Consuming substantial amounts of protein derived from plant-based origins appears to alleviate the severity of psoriasis. This is the conclusion reached by researchers at King’s College London, with their findings being published in the journal EJN.
Psoriasis is a persistent inflammatory skin condition whose severity can range from minor rashes to widespread lesions. While it is established that dietary choices and body weight impact how the disease progresses, the precise function of specific macronutrients has remained somewhat obscure until now.
Two hundred fifty-seven individuals diagnosed with psoriasis participated in the study. The specialists meticulously assessed their dietary intake and correlated the composition of their nutrition with their self-reported assessment of the disease’s severity.
The analysis revealed that, on average, participants consumed excessive quantities of “free sugars” and insufficient fiber. Subjects who reported the highest proportion of sugar intake specifically from beverages were more likely to describe their psoriasis as severe. However, this correlation diminished once the body mass index (BMI) was factored into the equation.
After adjusting for BMI, the experts identified a renewed association between the source of protein and the severity profile of the illness. A high proportion of protein sourced from meat was linked to an increased likelihood of severe psoriasis, while conversely, a greater intake of protein from vegetable sources correlated with a reduced chance of experiencing pronounced symptoms.
The authors emphasize that this study is observational in nature and does not establish definitive cause-and-effect relationships. Nevertheless, the outcomes strongly suggest a potential role for a plant-forward diet in mitigating the symptoms associated with this condition.
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