Vitamins And Psoriasis
It’s helpful to understand what your current vitamin intake looks like by having a blood test administered by a doctor. Using your blood work results and some tips below, see what vitamins you could use more of. While retinoids are known for skin care benefits, they are also prescribed orally or topically for psoriasis.
According to an older study from 2011 , people with psoriasis were found to have less vitamin A in their skin, particularly carotenoids, than people without psoriasis. Foods with high levels of vitamin A include: kale
spinach
pumpkin
avocado
carrots
sweet potatoes
corn
egg yolks B vitamins Biotin (B-7) and B12 have been found to help improve the symptoms of psoriasis. You may find that biotin supplements, which support healthy cell growth, ease symptoms.
Studies have shown that B12 deficiencies in the body can be linked to psoriasis. Vitamin C Oxidative stress occurs when the body has an imbalance between free radical activity and antioxidant activity. It’s been found that oxidative stress increases in the body while fighting psoriasis.
A case study of one participant with severe psoriasis found that increased vitamin C (among other diet changes) eradicated the person’s psoriasis within 6 months.
Dietary Modifications
Following a gluten-free diet requires you to become educated on all the hidden sources of gluten, as well as educating loved ones. To avoid all gluten, you must read labels carefully (and regularly, because manufacturers can change ingredients without notice).
The same goes with barley derivatives: malt flavoring and malt vinegar, as well as rye, MSG and soy sauce. Remember, just because a food is labeled wheat-free doesn’t mean it’s gluten-free. Some manufacturers add sugar, saturated fats and preservatives to their gluten-free offerings to make them taste better, but they also add calories.
Just because a diet is gluten-free it does not mean it’s calorie-free. Gluten-free diets allow you to still eat all fresh fruits and vegetables, which should be part of your healthy diet.
Consume Fatty Fish
Fish doesn’t have to be fresh-caught to be beneficial.
Eating oily fish may also have a side benefit if you have psoriatic arthritis. This type of fish is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. According to the Arthritis Foundation, omega-3 fats can help ease joint swelling and pain by tamping down inflammation.
Drink Milk
An 8 oz glass of milk provides 100 to 125 IU of vitamin D, whether it’s nonfat, reduced-fat, or whole milk — so opt for the healthier low-fat or nonfat choices. If you’re allergic to cow’s milk, you can get your daily dose of D from milk alternatives such as soy milk, almond milk, or rice milk. Just read the label on the carton, because the amount of vitamin D in an 8 oz serving can vary.
Switch to Fortified Orange Juice
Oranges are known as a great source of vitamin C. But when you’re buying orange juice, look for brands that are fortified with vitamin D; an 8 oz glass should give you around 100 IU. Eat Eggs More Often
Egg yolks are an excellent source of vitamin D — about 40 IU each. Be careful to eat them in moderation if you are sensitive to dietary cholesterol, says the American Heart Association.
Apply a thin layer to psoriasis plaques once or twice a day, or as recommended by your doctor.