Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that is characterized by the presence of silvery scales. Since it is a chronic condition, living with psoriasis can be frustrating as flare-ups occur. That’s why determining the triggers, decreasing inflammation and strengthening the skin’s integrity is very important. Conventional treatment recommends using topical and systemic anti-inflammatory medication to decrease the severity and duration of lesions. However, many of these treatments are not for long term use. Also, research has shown that changes in lifestyle and diet with conventional treatments have an even more beneficial impact rather than just doing one or the other. Let’s discuss how common health factors, when neglected, can aggravate psoriasis.

Stress

Emotional stress can trigger and exacerbate psoriasis. Patients with psoriasis believe that stress has a moderate to high impact on their skin condition, ranging from 37% to 78%. The body responds to stress by creating inflammation which can induce psoriasis (to those who are genetically predisposed to it) or exacerbate the condition, increasing the time needed to heal. Furthermore, stress-reducing activities, like meditating, relaxation, biofeedback, and other stress management therapies have been effective in reducing psoriasis in patients.

Natural stress management includes the use of herbs, dietary changes, nutraceuticals and lifestyle changes to help reduce stress and decrease the impact stress has on the body.

Nutrition Deficiencies

Nutrients play a major role in skin health. For instance, vitamin C is a valuable nutrient, needed to make collagen in the skin. In psoriasis, nutrient deficiencies can exacerbate psoriasis and correcting the deficiencies can help in decreasing the flare-ups. For instance, research has shown that people with psoriasis are commonly deficient in vitamin D and an oral and topical vitamin D can improve and suppress the lesions formed. Also, anti-inflammatory fish oils and antioxidant nutrients can also improve and suppress plaques.

Diet

Diet is another way naturopathic doctors can address and facilitate the healing that needs to happen for people living with psoriasis. There are various diets that have shown to be beneficial, like a gluten-free diet, anti-inflammatory diet, and a high-fat diet. With a thorough investigation, a custom diet can be created!

Herbal Support

Botanical & herbal medicine plays an important role in psoriasis. Many plants and herbs have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects that can have many beneficial impacts on psoriasis. For example, Mahonia aquifolium is a potent anti-inflammatory and research has shown benefit. Herbal support is customizable, with various herbs used in combination to address various health concerns.

Living with psoriasis can be difficult and frustrating. But long, sustainable health benefits are available with the help of naturopathic medicine. Book a free consultation and let me help you!