Managing chronic inflammation with psoriasis

Up to 3%Trusted Source of adults in the United States have psoriasis. It causes skin symptoms, such as raised plaques and discoloration, and can also affect other parts of the body, such as the joints and eyes. What causes inflammation in psoriasis?

In people with psoriasis, immune system dysfunction causes inflammatory cells to build up in the middle layer of the skin, known as the dermis.

The condition also speeds the growth of skin cells in the epidermis, the outer skin layer.

Typically, skin cells grow and flake off in the span of a month. This process speeds up to just a few days in p eople with psoriasis. Instead of shedding, skin cells pile up on the skin’s surface, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as raised plaques, scales, swelling, and redness or discoloration. Is there a way to treat inflammation?

  Although inflammation in psoriasis is due to immune system dysregulation, studiesTrusted Source suggest that people can reduce this inflammation through lifestyle and dietary changes. This can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

     How to manage inflammation
     While there is currently no cure for psoriasis, the following habits may help reduce psoriasis-related inflammation and increase a person’s chances of experiencing remission.

     Eating a nutritious diet
     Diet is strongly linked to systemic inflammation. Studies suggest that certain inflammatory dietary patterns can increase the risk of psoriasis and worsen symptoms.

     A nutritious diet looks different for everyone. However, the following steps may help a person establish one:

Avoiding inflammatory foods: Certain foods and beverages contain pro-inflammatory substances that increase inflammation and trigger psoriasis symptoms.

     Maintaining a moderate weight
     Obesity is a risk factor for psoriasis development. People with psoriasis who have overweight or obesity may also experience more severe symptoms than people with a moderate weight.

Weight loss may reduce inflammatory markers and help reduce psoriasis symptoms in people with excess body weight.

      A 2020 study found that people with psoriasis and overweight or obesity who reduced their body weight by 12% through a 10-week program experienced a 50–75% reduction in psoriasis severity. Participants experienced an average weight loss of 23 pounds.