Psoriasis Diet: What to Eat and Avoid to Reduce Flares

When you have psoriasis, a chronic skin condition marked by red, scaly patches caused by an overactive immune system. It's not just a skin issue—it's a whole-body inflammation problem. And while meds help, what you eat plays a huge role in how often and how badly your skin flares up. Many people don’t realize that certain foods can turn up the heat on inflammation, while others act like a quiet reset button for your immune system.

Inflammatory foods, like processed meats, sugary snacks, and refined carbs, are common triggers. Studies show that people who cut out these foods often see fewer plaques and less itching. On the flip side, anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, and berries, help calm the immune response. Omega-3s in salmon and flaxseeds, for example, are proven to reduce skin cell overgrowth linked to psoriasis. Even simple swaps—like choosing olive oil over butter or water over soda—can make a difference over time.

It’s not about perfection. You don’t need to go fully vegan or keto. But if you’re struggling with flares, tracking what you eat for a few weeks can reveal patterns. Did your elbows flare after a pizza night? Did your scalp improve after adding more spinach and walnuts? That’s the kind of insight that matters more than any generic diet plan. Also, watch out for alcohol, especially beer, which is linked to worse psoriasis outcomes. It doesn’t just dry your skin—it messes with your gut and immune balance.

There’s no one-size-fits-all psoriasis diet, but the pattern is clear: eat real food, avoid junk, and listen to your body. The posts below share real stories, food lists, and science-backed tips from people who’ve turned their plates into a tool for healing. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to fine-tune your routine, you’ll find practical advice that actually works—no fluff, no fads, just what helps.