Psoriasis & Nutrition: What Helps in Everyday Life

Reddish, often silvery, scaly patches of skin on the elbows, knees or scalp are among the typical signs of psoriasis. The condition follows a chronic course, coming in flare-ups, and affects far more than just the skin. In this guide you will read how it develops, when it should be looked after medically and what role nutrition and everyday habits play for your well-being.

What lies behind psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory condition in which the immune system plays a central role. Put simply, the skin cells renew themselves much faster than normal. While the skin usually takes several weeks to renew itself, with psoriasis this happens within a few days. As a result, cells pile up on the surface and form the typical scaly, often reddened patches.

The engine behind this is a misguided inflammatory process: certain immune cells are overactive and release increased amounts of messenger substances that drive the skin cells to divide rapidly. This inflammation also explains why psoriasis does not stop at the skin surface but can affect the whole body and often occurs together with other metabolic and vascular issues. It is therefore less a purely skin-related problem than a systemic condition that shows itself above all on the skin.

The condition has a clear hereditary component. Whether and how strongly it appears additionally depends on triggers. These include stress, infections, certain medications, skin injuries, smoking, being overweight and, for some people, alcohol. Psoriasis is not contagious. It runs in flare-ups, meaning that phases with stronger symptoms alternate with calmer periods. Besides the skin, the joints can also be affected.

Psoriasis is not only a question of the skin but affects the person as a whole. Visible patches on the hands, face or scalp can be emotionally burdensome and influence self-esteem. Many of those affected describe that stress and tension intensify the flare-ups, which can easily lead into a vicious circle. This makes an understanding approach to oneself all the more important. Knowing that this is a well-researched, common condition that many people live with can also be a relief and direct one's attention toward one's own options for action.

When you should have it medically checked

Psoriasis fundamentally belongs in specialist, usually dermatological, care, because the appropriate treatment is determined individually. Seek medical advice if suspicious skin changes appear for the first time, if existing patches spread or worsen, if itching, pain or skin fissures are a considerable burden, or if joints hurt, swell or are stiff in the morning, as this may indicate joint involvement. A appointment is also important with extensive skin involvement, with signs of a skin infection such as weeping, pus and fever, or with severe emotional strain. The following notes on nutrition and everyday life are intended as support, not as a substitute for medical treatment.

What you can do in everyday life

A good approach to triggers and consistent skin care form the everyday basis. Dry skin tends to become irritated more easily, which is why regular, rich moisturising with replenishing care products is helpful. Mild, soap-free washing products and short showers that are not too hot additionally protect the skin. After showering the skin is especially receptive, a good moment for applying cream.

Because stress is a frequent trigger of flare-ups, it is worth providing relief, for example with relaxation techniques, sufficient sleep and exercise in the fresh air. Many people find moderate sunlight pleasant, but overly strong sun and sunburn should be avoided. Giving up smoking and a conscious approach to alcohol take the strain off the body. A healthy body weight also plays a role, since being overweight can promote inflammatory processes in the body. Scratching often worsens the patches, which is why a gentle approach to itchy areas and well-kept, short fingernails help.

It can be helpful to observe your own flare-ups over a few weeks and note down what preceded them: a stressful period, an infection, little sleep or particular strains. In this way personal patterns can be recognised and, over time, defused more specifically.

Nutrition that supports

There is no fixed psoriasis diet, but a balanced, rather anti-inflammatory diet supports general well-being and a healthy weight. A Mediterranean-style pattern with plenty of vegetables, fruit, legumes, wholegrain products, nuts and high-quality oils such as olive oil has proven its worth.

Oily sea fish, linseed oil and walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids, which fit well into such a diet. Colourful vegetables and berries contribute secondary plant compounds that can help protect the cells. Highly processed products, a lot of sugar, large amounts of saturated fats and a high alcohol consumption, on the other hand, are better kept in the background. Some people notice individual intolerances; here a food diary can help. Drinking enough, above all water and unsweetened teas, rounds the whole thing off.

Because being overweight can promote inflammatory processes in the body, a healthy body weight also plays a role from a nutritional point of view. A high-fibre, plant-focused diet keeps you full for longer and supports a stable weight in a pleasant way, without strict prohibitions. One-sided elimination or extreme diets, by contrast, are not advisable, as they can lead to deficiencies and are rarely sustainable. A relaxed, permanently workable pattern makes more sense. Anyone who is unsure can consult qualified nutritional advice that takes everyday life with the condition into account.

Nutrients & plants with a connection

For skin and cell protection there are nutrients with approved EU functions. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin A and biotin contribute to the maintenance of normal skin. Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of the skin and to the protection of the cells from oxidative stress. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) and niacin likewise contribute to the maintenance of normal skin.

In addition, selenium and copper contribute to the protection of the cells from oxidative stress, and selenium additionally to the normal function of the immune system. The omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA contribute, according to EU statements, to normal heart function, and DHA additionally to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision. These statements describe general bodily functions and do not refer to the skin or to a condition. They are not healing claims.

Living with the condition

Because psoriasis runs a chronic course and comes in flare-ups, dealing with it is also a question of attitude. Calmer phases can be used to gather strength, and during flare-ups it helps to be lenient with oneself instead of putting oneself under additional pressure. Many of those affected find exchanging experiences with others to be a relief, whether in their personal environment or in self-help groups. Visible skin changes can be burdensome in contact with other people; here it often helps to deal with them openly and matter-of-factly and to remind oneself that the condition is not contagious. A firm but uncomplicated care and everyday routine provides security and makes dealing with the condition easier. And, not least: consistent cooperation with the treating team remains the foundation on which all everyday measures build.

Honestly put into perspective

Psoriasis cannot be got rid of through nutrition or individual nutrients. It is a chronic condition whose treatment takes place individually and with medical guidance. What you can do yourself has a supporting effect: a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet, a healthy weight, consistent skin care, less stress and giving up smoking. These factors influence general well-being and can make everyday life with the condition more pleasant. Exaggerated promises of a cure should be treated with caution. The most reliable basis remains close cooperation with your doctor.

Suitable products from Scheunengut

If you would like to supplement your diet specifically with certain nutrients, our range includes, among other things, combinations with omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and folic acid. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function, and folic acid to normal blood formation. These statements refer to general bodily functions and not to a condition. Food supplements replace neither a balanced diet nor medical treatment.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is psoriasis contagious?

No. Psoriasis is not contagious. It arises through an interplay of predisposition, immune system and individual triggers and is not transmitted from person to person.

Can nutrition influence psoriasis?

There is no special diet. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet and a healthy weight can support general well-being and complement medical treatment.

Which triggers are typical?

Common triggers for flare-ups are stress, infections, certain medications, skin injuries, smoking, being overweight and, for some people, alcohol.

Why is skin care so important?

Dry skin tends more strongly toward irritation. Regular, rich moisturising with replenishing products and mild cleansing help to support the skin barrier.

Does body weight play a role?

Yes. Being overweight can promote inflammatory processes in the body. Supporting a healthy weight through a balanced, plant-focused diet is therefore a sensible building block in everyday life.

Which nutrients are relevant for the skin?

Zinc and vitamin A contribute to the maintenance of normal skin, vitamin C to normal collagen formation for a normal skin function, and vitamin D as well as zinc to the normal function of the immune system.

When should I see a doctor?

With first-time or worsening skin changes, severe itching, pain, as well as with swollen or stiff joints, you should seek dermatological or medical advice.