Q. Dear Terry, “I recently had a psoriasis flare, which I think was from the stress and foods I ate around the holidays. I want to get back on track and heal myself naturally. What are your suggestions for psoriasis?” – Callie M., Tallahassee, FL

A. Dear Callie, When it comes to chronic conditions, like psoriasis, I think our diet can be a very powerful medicine. I think it’s important to emphasize healthy fats (eggs, olive oil, animal fats, etc.), protein, nuts, vegetables, low sugar fruits, and decrease carbohydrate intake. I recommend avoiding all grains, sugar, soft drinks, refined flour and dairy (with the exception of cream, butter, yogurt, and kefir). Some additional diet resources include: www.ketogenic-diet-resource.com, www.drperlmutter.com, and www.dietdoctor.com. You should also read the books, Grain Brain by Dr. David Perlmutter and Wheat Belly by Dr. William Davis.

I believe people with psoriasis would benefit greatly by adding a clinically studied curcumin to their daily routine. Curcumin, a compound found in the spice turmeric, has been shown in numerous studies to be helpful for chronic inflammatory skin conditions, like psoriasis. Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and powerful anti-inflammatory that works via multiple pathways. Psoriasis can also have joint involvement, called psoriatic arthritis, and curcumin is a safe and effective option for many types of arthritic conditions as well. I would take 750 mg of curcumin enhanced with turmeric essential oil, twice per day.

For additional support, you may want to consider a clinically studied and standardized boswellia extract. Boswellia works on other inflammatory pathways that curcumin has little impact on. When combined, curcumin and boswellia can significantly reduce inflammation. I would take 500 mg of boswellia with at least 10% AKBA and virtually free of beta-boswellic acids, twice daily.

Lastly, you may want to consider taking sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) oil. Sea buckthorn oil has been shown in clinical research to improve the hydration capabilities of the skin and mucous membranes, alleviate dryness and facilitate skin healing. I prefer a sea buckthorn that features both the seed oil and pulp. I would take 500 mg of sea buckthorn that provides 150 mg of omega-7, twice daily.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally