Psoriasis….It’s a Lifestyle
I’ve been in derm for almost 7 years now.
In that relatively short period of time, I’ve seen the psoriasis treatment portfolio EXPLODE!!
I’m talking 95-97% clearance rates!!! Talk about A MIRACLE for those that have dealt with this for YEARS with seemingly little to no relief.
Not to be a Debbie Downer, but sometimes, when the treatments are SO good, we can often neglect or take it easy in other areas of our life. Chronic inflammatory conditions, like psoriasis, often require more than just medical treatments to really provide sustainable management. So, I segway into what I like to call the “psoriasis lifestyle.”
Over quarantine, I spent A LOT of time reading about the impact of nutrition on our skin. Gluten this. Dairy that. Don’t even start with processed foods and alcohol!
Great info? Absolutely! Realistic for the average person to be able to 1. Understand and 2. Execute? Probably not.
I’ll be honest, I’ve had patients say they’ve had amazing results cutting gluten or dairy completely, but trying to tackle that on top of a new psoriasis diagnosis is a RECIPE FOR DEFEAT.
So....let’s keep it basic.
Like I said, psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition.
Certain foods and daily habits may actually promote inflammation in the body.
For instance, red meat and some dairy products contain a polyunsaturated fatty acid that may promote inflammation. So, LIMIT consumption!
Gluten. SOME patients with psoriasis may have increased markers for gluten sensitivity. Do you have a hard time digesting breads, pasta, baked goods, or beer?!? If so, LIMIT consumption!
Smoking and drinking. Definite inflammatory boosters. Definitely LIMIT participation.
If you’ve made it to 2020 and haven’t heard about the benefits of fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, and heart-healthy oils, where have you been? All of the above provide that anti-inflammatory benefit that will be sure to COMPLEMENT your treatment regimen.
I’ve seen the devastating effects that a quarantine bender can have on well-controlled psoriasis and IT STINKS. All of the treatments in the world will provide underwhelming benefits if diet and lifestyle are neglected.
So, with all of that being said, my advice to you is simple.
Be realistic.
Don’t torture yourself.
Moderation is key.
Eat more good than bad.
I promise. It’s worth it!