Supplements + Vitamins for Psoriasis: A Comprehensive Guide
While there is no cure for psoriasis, certain vitamins, and supplements may help alleviate symptoms and improve overall skin health. In this guide, we'll explore the best psoriasis supplements and how they can benefit those with this condition.
Vitamins for Psoriasis: Which Are Most Effective?
Supplements are an essential component for treating psoriasis. There are many vitamins for psoriasis that will help you in your battle against this skin condition.
Vitamin D
Psoriasis patients tend to develop deficiencies in Vitamin D, which plays a vital role in regulating the immune system. Taking a vitamin D supplement or getting more sunlight exposure can help improve symptoms. Our Skin Condition Support Supplement contains 1000% of your recommended daily amount. Other sources include egg yolks, liver, oily fish, and red meat. Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient for overall skin health that can help reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier function, both of which are important for managing psoriasis symptoms. It's important to talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosage of vitamin D for your individual needs.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids (known as DHA and EPA) are another supplement that may help alleviate psoriasis symptoms. These healthy fats are found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in flaxseeds and chia seeds. Omega-3s have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help improve psoriasis symptoms. If you don't eat enough omega-3-rich foods, consider taking a supplement. Studies have shown Omega 3 can improve the redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. These fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. Supplements are typically in a liquid, capsule, or pill form. We recommend Vitabiotics Ultra Omega-3 Fish Oils Capsules. These supplements have an orange-flavoured shell, perfect for those put off by the taste of traditional fish oil.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, as well as in supplement form. While research on the effects of probiotics on psoriasis is limited, some studies suggest that they may help reduce inflammation and improve gut health, which can in turn improve skin health.
A probiotic supplement promotes healthy intestinal microflora which seems to be lacking in allergy-prone individuals. We love Nu U Bio-Cultures Probiotics. These supplements contain 5 active strains, as well as being high-strength at 10 billion CFUS.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit those with psoriasis. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve skin health. You can add turmeric to your diet by using it as a spice in cooking or taking it in supplement form. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements, as they may interact with other medications or health conditions.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a plant that has been used for centuries to treat liver and gallbladder problems, but it also has benefits for those with psoriasis. The active ingredient in milk thistle, silymarin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. Taking a milk thistle supplement can help support liver function and reduce inflammation. We recommend Nature’s Aid DigestEeze Milk Thistle.
Other Vitamins for Psoriasis
- Glutamine- Glutamine is an amino acid that is produced naturally in the body and is essential for a variety of bodily processes. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are necessary for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues throughout the body. Glutamine has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the inflammation and redness associated with psoriasis. Glutamine powder can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected skin. When taken orally, it is typically mixed into a beverage or food. Some individuals may choose to apply glutamine powder directly to the skin as a paste. While there is no standard dosage for glutamine powder in the treatment of psoriasis, most doctors recommend starting with a small dose and gradually increasing it over time.
- Allicin- Allicin is bursting with antioxidants and essential vitamins to treat psoriasis. It is most commonly taken in capsule form, but allicin can also be found in garlic. Allicin, a sulfur-containing compound, is released when fresh garlic is crushed or chopped. It is known for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for those managing psoriasis symptoms.
- Zinc- Zinc is a mineral that plays a crucial role in immune function and skin health. Studies have shown that people with psoriasis often have low levels of zinc, and taking a zinc supplement can help improve symptoms and support overall health. Our Skin Condition Support Supplements contain 100% of your RDA.
- Berberine- In recent years, the potential benefits of berberine in managing psoriasis have garnered attention within the medical community. Berberine is a natural compound found in various plants, such as goldenseal, barberry, and Chinese goldthread. Widely used in traditional medicine, berberine has displayed promising anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. One study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science examined the effects of berberine on psoriasis-like skin inflammation in mice. The researchers found that berberine significantly reduced the inflammatory response by suppressing the production of inflammatory cytokines. It also inhibited the abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes, a hallmark characteristic of psoriasis.
- Neem- Neem, scientifically known as Azadirachta indica, is a tree native to the Indian subcontinent and boasts a long history of traditional medicinal use. Its leaves, bark, and oil have been treasured in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medical system, for their potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties Neem is a natural herbal remedy used to help repair the gut lining associated with Leaky Gut Syndrome. We love Pure Nutrition Neem Capsules, a high-strength formula offering 700mg of neem extract.
