Naturopath's Answer
Psoriasis is a chronic hyperproliferative skin disorder characterised by dry, well defined, silver, scaling papules and plaques. This condition is most commonly found on the elbows, knees, trunk, scalp or genitals. There are many reasons behind this condition and it is most commonly linked to digestive insufficiencies (decreased protein metabolism), acidity, nervous conditions, Candida, liver function and immunity.
You sound like you have many complications which are contributing to the severity of your condition and it is appropriate that you should continue under the care of a professional healthcare provider and heed their advice.
You seem to be doing most things that I would advice, however here are some additional recommendations:
• Organic Flaxseed oil - 10ml daily (can be added to smoothies, drizzled on vegies, salad, cereal etc- do not heat the oil). Flaxseed oil should help to provide the skin with nourishing oils and to provide a protective barrier to the skin to reduce inflammation.
• Continue to take a Zinc supplement as it is an important mineral for the healing of the skin, it is also an anti-inflammatory.
• Continue to take Probiotics.
• Try to get 20 minutes of gentle sunshine a day or continue with Vitamin D supplement.
• Reduce alcohol consumption (or have a break completely). If you continue to drink choose wine or quality spirits rather than beer as it contains less sugars.
• Reduce sugar consumption as sugar is the leading cause of inflammation. Sugar will also feed a candida situation if there is one present. Many people with skin conditions find that reducing an infestation of candida dramatically improves the skin inflammation.
• Increase alkalising foods such as sprouts, water, lemon juice, vegetable juices, brown rice, soups, green barley powder, fish and fruits and vegetables. Reduce acidic foods which feed inflammation such as red meats, alcohol, tea, coffee, soft drinks, sugar, dairy, wheat, preserved and processed foods.
• Eat foods as close to their whole, natural state. Wholegrain, legumes, fruit and veg, nuts and seeds, lean meat and fish - unprocessed and organic wherever possible.
• At least 2 litres of water per day (more if it is hot or you are exercising/ perspiring more).
• Continue to take a fish oil supplement to replenish and moisturise the skin from within. Fish oils also contain potent anti-inflammatory effects.
• If you feel that this problem is exacerbated by stress, consider taking a B Vitamin supplement to support the adrenals and nervous system so that anxiety does not contribute to the condition.
The information presented on this page has been prepared by a fully qualified naturopath and is for educational purposes only. It does not take into consideration your specific circumstances and is not intended to replace the services of a health practitioner. Any application of the material in this text is at the reader’s discretion and sole responsibility. If you have a persistent health condition or your symptoms are severe please consult a qualified healthcare provider.