Diet may influence psoriasis symptoms, study finds

A new study reinforces that what goes on our plates can directly influence our health. Published in February in the British Journal of Nutrition , the research indicates that inflammatory diets, based on ultra-processed products, red meat, and simple sugars, are associated with more severe psoriasis. Healthy eating patterns, on the other hand, can help reduce symptoms.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes dry patches or plaques on the skin, common in areas such as the arms and elbows. Modifiable risk factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity.

"Symptoms are often recurrent and intermittent, and although the role of diet in this context is not yet fully understood, it is a topic of growing scientific interest," says dermatologist Barbara Miguel of Einstein Hospital Israelita. According to the specialist, previous observational studies have shown that diets with a more inflammatory profile are associated with worsening of the clinical condition.

The new study analyzed 257 adults with psoriasis. They completed detailed questionnaires about their adherence to different dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, the DASH diet (aimed at controlling hypertension), plant-based diets, and even unhealthy ones. The data were then cross-referenced with validated tools to measure the severity of the dermatological disease.

The results reveal a clear association: the healthier the eating pattern, the milder the symptoms tend to be. "This relationship is consistent with what we already know about the pathophysiology of psoriasis. It is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease, and diet is an environmental factor with the potential to modulate systemic inflammatory processes," notes Barbara Miguel.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, fiber, and minimally processed foods is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could help control psoriasis. On the other hand, diets rich in saturated fats, processed meats, and ultra-processed foods promote chronic inflammation, associated with worsening not only of psoriasis but also of other inflammatory diseases.

Diet does not replace medical treatment or established drug therapies for psoriasis. However, it can enhance results and help control frequently associated comorbidities, such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk.

"A healthy diet is no longer seen as a supporting factor, but as an integral part of the therapeutic plan, especially in patients who are overweight or obese, a condition known to aggravate the inflammatory process of psoriasis," emphasizes the Einstein dermatologist. For her, the research reinforces the need for a multidisciplinary approach that considers not only the skin but also the patient's lifestyle habits.

Source: Einstein Agency

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