- Vitamin K- Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin known for its crucial role in blood clotting. However, recent research has showcased its broader therapeutic potential, including in dermatological conditions like psoriasis. Some studies suggest that vitamin K may help control inflammation by modulating various signaling pathways involved in this process. It is believed that vitamin K's anti-inflammatory properties could potentially benefit individuals with psoriasis, making it an intriguing area for further investigation. Our supplements contain 100% of your recommended daily amount. Vitamin K can also be found in green vegetables, fish, meat, eggs, and cereals.
- Folic Acid- Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9 is associated with a protein called homocysteine. Low levels of folic acid are linked with high levels of homocysteine, which leads to inflammation. Our supplements contain 120% of your recommended daily amount.
- Aloe Vera- Aloe vera has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions, and studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis. Taking an aloe vera supplement or applying aloe vera gel topically can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
- Magnesium- Magnesium can be used to treat roughness and skin inflammation. Magnesium decreases stress + anxiety, which are triggers for psoriasis. Our supplements contain magnesium, but not your full recommended daily allowance. Food sources include green vegetables, nuts, brown rice, fish, meat, and wholegrain bread.
- Selenium- Selenium is a key mineral and nutrient. We only need low levels for optimal health (55mg). Our supplements contain 100% of your recommended daily amount. Psoriasis sufferers tend to have low levels of this mineral. Selenium helps calm the immune system and reduce inflammation.
- Shark Cartilage- Shark cartilage is made from shark bones and is high in calcium. It is available to purchase in powder or capsule form. One theory is that shark cartilage can slow the growth of blood vessels, promoting the healing of psoriasis. However, there is very little evidence to support this.
- Vitamin A- Research suggests psoriasis sufferers have less Vitamin A content in their skin than the general population. Food sources include greens, egg yolks, sweet potato, and avocado. Our supplements contain 100% of your recommended daily amount.
- Biotin- Biotin is also known as Vitamin B7. Research on the relationship between biotin and psoriasis is still in its early stages, and no definitive conclusions have been drawn. However, some studies suggest that biotin may play a beneficial role in managing the symptoms of this skin condition. One study conducted on mice found that biotin supplementation reduced the severity of psoriasis-like skin inflammation. Another study on human subjects with psoriasis found that individuals with lower levels of biotin had more severe symptoms. Our supplements contain 100% of your recommended daily biotin. Although a deficiency is rare, biotin is key for good skin health.
- Vitamin C- Increased levels of Vitamin C help control oxidation, which occurs when the body has an imbalance from fighting free radical activity. Drought Skin Condition Support has 100% of your recommended daily amount. Studies have shown that increasing Vitamin C consumption can significantly reduce psoriasis symptoms (Reference 1).
Which supplements you take, and if you take them every day is a personal choice. Experiment and find what works best for you.
An example typical daily supplement schedule:
Every morning on an empty stomach
- Neem Supplements – 1-3 capsules dependent on strength, always read the label
- Probiotics- 1 capsule (or capful if you are using a liquid variety)
- Anti-Histamine- 1 tablet
Lunchtime:
- Psoriasis Super Smoothie (recipe here)
- Skin Condition Support Supplement- purchase page here
- Milk Thistle- 1-2 capsules depending on the strength. You may wish to up the dose if you are drinking alcohol that day, or have it the day before.
Before bed:
- Omega 3-6-9- 1 capsule- An Omega 3-6-9 capsule contains a powerful combination of fish oil, flaxseed oil, and sunflower oil.
- Evening Primrose Oil- 1 capsule
Where more than one dose of a supplement is recommended, start out with just one dose and increase it slowly. They can cause upset stomachs in some sufferers. If you believe you have a vitamin deficiency, it is important to discuss it with your doctor, who can confirm via a blood test. Always check with your doctor before starting a new nutritional routine, particularly if you are taking any medication.
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Wong AP, Kalinovsky T, Niedzwiecki A, Rath M. Efficacy of nutritional treatment in patients with psoriasis: A case report. Exp Ther Med. 2015
