Foods That Might Cause Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Research has yet to confirm a definitive link between diet and psoriasis flare-ups, but some people say that eliminating certain foods and drinks offers relief from symptoms.

While there’s no specific diet for psoriasis, some people with the condition find that what they eat affects how their skin looks and feels. This could be true, says Jerry Bagel, MD, dermatologist and director of the Psoriasis Treatment Center of Central New Jersey in East Windsor. It’s just that there is no scientific proof to back it up.

Still, Dr. Bagel says, if you find that something you eat or drink seems to aggravate your psoriasis symptoms, it can’t hurt to limit it or cut it from your diet. For instance, in a survey of more than 1,200 people with psoriasis published in May 2017 in Dermatology and Therapy, over half of respondents said they noticed improvement in their symptoms after reducing their intake of alcohol, gluten, and nightshades.

Foods to Avoid

In general, the National Psoriasis Foundation recommends eating an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. Limiting foods that promote inflammation is good for your overall health and may help you manage your psoriasis symptoms.

Tracking your symptoms and keeping a food journal can help you determine if certain foods may be triggering your psoriasis flares. If so, you might consider cutting them out of your diet one at a time. Wait a couple weeks to see if it has an effect on your symptoms before moving onto the next food. Don’t cut them out all at once, or you may not be able to tell which food is causing your flares. Work with your doctor or a registered dietitian before making changes to your diet to ensure your plan is reasonable and sustainable.

Here are eight foods and beverages that get mentioned often by people as possibly causing their psoriasis flare-ups.

Alcohol

“First and foremost, stop drinking,” Bagel says. Alcohol opens the blood vessels in the skin. When your blood vessels are dilated, white blood cells, including the T cells that are believed to be responsible for psoriasis, can sneak into the outer layers of your skin more easily.

“Your psoriasis symptoms may worsen even if you’re a light to moderate alcohol user,” says Chelsea Marie Warren, RD.

Junk food

Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition, and junk foods and other highly processed foods tend to be high in saturated and trans fats and refined starches and sugars, all of which can promote inflammation. They’re also calorie-dense and nutrient-light, which can contribute to weight gain—and people with psoriasis already have elevated cardiovascular risk.

Red meat

Red meats contain arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated fat that can be converted into inflammatory compounds. Processed meats like sausage and bacon may also be problematic.

Dairy products

Like red meat, dairy can contain arachidonic acid. Cow’s milk also contains casein, a protein linked to inflammation in some people. Egg yolks are high in arachidonic acid as well.

Nightshade plants

Some people report that nightshades—peppers, white potatoes, eggplant, tomatoes—worsen symptoms. These vegetables contain solanine, which may trigger pain in some individuals. Results vary; consider a short elimination trial if you suspect a link.

Citrus fruits

Citrus (grapefruit, oranges, lemons, limes) can be a common allergen. If you notice a connection between citrus intake and flares, try eliminating citrus and derivatives (like lemonade or grapefruit juice) to test your response.

Gluten

Some people with psoriasis may be sensitive to gluten. For those individuals, avoiding gluten could help. If you suspect gluten is a trigger, talk to your doctor about testing for celiac disease before removing gluten from your diet.

Condiments & spices

Some report issues with pimento, cinnamon, curry, vinegar, mayo, paprika, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Certain compounds may increase inflammation for some people—track your reactions and adjust accordingly.

The Bottom Line

Although research hasn’t confirmed a direct link between specific foods and psoriasis flares for everyone, you may find that symptoms improve when you avoid one or more of these items. Keep a food and symptom journal, make one change at a time, and share what you discover with your clinician to ensure you’re meeting your nutrition needs.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.