim to eat oily fish such as sardines, salmon or mackerel at least three times a week. For additional support, it may be helpful to take a good quality omega-3 fish oil supplement such as Natural Health Practice Omega 3 Support (www.naturalhealthpractice.com, £27.77)’ recommends Dr Marilyn Glenville (www.marilynglenville.com).’
5. Boost your antioxidants
Eating plenty of vegetables and fruits is not only helpful for the vitamins and minerals they contain. They are also rich in phytonutrients – substances, which fall into their own category because they are not related to carbs, proteins, fats or vitamins. ‘Phytonutrients support cells communication and work together in synergy to boost immune system. Many of these phytonutrients, such as quercetin (onions and apples) and anthocyanins (blueberries), can act as antioxidants, protecting against free radical damage. To make sure you get enough of these anti-inflammatory agents, try Nature’s Plus AgeLoss Skin Support (Whole Foods, £47.00), which contains a full-spectrum antioxidant blend and a ‘healthy inflammation response’ blend. Ingredients include turmeric, grape seed extract, green tea, turmeric, resveratrol and pomegranate, together with skin-nourishing vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, biotin and vitamin B3, as well as MSM and glucosamine.’ says Michela Vagnini, Nutritionist at www.naturesplus.co.uk.
6. Treat your skin with natural care
Keeping the skin moist and nourished from the outside is crucial, as it can bring instant relief from itchiness and discomfort. However, emollient creams that are often recommended by doctors and pharmacists, rarely provide long-term relief. What’s more, they can even irritate already inflamed skin, as very often they contain chemicals, such as chlorocresol and cetearyl alcohol. Instead, try a natural cream or balm, such as What Skin Needs Skin Balm (www.whatskinneeds.co.uk, £13.99), which contains a blend of natural ingredients including Plantolin, an extract from an Australian indigenous plant. This powerful ingredient along with Aloe Vera extract and tea tree essential oil can help to manage skin conditions by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage. The formula as a whole is designed to reduce irritation, soothe and repair dry and damaged skin.
via Featured Articles http://www.womensfitness.co.uk/health/1388/how-to-control-psoriasis
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