How Gluten May Influence Psoriasis and What You Can Do About It
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to inflamed, scaly patches on the skin. While genetics and immune system dysfunction play key roles, emerging research suggests that diet, specifically gluten consumption, may influence psoriasis symptoms in some individuals. If you have psoriasis and suspect gluten sensitivity, here’s what you need to know.
The Link Between Gluten and Psoriasis
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Some people with psoriasis may have increased sensitivity to gluten, even if they do not have celiac disease. Studies have shown that psoriasis patients are more likely to have gluten-related disorders, such as:
- celiac disease
- non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)
This connection is partly due to increased intestinal permeability, or “leaky gut,” which may allow gluten proteins to trigger immune responses that worsen psoriasis flare-ups.
Additionally, gluten sensitivity can lead to systemic inflammation, a key driver of psoriasis. Inflammatory markers such as:
- tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)
- interleukin-17 (IL-17)
which are elevated in both psoriasis and gluten intolerance, may exacerbate symptoms when gluten is consumed.
How to Determine If Gluten Affects Your Psoriasis
If you suspect gluten may be worsening your psoriasis, consider the following steps:
- Try an Elimination Diet: Remove gluten from your diet for at least four to six weeks and track changes in your skin condition.
- Get Tested for Celiac Disease: A doctor can perform blood tests or an intestinal biopsy to check for celiac disease.
- Monitor Other Symptoms: In addition to skin flare-ups, gluten sensitivity can cause digestive issues, fatigue, headaches, and joint pain.
What You Can Do to Reduce Gluten Exposure
If gluten appears to worsen your psoriasis, you can take these steps to minimize its impact:
- Adopt a Gluten-Free Diet: Focus on whole, naturally gluten-free foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and gluten-free grains like quinoa and rice.
- Read Food Labels: Many processed foods contain hidden gluten, so always check ingredient lists.
- Consider Nutritional Support: Vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics may help support gut health and reduce inflammation.
To learn more, check out this summary from Mayo Clinic.
While not everyone with psoriasis will benefit from a gluten-free diet, some individuals may experience significant symptom relief by eliminating gluten. If you suspect gluten is a trigger, working with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian can help determine the best dietary approach for you. Understanding your body’s response to gluten could be a crucial step toward managing psoriasis and improving your overall well-being.
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