DIET AND EXERCISE

Man holding avocado for psoriasis Man holding avocado for psoriasis Man holding avocado for psoriasis

Talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Psoriasis starts inside your body, right? So, it makes sense that a thoughtful diet and exercise plan may help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. From knowing which foods can trigger your flare-ups to finding an exercise program that fits your lifestyle, improving your daily routines can be a great way to maintain a healthy way of life.

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Inflammation and Psoriasis

Take a deeper dive into the role inflammation may play in psoriasis.

See the Inflammation Story

Psoriasis Diet: Foods That Can Help Fight Inflammation

While there is little scientific evidence to support the idea that diet can impact psoriasis, some people with psoriasis have reported symptom relief from an anti-inflammatory diet, as well as losing weight, which may be a result of reduced systemic inflammation.

Foods that help fight inflammation:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Fish
  • Low-fat dairy products
  • Whole grains
  • Lean meats
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Foods that can contribute to inflammation:

  • Fatty red meat
  • Refined and processed foods
  • High-fat dairy foods
Fatty red meat, refined and processed foods, and high-fat dairy foods cause inflammation Fatty red meat, refined and processed foods, and high-fat dairy foods cause inflammation Fatty red meat, refined and processed foods, and high-fat dairy foods cause inflammation
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DIG DEEPER: Try keeping a food diary. It can help you track and sort which foods help and which to avoid when possible.

Exercise and Psoriasis

We don’t need to tell you exercise is good for your health—but consider this: obese psoriasis patients are more likely to have an increased severity of psoriasis. Plus, continuing to participate in the activities you already enjoy shows that psoriasis doesn’t define you. If you’re ready to get on the move, talk to your healthcare provider. Then try out some of these exercise tips specifically for people with psoriasis.

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Look good, feel good

When combined with sweat and movement, tight clothing can be irritating during a workout. Try wearing loose, breathable, or moisture-wicking materials.

No gym like home

If you’re not ready to hit the gym during a flare-up, that’s okay. Be prepared to exercise at home and keep the momentum going.

Get loose

Psoriatic arthritis can be linked with psoriasis. If you happen to have both, ample stretching before and after a workout can help reduce pain and improve range of motion.

Learn how Psoriasis and Stress are linked