World Psoriasis Day is observed every 29th of October annually. This year’s theme is “Mental Health” which aims to increase awareness of the challenges that people with psoriasis face in terms of their mental well-being and aims to improve access to treatment.
Psoriasis is a condition marked by skin rashes and is brought on by an overactive immune system. According to World Health Organization, psoriasis is an incurable, persistent, painful, disfiguring, and crippling noncommunicable disease (NCD) that can affect the skin, nails, and joints. It has a detrimental effect on the quality of life. Some people with the condition develop psoriatic arthritis, a chronic inflammatory arthritis that causes joint deformities and impairment.
People with psoriasis typically face stigma and are shunned in typical social settings. Psoriasis and mental health are connected in a number of ways. It affects the quality of life that sometimes can lead to depression and other emotional problems; hence this year’s theme is all about mental health.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for psoriasis. However, there are many ways to alleviate the severity of symptoms of psoriasis. Nutrition is one aspect. Some foods can aid in reducing or preventing inflammation in the body.
Anti-inflammatory foods are generally beneficial and nutritious, here is a list of anti-inflammatory foods:
- Fruits and veggies
- Leafy greens
- Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Herbs and spices that are high in antioxidants
- Heart-healthy sources of fat
And, there are also some foods that can make the inflammation worse. Hence, you should limit your consumption of these foods:
- Processed foods
- Refined sugars
- Fatty cuts of red meat
- Dairy
It is important to always keep an eye on what you eat and check to see if anything triggers you. Better seek the counsel of medical specialists, go in for routine checkups, and ask for guidance on your diet from Registered Nutritionist-Dietitians. (Development Management Officer II (PNFP) Lizelle L. Bete / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / 0963-1090-198)
References:
Noncommunicable diseases. (2016, October 26). Global report on psoriasis. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/global-report-on-psoriasis
What You Should Know About Psoriasis and Your Diet. (2017, March 8). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/psoriasis/psoriasis-avoid-foods
WORLD PSORIASIS DAY - October 29. (2022, May 13). National Day Calendar. https://nationaldaycalendar.com/world-psoriasis-day-october-29/
