Fasting's impact on psoriasis relief
In the realm of dermatology, a growing area of interest is the potential connection between fasting and psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterised by red, scaly patches on the skin. While the evidence is not yet definitive, research suggests that certain dietary interventions may help manage psoriasis symptoms.
Intermittent fasting (IF), a method of food intake restriction, shows promise in improving glucose and insulin levels, increasing insulin sensitivity, and lowering hemoglobin A1C. It has also been linked to reduced diabetes medication usage and improved glycemic control, making it a potential ally in managing conditions associated with psoriasis, such as type 2 diabetes [1].
One study followed a group of 37 people with psoriatic arthritis who fasted from sunrise to sunset for one month during Ramadan. The results showed that fasting significantly improved disease activity scores, muscle inflammation, and dactylitis [2]. Another study involving 108 people with stable moderate-to-severe psoriasis during Ramadan showed a significant reduction in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index after the month-long observance period [3].
However, it's important to note that the current evidence on using fasting specifically for the treatment of psoriasis is limited. Larger, randomized controlled trials are needed to assess the impact of fasting on psoriasis fully [1][3][5].
While fasting may potentially lead to weight loss, which can indirectly benefit psoriasis management due to its link with the condition's severity and treatment response, there is not enough evidence to recommend that people use fasting to help symptoms of psoriasis [3][5]. A low calorie diet used for weight reduction in people who are overweight or have obesity can result in reductions in psoriasis severity, and the medical board strongly recommends weight reduction in these cases [4].
General dietary advice for psoriasis patients emphasizes prioritizing anti-inflammatory foods and identifying personal triggers through elimination diets rather than endorsing fasting explicitly [1]. Patients interested in fasting should consult healthcare professionals to ensure nutritional adequacy and safety [5].
It's crucial to remember that certain groups of people should avoid fasting, including children and adolescents, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people older than 75, those with an active infection or diabetes, and people with eating disorders. A registered dietician can help with a detailed personalized diet strategy for fasting [5].
In summary, while fasting is not yet a widely established or specifically recommended treatment for psoriasis, related dietary restrictions that reduce calorie intake and inflammation may help manage symptoms. Further clinical research is needed to confirm fasting's direct effects on psoriasis [1][3][5]. It is always important to consult a doctor when considering a diet change, especially fasting for psoriasis, as they can monitor any resulting weight loss or changes in psoriasis symptoms and severity, and make adjustments to medications if needed.
- The connection between fasting and psoriasis, a skin condition, is gaining attention in the field of dermatology, though the evidence is currently incomplete.
- Intermittent fasting, a method of food intake restriction, could potentially improve symptoms of psoriasis due to its effects on glucose and insulin levels.
- Some research indicates that fasting during Ramadan may help improve disease activity scores and reduce inflammation for those with psoriatic arthritis.
- However, larger studies are needed to fully understand fasting's impact on psoriasis and to evaluate if it can be recommended as a treatment.
- While fasting may lead to weight loss, which could indirectly benefit psoriasis management, a low-calorie diet specifically for weight reduction is more strongly recommended for managing psoriasis symptoms in overweight or obese individuals.
- For patients considering fasting, consultations with healthcare professionals are essential to ensure nutritional adequacy and safety, especially for certain groups such as children, pregnant women, and those with eating disorders.
- In addition to considering fasting, psoriasis patients should follow general dietary advice, such as prioritizing anti-inflammatory foods and identifying personal triggers, and consult a doctor before making any significant diet changes.
