Welcome to Part 1 of our new blog series, its full title being “A Look at Autoimmune Diseases and Supplement-Driven Solutions.” Autoimmune diseases are those wherein the body’s immune system works against the body, causing health detriments. In this blog, we look at the ramifications of an autoimmune disease known as psoriasis, and discuss three of the best applicable supplements for relieving its symptoms and possibly even preventing its occurrence.
What Is Psoriasis?
Autoimmune diseases are health conditions characterized by an immune system which erroneously and harmfully works against your body instead of defending it. One of those unwanted conditions is psoriasis, which is an autoimmune condition that can cause unsightly and uncomfortable patchy rashes upon the skin. There are a few variations of psoriasis, and the most common if which is plaque psoriasis.
Plaque psoriasis manifests itself as patches (or plaques) of dry and itchy raised rashes upon the outer surface of your skin. These plaques are most common on the elbows, knees, lower back, and scalp. These plaques can be discolored and raised from the surface of skin. Irritating symptoms of physical discomfort include itching, burning sensations, and soreness.
The symptoms of plaque psoriasis can develop and remain for weeks or even months, before subsiding. The causes of this condition are not completely understood. But one general scientific conclusion is that the immediate cause of plaque psoriasis symptoms is the deployment of infection-fighting immune cells to the skin, causing inflammation. Fortunately, psoriasis is not contagious.
Plaque psoriasis can and ought to be managed, to reduce symptomatic flare-ups. It’s important to avoid triggers, which can include infections, skin injury, dry and/or cold weather, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Treatment options include topical medications, light therapy, and the utilization of natural medicine.
Natural Supplements for Psoriasis
Dietary supplements are one area of natural treatment which applies to plaque psoriasis. A number of supplements have been touted for this purpose. Below are three of the most effective and oft-used supplements for treating this condition.
Fish oil is one of the most often-used supplements for treating plaque psoriasis because it contains two of the most powerful, natural anti-inflammatory substances. These are omega-3 fatty acids commonly referred to as EPA and DHA. Various studies show that daily supplementation with a fish oil supplement can reduce plaque psoriasis symptoms when taken consistently for a duration of at least 12 weeks, up to around 6 months.
Turmeric is an herbal product available in supplement form and which is renowned for its anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric are the handiwork of curcumin, turmeric’s main natural active ingredient. Research on psoriasis and turmeric generally concludes that turmeric is well-tolerated by the body for this purpose. Furthermore, it can meaningfully contribute to psoriasis management when combined with other treatment methods.
Vitamin D3 is a crucial vitamin for the body in general, and low levels have been closely associated with the development of psoriasis. Increasing your intake of vitamin D via a supplement could therefore be of help. At least one recent study has shown that consistently taking an oral vitamin D3 supplement for between two and six months can help bring psoriasis symptoms down significantly. Vitamin D is also commonly used topically to treat psoriasis. An oral supplement is an easy way to bolster your intake of this pivotal vitamin.
The autoimmune condition called plaque psoriasis is disruptive to daily life because of its uncomfortable symptoms. When you take managing psoriasis into your own hands, these supplements become a viable nutritional option for alleviating the condition and restoring at least some comfort. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.