Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Psoriasis Management

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to build up, leading to scaling, inflammation, and redness. There's currently no cure, but that doesn't mean you have to suffer from it! With some diet and lifestyle changes, you can get your psoriasis under control and improve your overall quality of life. For help with managing your psoriasis in Panama City, Chipley, Panama City Beach, and Marianna, FL, book an appointment with the doctors at Dermatology Associates Skin and Cancer Center.

Managing Psoriasis Through Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet can help manage symptoms. Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce inflammation to improve your skin health. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants and vitamins - berries, leafy greens, carrots, and sweet potatoes are particularly good foods if you suffer from psoriasis. You can find your omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Refined grains can cause inflammation, so making the switch to whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats can be better choices. 

Certain foods can trigger psoriasis symptoms, so it can be very helpful if you're able to identify and avoid these triggers. Some trigger foods can include foods high in sugars, unhealthy fats, and additives, red meat, dairy, and gluten. If you need some guidance on managing your psoriasis through food in Panama City, Chipley, Panama City Beach, and Marianna, FL, book an appointment with the doctors at Dermatology Associates Skin and Cancer Center. 

Lifestyle Changes

Exercise isn't only good for improving your cardiovascular health and aiding in weight management - it can also improve psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation. Stress can be a big trigger for psoriasis, so incorporating stress-reducing practices can help manage your symptoms. Try practicing mindfulness or meditation, and deep breathing exercises. Exercising can also be a great stress reducer. 

Poor sleep can exacerbate psoriasis, so getting good sleep can reduce the frequency of flare-ups while improving your immune function and skin health. Try and aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep routine.

Lastly, proper skin care is crucial for managing psoriasis. Use a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in moisture, and make sure you're using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers when you take short, lukewarm baths. 

Book Your Appointment

There are so many things you can do to manage your psoriasis and turn it into a much more manageable condition, and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. To book a psoriasis management appointment in Panama City, Chipley, Panama City Beach, and Marianna, FL, call Dermatology Associates Skin and Cancer Center at (850) 769-7546 today.