Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease or skin disorder. It is a condition in which new skin cells erupt faster than the body can discard the old ones. As the skin flares, bright and scarlet, the itching also ensues which can be very painful. Incessantly itching the area can cause the skin to bleed as well.
Although no strong evidence exists that psoriasis prolongs due to a bad diet. The balanced diet can help you regulate weight, heart diseases and diabetes. This has a direct link to psoriasis and you should undertake healthy measures. An array of fruits, vegetables, lean meat, whole grains and low-fat dairy is good to eat on a regular basis. Here are a few foods that may assist in the reduction of itchiness and inflammations.
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Carrots, Squash and Sweet Potatoes
Carrots are excellent at detoxifying the body and rich in beta-carotene. We are all aware of an abundance of Vitamin A in them. Also, they have anti-inflammatory tendencies which aid in reducing the psoriasis flares. It is extremely beneficial for the skin as it prevents dryness and blemishes.
Squash belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family of vegetables. Plentiful in vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E, they are also a good source of carotenoids. Moreover, they contain significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Consumption of squash keeps your skin hydrated, free from pigmentation and free radicals.
Sweet Potatoes helps to shoot down internal and external inflammation. Again, it has a high concentration of beta-carotene, vitamin C and magnesium. There are a variety of coloured tubers like pink, orange, and yellow. Not to mention that the more intense the colour, the more beta-carotene is present in them.
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Spinach, Kale and Broccoli
Spinach is high in folate, which helps to eliminate the red patches and itchiness. A copious amount of calcium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C and beta carotene is present in it. Overall, it is a great addition to the psoriasis diet.
Kale is a nutritious green superfood containing abundant fibre and vitamins. Notably fights psoriasis with its antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties, it strengthens the skin. In addition to detoxifying the body, it also helps in preventing excessive bleeding.
Similarly, broccoli is Kale’s cousin and properties of the latter’s nutritious values as well. Comprising of isothiocyanates and omega-3 fatty acids, it strives to regulate inflammation. Extravagant in fibre, vitamin C and potassium, it fortifies the immune system and skin structure.
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Garlic
Garlic kerbs lipoxygenase, an enzyme which conflates with arachidonic acid and stimulates inflammation. Arachidonic acid is prevalent in psoriasis patients’ skin and fatty tissues. Therefore, consuming garlic regularly may subside the outbreak or prevent it from coming about. Raw garlic contains a high amount of vitamin C. Selenium, allicin and zinc oozes out of crushed garlic. They are all vital to having healthy skin.
Oxidative stress can be associated with skin inflammation in psoriasis sufferers. Rampant antioxidants in garlic helps in stress relieving. Although garlic is beneficial, it does cause some side effects. Particularly when you increase the intake of it, suddenly. Mild side effects may occur as the body needs time to adjust to the diet additions.
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Salmon
Salmon is plenteous in omega 3-fatty acids that possess strong anti-inflammatory properties. Eating wild-caught salmon will give you smooth, glowing and more supple skin.
Also, it has astaxanthin (carotenoid) which makes salmon pink can free radical damage. It is a powerful antioxidant as well. While Salmon has many benefits when it comes to psoriasis, The FDA recommends eating fish twice a week, but not more often.
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Berries
All kinds of berries like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries etc., are succulent and loaded with nutrients that dish out the flares. The virile chemical like anthocyanins gives berries their passionate colouring. Blueberries are the best amongst the lot. As they are low-fat, have high levels of vitamin C, manganese, which is good for bone strength, and fibre. An assortment of berries in your everyday diet is also known to be good for heart’s health.
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Turmeric
Turmeric is famous for its antiseptic properties and uses in Ayurvedic treatments. Indian food has incorporated turmeric as a spice for centuries. It is a powerful root plant belonging to the ginger family. Moreover, it is believed to be able to resist the symptoms of psoriasis.
Although it cannot be said for all the patients suffering from psoriasis. Some of them claim to have intolerance issues regarding the spice. It is better to do a patch test or consume it in smaller portions. Also, it is advised that you take it once or twice a week. And then decide if your body can withstand it or not.
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Lentils
They are an excellent swap for meat, in case you plan on skipping it in your meal. You can add some spices like turmeric and pair it with cauliflower. It would make a great meal if you club it with brown rice, which is good for psoriasis too. Curry detoxifies and eliminates the toxic chemicals from your body.