Psoriasis, which presents as thick scaly patches on the skin, is a chronic skin condition that causes cells on the skin to grow abnormally fast. In normal skin, cells grow and fall off after about four weeks. When the skin sheds off, new cells then grow in place of the cells that have flaked off. When you have psoriasis, those new skin cells come to the skin’s surface much quicker—in days as opposed to weeks. This buildup of patches is referred to as plaques or plaque psoriasis. Psoriasis can be an extremely embarrassing condition—especially during swimsuit season. Psoriasis in not contagious, but it is a chronic condition that requires the correct care and attention to successfully manage.
Psoriasis Diet
There are certain lifestyle measures you can take to help control psoriasis outbreaks. Taking a lukewarm bath daily will help remove the scales associated with psoriasis. You can also add colloidal oatmeal and bath oils to help soothe inflamed skin. It’s also important to apply a heavy moisturizer directly after the bath to help keep the skin moisturized. As far as diet goes, sticking to a hearty-healthy, gluten-free, anti-inflammatory diet can help. Make sure to include omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and mackerel as well as vegetables with anti-inflammatory properties, such as nuts, avocados, kale, spinach and broccoli. The worst foods for psoriasis include alcohol, refined sugar, gluten, fried foods, dairy products and nightshade vegetable, such as tomatoes, pepper and potatoes. Keeping your body at a healthy will also help keep your psoriasis in check.