Pilot study on which foods should be avoided by patients with psoriasis

Abstract

Fundament: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory systemic disease mediated by immune factors. We will explore the foods that act on these factors contributing to psoriasis. As a systemic disease, which shares the same pathophysiological substrate with other comorbidities, diet also leads to worsening of comorbidities. Objective: To indicate a group of foods that can act as a factor of manifestation and/or aggravation of psoriasis and, at the same time, enable strategies for individuals to introduce these foods to their diet. Methods: 43 patients with various forms of psoriasis (excluding pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis) were selected and answered a questionnaire about their eating habits in the first visit, with special attention to the consumption of black coffee, black tea, chocolate, yerba mate, pepper, smoked foods, beef and flavor enhancer (monosodium glutamate). Next, the patient was instructed to suspend alcoholic drinks and tobacco. Results: Beef is the most consumed food by patients followed by MSG (monosodium glutamate), which exists in processed foods, yerba matte, black coffee, chocolate, smoked foods, pepper and black tea. 88.37% noticed reduced scaling and erythema, milder outbreaks during the year and improved quality of life; 11.63% (5 patients) did not notice any effects on the skin. Conclusion: We found poor dietary intake in patients with psoriasis. In addition to receiving proper scientific advice, patients need to be educated regarding their eating habits for a better quality of life and as an adjuvant to the drug therapy. © 2011 by Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia.