Could the contents of your plate be the secret trigger to your psoriasis flare-ups?

Story Snapshot

• Ultra-processed foods and certain dietary choices worsen psoriasis.
• New research underscores diet’s role in managing this chronic condition.
• Experts emphasize the importance of anti-inflammatory diets.
• Personalized dietary interventions could improve patient outcomes.

Psoriasis and Dietary Triggers

Psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches, has long challenged both patients and healthcare providers. Traditionally, its management has relied heavily on topical and systemic medications, with diet considered a secondary factor. However, recent studies and patient experiences suggest that what you eat may significantly influence the severity of psoriasis flare-ups. Ultra-processed foods, high-fat dairy, red and processed meats, sugar, alcohol, and even some vegetables have come under scrutiny for their potential to exacerbate symptoms.

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A comprehensive study conducted by the NutriNet-Santé cohort in France from 2021 to 2022 collected extensive dietary and health data. The results have been eye-opening, showing a clear correlation between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and the frequency and intensity of psoriasis flare-ups. Unlike previous assumptions, these findings suggest that dietary triggers operate independently of factors like obesity or BMI, making the dietary management of psoriasis a standalone and crucial aspect of treatment.

Dietitians flag the worst foods and drinks for Psoriasis. https://t.co/PDoxmzPeC3 #psoriasis pic.twitter.com/3rsXlb8iC8

— Timothy Holman (@itstimholman) October 30, 2025

The Role of Inflammatory Foods

The modern Western diet, characterized by high levels of ultra-processed foods, saturated fats, and sugars, is increasingly recognized as pro-inflammatory. These dietary components are believed to disrupt the gut microbiome and trigger inflammatory responses, worsening autoimmune conditions like psoriasis.

High-fat dairy products, red and processed meats, sugar, and alcohol are particularly notorious for their inflammatory effects. These foods, often rich in saturated fats and high on the glycemic index, can lead to increased inflammation and immune modulation, processes that are detrimental to individuals with psoriasis. Replacing these with anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins may offer a promising path to better manage the condition.

Personalized Dietary Interventions

While general dietary guidelines can be beneficial, experts emphasize the need for personalized dietary interventions. Not all psoriasis patients respond the same way to specific foods. For instance, nightshade vegetables and gluten can trigger symptoms in some individuals but not others. This variability necessitates a more nuanced approach to dietary recommendations, one that takes into account individual responses and preferences.

Recent research from King’s College London and other esteemed institutions has further validated the importance of diet in managing psoriasis. These studies highlight that plant-rich, low-saturated fat diets are linked to reduced psoriasis severity. As such, healthcare providers are increasingly incorporating dietary counseling into their clinical care, offering patients a more comprehensive approach to managing their condition.

Implications for Patients and Providers

The growing body of evidence linking diet to psoriasis severity presents both challenges and opportunities. In the short term, patients who modify their diets can experience improved symptom control and a better quality of life. Long-term implications include the potential reduction in disease severity, healthcare costs, and comorbidities associated with chronic inflammation.

Sources:

Medical News Today
Altitude Dermatology
Today’s Dietitian
GoodRx
PMC
APDerm