Beyond medication: investigating dietary and lifestyle adjustments in psoriasis management

Abstract

Patients with psoriasis often pursue complementary approaches, including dietary and lifestyle modifications, alongside medical treatments to alleviate their symptoms. The anti-inflammatory features of the Mediterranean Diet (MD) show promise in psoriasis management.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 205 psoriasis patients. A questionnaire was developed to assess dietary behaviors, lifestyle habits, and perceptions of patients. Adherence to MD was evaluated using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Scale (MEDAS).

A total of 71% of patients reported avoiding specific foods after diagnosis, most commonly spicy foods, nightshades, acidic beverages, salt or pickles, white flour, sweets, and fried foods. Among them, 52.4% reported symptom relief; however, no statistically significant impact on treatment response was observed. Patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis at baseline were more likely to use supplements (p = 0.015), primarily fish oil, vitamin D, and probiotics or yogurt. The Low-Calorie Diet (LCD) was the most commonly followed special diet (53.9%), while MD was associated with the highest perceived benefit (66.7%). Reported lifestyle changes after diagnosis included smoking cessation (13.6%), quitting alcohol consumption (10.2%), and starting regular exercise (28.8%). No statistically significant difference in disease severity or treatment response based on adherence to the MD.

This study examines dietary and lifestyle behaviors in psoriasis patients after diagnosis. Incorporating lifestyle assessments into routine care may contribute to more comprehensive psoriasis management. Further prospective controlled studies are needed to establish evidence-based guidelines.