If you are struggling with Psoriasis, you know it is more than just a skin condition—it is a reflection of what is happening inside your body. While stress is a major trigger that releases a chemical called IL-17 (causing skin cells to divide in 3-4 days instead of the usual 28 days), your diet acts as the fuel for this fire.
At my clinic in Akola, I often tell patients that while medicine heals the body, the right diet speeds up that healing. According to a 2020 study by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, patients who followed an anti-inflammatory diet saw their psoriasis severity drop by nearly 30%.
Here is a scientific, practical guide on what to eat and what to avoid to manage Psoriasis effectively.
1. Turmeric (Haldi): The Natural IL-17 Blocker
Turmeric contains Curcumin, a powerful agent that directly reduces IL-17. However, the body only absorbs about 1% of turmeric on its own.
The Smart Way to Take It:
- The Secret Ingredient: Always take turmeric with Black Pepper (Kali Mirch). The piperine in black pepper increases curcumin absorption by 2000%.
- How to consume: Mix half a spoon of turmeric with a pinch of black pepper in a glass of warm water every morning on an empty stomach. Alternatively, chew a 1-inch piece of raw turmeric with black pepper.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Your Internal Fire Extinguisher
Psoriasis is an inflammatory "fire". Omega-3 fatty acids help create anti-inflammatory compounds and keep your skin cell membranes healthy.
- Vegetarian Sources: One spoon of roasted Flaxseeds (Alsi), 4-5 Walnuts (Akhrot), or one spoon of Chia seeds daily.
- Non-Vegetarian Sources: Fatty fish like Bangda (Indian Mackerel), Tarli, or Salmon.
Important Tip: Do not deep-fry the fish; grill or steam it instead. Also, replace refined oils (sunflower/soybean) with Mustard oil (Kachi Ghani) or Coconut oil to reduce inflammation.
3. Papaya: The Skin Healer
Papaya is rich in Vitamins A, C, and E, which promote skin healing.
- How to eat: Consume one bowl of ripe papaya daily.
- When to avoid: Do not eat raw papaya. Avoid it if you are experiencing intense skin burning or redness, and do not mix it with milk.
Foods to Stop Immediately
To see results, you must stop feeding the inflammation. Avoid these "villains":
- Alcohol: This is the biggest trigger for Psoriasis flare-ups.
- Refined Sugar & Maida: Biscuits, white bread, and cakes increase body-wide inflammation. Switch to oats or brown rice.
- Mutton: Avoid red meat entirely; chicken can be eaten occasionally in small amounts.
- Junk Food: Strictly avoid outside food and late-night eating.
A Message for Patients in Akola and Beyond
Changing your lifestyle is the first step toward clear skin. While this diet will significantly reduce the intensity and spots of Psoriasis, it is not a complete cure on its own. Psoriasis requires a deep-acting treatment like Predictive Homoeopathy to address the root cause.
If you are in Akola or nearby areas like Washim, Amravati, or Buldhana, and are looking for a long-term solution for chronic Psoriasis, consistency is key. Follow this diet for at least 3 months to see a visible difference in your skin.
For personalized treatment, contact Dr. Shadab's Homoeopathy, Akola.