Inflammation is a major driver of psoriasis, and research suggests that eating anti-inflammatory foods may help reduce flare-ups. A registered dietitian shares insights on what an anti-inflammatory diet involves and how it can be used alongside medical treatments to support psoriasis management.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that triggers inflammation in the skin. When inflammation occurs, skin cells multiply more rapidly than normal, causing them to accumulate on the surface. This leads to thick, scaly patches that may be discolored, itchy, and painful.
Most medical treatments for psoriasis aim to control inflammation. Nutrition is another supportive strategy that may help lower inflammation throughout the body. While dietary changes cannot replace medication, an anti-inflammatory eating pattern may complement existing treatments. Below is an overview of how this approach works, along with guidance from an expert.
The link between inflammation and psoriasis
Inflammation underlies many health conditions, particularly autoimmune diseases. These conditions develop when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, persistent inflammation in psoriasis damages the skin and can also affect the nails and joints.
Ongoing research continues to explore connections between psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions, such as heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and diabetes.
Anti-inflammatory eating and psoriasis
An anti-inflammatory diet emphasizes foods that may help reduce inflammation in the body. These foods are typically minimally processed and closer to their natural form, allowing them to retain more fiber and antioxidants than heavily processed options.
Core elements of an anti-inflammatory diet include:
Healthy fats: Diets higher in omega-3 fatty acids are associated with lower inflammation. Sources include fatty fish, nuts, seeds, avocados, and plant-based oils such as olive oil.
Fiber: Much of the immune system resides in the gut. Supporting healthy gut bacteria may help reduce inflammation. Fiber-rich foods nourish beneficial bacteria and include fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Antioxidants: Free radicals contribute to inflammation in the body. Antioxidants help counteract these compounds. Less processed foods tend to be higher in antioxidants, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and certain teas and spices.
Research indicates that a Mediterranean-style diet is linked to less severe psoriasis. This eating pattern naturally includes many anti-inflammatory foods, such as fish and seafood for healthy fats, and plant-based foods that provide fiber and antioxidants.
Expert perspective: Anti-inflammatory diets explained
Emma Schillings (she/her) is a registered dietitian who works in primary care and private practice in Ontario, Canada. She supports individuals with a wide range of health conditions. Below are her insights on anti-inflammatory eating and psoriasis.
How do you explain inflammation to clients?
“Inflammation is the body’s normal way of healing and repairing tissue,” Schillings said. “If you’ve experienced a sunburn or an irritated cut, you’ve seen inflammation in action.”
She noted that inflammation is also referred to as oxidative stress, which occurs when free radicals damage small blood vessels.
“When inflammation becomes chronic, it increases the risk of many diseases,” she said. “These include psoriasis, diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver disease, cancer, depression, arthritis, and dementia.”
What is an anti-inflammatory diet?
“This eating pattern focuses on foods and nutrients that help reduce inflammation,” said Schillings. “It may be used both to manage existing conditions and to support disease prevention.”
How can it help with psoriasis?
“Psoriasis is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects the skin,” she explained. “An anti-inflammatory diet may reduce disease activity, which could mean fewer flare-ups or milder symptoms for some people.”
People with psoriasis may also be at higher risk for other inflammatory conditions, and this way of eating may help reduce those risks.
“This diet is widely considered balanced and health-promoting,” Schillings added. “It can improve overall nutrition and lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes.”
Which foods should be included?
Schillings often recommends a Mediterranean-style eating pattern.
“This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, legumes, whole grains, and fish,” she said. “Animal-based foods such as dairy, eggs, and beef are eaten in smaller amounts.”
She highlighted the benefits of plant-based foods. “They are rich in antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative damage, and they provide fiber and prebiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome.”
Healthy fats are another key component. “Fatty fish like salmon, trout, sardines, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids,” she said.
She also noted that certain herbs and spices have anti-inflammatory effects, including turmeric, rosemary, garlic, onion, thyme, oregano, cinnamon, pepper, sage, parsley, and ginger.
Are there foods to limit?
“I prefer helping people focus on what to include rather than what to avoid,” Schillings said.
However, she noted that some foods may increase inflammation. “It can be helpful to limit red meat, processed meats, and ultra-processed foods like soda, candy, chips, fast food, and ice cream.”
She emphasized flexibility. “All foods can fit into a healthy eating pattern. Moderation looks different for everyone.”
How can someone start an anti-inflammatory diet?
Schillings recommends making changes gradually.
“Begin by choosing one or two foods you don’t eat often and find ways to add them into your routine,” she said.
Her practical tips include:
Include at least one fruit or vegetable with every meal
Aim to eat a variety of colors each day
Plan one weekly meal using plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, or soy
Choose unsalted nuts and seeds for snacks
Make dressings at home using olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices
Select fish or seafood instead of red meat when eating out
Choose water over sugary drinks
She also encourages seeking support. “If making changes feels difficult, working with a registered dietitian can be very helpful.”
Can an anti-inflammatory diet replace treatment?
An anti-inflammatory diet should be viewed as one tool among many.
“Chronic and autoimmune diseases are influenced by both genetics and environment,” Schillings said. “This type of eating may help manage symptoms and support overall health, but it should not replace medical treatment.”
Key takeaway
Inflammation is central to autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis. Following an anti-inflammatory diet that includes omega-3 fats, fiber, and antioxidants may help reduce symptoms and lower the frequency of flare-ups.
However, psoriasis is a complex condition, and diet is only one part of management. Continuing prescribed treatments and maintaining regular follow-up with a healthcare provider remains essential.