Psoriasis is a condition that causes the body to make new skin cells in days rather than weeks. It results in thick, scaly patches that often appear on the knees, elbows, lower back, scalp, nails, and joints. The condition is common in seniors, often developing over 60. Though there is currently no cure for psoriasis, there are certain treatments and lifestyle adjustments to help aid symptoms – and diet is one of them. Let’s explore the connection between diet and psoriasis and what foods can help or hurt your condition.

How Are Diet and Psoriasis Connected?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease caused by your immune system’s over-active inflammatory response. While your diet doesn’t directly cause psoriasis, it can affect your symptoms since some foods are known to cause (or reduce) inflammation.

If you’re a senior with psoriasis, it’s essential to be mindful of your diet and consider working with a healthcare professional to identify any specific dietary triggers that may aggravate your symptoms.

Psoriasis-Friendly Foods

Surprisingly, the best way to reduce inflammation is not with medicine but with the foods you eat. The key to a psoriasis-friendly diet is anti-inflammatory foods, which can reduce psoriasis flare-ups or make your symptoms less severe.

• Fatty fish such as salmon, herring, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and striped bass are rich in fatty acids that are metabolized into compounds called resolvins and protectins, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
• Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C like oranges, strawberries, kiwis, papayas, guavas, grapefruits, mangoes, tomatoes, and bell and chili peppers. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps combat cellular wear and tear, which can trigger inflammation.
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) contain antioxidants called anthocyanins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory effects.
• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale contain antioxidants that reduce levels of certain inflammation-causing molecules.
• Mushrooms like truffles, portobellos, and shiitakes contain phenols and other anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
• Pick-me-ups like coffee, tea, and dark chocolate. These contain polyphenols, naturally occurring compounds that protect the body from inflammation.

Always consult your doctor before beginning a new diet.

Foods to Avoid

On top of making psoriasis symptoms worse, many inflammatory foods also increase your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions. Avoid these:

• Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and pasta, have been stripped of fiber and whole grains and tend to contain a lot of sugar, which can lead to a spike in blood sugar levels.
• High-fat dairy like whole milk and cheese can cause inflammation, especially in those who are lactose intolerant.
• Excessive alcohol can lead to long-term inflammation in your liver if you drink heavily or regularly. It can also negatively impact your gut health, leading to colon and intestine inflammation.
• Saturated and trans fats increase the amount of low-density lipoprotein (‘bad’ cholesterol) in your blood. Avoid red meat, fried foods, fast food, and processed snacks like potato chips as much as possible.
• Added sugars – like those found in soda, candies, and baked goods – can lead to increased levels of inflammatory proteins called cytokines.

How Grand Oaks Can Help

Grand Oaks Senior Living offers restaurant-style dining crafted by Executive Chef Andrew Conlin. Residents enjoy mouth-watering gourmet menus using garden-fresh seasonal vegetables and organic ingredients with their health and well-being in mind. We use only choice cuts of fresh meats and seafood, and all foods are prepared with zero trans-fat using olive and canola oils.

Interested in experiencing Grand Oaks’ exquisite dining for yourself? Schedule a tour today!