A recent study found that psoriasis symptoms were associated with a higher intake of ultra-processed food, suggesting that these foods might promote inflammation in the body separate from the inflammation caused by excess weight.
For nutritional therapist Victoria Hamilton, The Autoimmunity Nutritionist, this research supports her experiences with the foods that help and hinder her psoriasis.
"I lived with psoriasis for over 15 years, during which it had a profound impact on my daily life," she told Newsweek. "I remember dreading summer because I didn't want to show my arms as it covered my elbows.
"There were times when the itchiness and discomfort made it hard to sleep, and social events became a source of anxiety."
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, she explained, leading to an overproduction of skin cells that causes thick, scaly patches on the skin, that can be red and inflamed.
"Psoriasis is far more than a skin condition; it's a systemic issue rooted in the immune system, influenced by factors such as genetics, stress, gut health and environmental triggers," said Hamilton.
Hamilton was told to "just manage" her condition, but she said that "didn't sit well" with her, so, "through years of research and trial and error," she discovered how external factors such as diet could affect her psoriasis symptoms.
"By addressing the root causes—healing my gut, reducing inflammation through dietary changes and managing stress—I was able to calm my immune system and, eventually, my skin," she said. "Today, I have been symptom-free for over nine years."
Hamilton now sees clients, who she helps address their own symptoms—including psoriasis and other autoimmune conditions—with nutrition.
That's not to say that dietary changed can "cure" psoriasis, or that eating more ultra-processed foods "cause" it.
The study on psoriasis and food, published on Wednesday, found an association between ultra-processed foods and whether participants were currently presenting symptoms—not whether or not they were diagnosed with the condition.
Autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis are fueled by the overaction of the immune system, and inflammation is part of that. Foods that promote inflammation in the body, as ultra-processed foods are believed to, may therefore contribute to more symptoms.
Experts disagree on the correct definition of "ultra-processed," but the most popular definition categorizes ultra-processed foods as products that are industrially manufactured using methods and ingredients that are not available to a home-cook, such as plumping agents, thickeners, emulsifiers, chemical additives and preservatives.
"Ultra-processed foods are a significant concern for psoriasis because they often drive the inflammation at the root of the condition," said Hamilton. "These foods—such as packaged snacks, sugary drinks, fast food and ready-made meals—are typically loaded with refined sugars, unhealthy fats and artificial additives.
"These ingredients disrupt the immune system, aggravating the inflammation that underpins psoriasis symptoms."
There were many reasons for this, she explained, including that ultra-processed foods could raise blood sugar levels and damage gut health, leading to higher levels of inflammation in the body.
"Reducing ultra-processed foods and prioritizing an anti-inflammatory, nutrient-dense diet can make a significant difference," said Hamilton.
She recommended prioritizing anti-inflammatory nutrients such as omega-3—found in oily fish, like salmon and mackerel, as well as some nuts and seeds—and antioxidants from colorful fruits and vegetables, particularly leafy greens, berries and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower.
Gut-supportive foods—such as Greek yogurt, bone broth and stewed apples—were important too, she said, for supporting the immune system and protecting the barrier between the gut and bloodstream.
"Many of my clients have experienced fewer psoriasis flare-ups and noticeable improvements in their skin by focusing on whole foods rich in omega-3s and antioxidants and restoring their digestive health," said Hamilton.
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Reference
Penso, L., Touvier, M., Srour, B., Ezzedine, K., Sbidian, E. (2024). Ultraprocessed Food Intake and Psoriasis, JAMA Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.4832
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