Diminish The Effects of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an unsightly, tough-to-treat skin condition marked by red, raised, and scaly-looking patches of skin that seem to appear and disappear for no good reason. It’s actually an immune disorder. Psoriasis occurs when your body’s T-cells, which are supposed to destroy germs as they enter your system, instead destroy healthy skin cells. In addition, about 15% of those with psoriasis will have some arthritis pain. Scientists aren’t sure what the connection between the two ailments might be but speculate that it may have to do with an immune response that’s also felt in the tendons and ligaments. 16% of people with psoriasis are allergic to gliadin, a gluten protein.

Nutrition Connection
Boosting your immune system with a healthy diet can help diminish the effects of psoriasis. Here’s how:
-Find folic acid. Some studies suggest that people with psoriasis are deficient in the B-vitamin called folate, or folic acid. So liberally lace your diet with plenty of folate-rich foods, which include asparagus, spinach, broccoli, avocados, oranges, chickpeas, and lentils. -Befriend flax. Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil are rich in anti-inflammatory essential fatty acids that may calm skin conditions like psoriasis.
-Opt for omega-3s. A British study found that people who ate 5.5 oz (156 g) of fatty fish a day (think salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines) experienced improved psoriasis symptoms.

Beyond the Diet
Other ways to ease symptoms include:
-Get tested for allergies. Ask your doctor to refer you for testing to see if you’re allergic or sensitive to gluten.
-Stop smoking. One 2007 study found that the more someone smokes, the greater the chance that person has of developing psoriasis.
-Relax in the tub. Add up to 3 cups of Epsom salts to a lukewarm tub. Epsom salts contain magnesium, which helps heal psoriasis by removing the scales and reducing the itch.
-Soak up some sun. Vitamin D helps your body fight psoriasis. During the winter, or on rainy days, take 1000 IU of vitamin D.
-Try tea tree. Dilute tea tree oil in a little olive oil and massage into psoriasis patches several times a day. This home remedy relieves itching and softens scaly skin.