Psoriasis is a widespread condition that affects about 1 in 30 people.
What causes psoriasis
Psoriasis is caused by a pile-up of skin cells that have replicated too rapidly (around a thousand times faster than normal), resulting in the characteristic silvery scale of the condition. Although there’s a strong genetic link, sufferers can make several changes to their diet that will help to alleviate the problem.
What food should people with psoriasis avoid
Beginning with food and drink; people with psoriasis should limit their intake of sugary foods, as these can fuel the overgrowth of Candida – a yeast that plays a significant role in causing psoriasis. Sufferers must also cut down on their consumption of meat and alcohol – both of which can elevate the level of psoriasis-linked toxins in the blood.
Foods to Eat for people who suffer from psoriasis
As for what they should consume, people with psoriasis need a wide range of vegetables (but not fruit – which can fuel Candida growth), and they should drink plenty of water. Vegetables are a great source of fibre, which binds with toxins, while water is great at flushing toxins out of the body. One specific nutrient found to help people who have psoriasis is Omega-3, which we can get from eating oily fish or flaxseed oil.
Is turmeric good for psoriasis?
Turmeric derives from the Curcuma longa plant a member of the ginger family. There has been much debate and discussion about the health benefits of this spice.
One of these benefits is the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric; which may ease (over time) the effects of psoriasis. People who use turmeric as an alternative medicine like to take it in tea, paste, or as a supplement.
Benefits of turmeric for joint pain and arthritis
Why not try my delicious soup below, which may go some way towards alleviating psoriasis?
Barbara’s Pumpkin, Parsnip and Ginger Soup
Ingredients:
- 500g Pumpkin (seeded & chopped)
- 3 Parsnips (chopped)
- 1 Onion (chopped)
- 2 Sticks of Celery (chopped)
- 1 Clove of Garlic
- 100g Fresh Root Ginger (chopped)
- 2 Yeast-free Stock Cubes
- 200ml Soya Cream
- Fresh Ground Pepper
- 1 ½ Pints Water
- 10ml Flaxseed Oil
Method for soup
Boil the stock, garlic, and pepper together and then add the vegetables and root ginger. Leave to simmer for 15 minutes. Add the cream and flaxseed oil and gently stir. Put in a blender and blend until smooth. (Serves 6)
Barbara Cox – is a top nutritionist at Nutrichef UK and is passionate about the benefits people get from eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.
