what foods to avoid with psoriasis - #25601

Andrew

I am really struggling with my psoriasis lately, and it's starting to really mess with my daily life. Like, I've tried topical creams and other stuff, but nothing seems to be working long-term. I keep hearing that diet plays a huge role in this, and I'm planning to see an Ayurvedic doctor soon, but until then, I need some tips. Ugh, it’s so frustrating! I’ve read online about what foods to avoid with psoriasis, but there's so much conflicting info out there! I mean, should I really avoid things like dairy and gluten? What about nightshades? My skin flares up especially like after I eat pizza or ice cream, but I feel like that could just be a coincidence. I don’t want to be cutting out everything and then still be battling these patches all the time. Like, if someone could help me figure out what foods to avoid with psoriasis without making my meals a total nightmare, that'd be amazing! I just wanna feel normal again! What do ya think?

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Dr. Ayush Varma

Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.

5 days ago

4.95

When dealing with psoriasis, the role of diet can indeed be quite significant. Ayurveda connects psoriasis with an imbalance of doshas, particularly Pitta and Vata, which can lead to the accumulation of toxins, or ama, in the body. From an Ayurvedic perspective, managing your diet to balance these doshas while enhancing your digestive fire, or agni, could be beneficial.

You asked about dairy and gluten. It's not uncommon for these to instigate flare-ups in some people. Dairy, being heavy and mucus-forming, can aggravate Kapha and Pitta imbalances, potentially leading to increased inflammation. Reducing or eliminating dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream might be beneficial. As for gluten, it's quite individual. Some find relief by cutting it out, but it’s best to experiment and observe if there are any improvements over a few weeks.

Nightshades, such as tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers, can exacerbate skin conditions like psoriasis in certain individuals due to their potentially inflammatory nature. You might try eliminating them for a couple of weeks to see if your symptoms improve, but not everyone experiences this sensitivity.

Also, spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and processed foods can aggravate Pitta and Vata, leading to worsening of symptoms. Try replacing these with fresh, whole foods, preferably organic if possible, like leafy greens, seeds, and healthy fats such as coconut oil and ghee, which are more soothing to the doshas.

Don't forget about mindfully managing stress, as it's a well-known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups. Integrate practices like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise to help calm your mind and body.

Given these dietary adjustments a try gradually, and observe how your body responds. Once you consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner, they can provide a more tailored plan based on your unique constitution and specific imbalances. Remember, making sweeping dietary changes can be challenging, so try implementing them step by step to make it more manageable.

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does mustard oil darken skin - #24259

Liam

I am dealing with this concern and feeling kinda confused. About a month ago, I started using mustard oil on my skin as a natural moisturizer because I heard it was good for dry skin. At first, it felt nice, but I’ve been noticing that my skin is looking a bit darker lately. I can’t help but wonder, does mustard oil darken skin or something? Maybe I’m overthinking it, but I thought it was supposed to be good for you, not make me look darker! I even read some mixed reviews, and I’m not sure if it’s the oil or maybe the sun exposure. Like, am I just not using enough sunscreen? I usually apply it before bed, but could that be affecting my skin tone? Also, I sometimes use it on my hair, and I’ve noticed my scalp feels oily, obviously, but does that also translate to darker skin on my face? Any thoughts on this would really help, because right now I’m just a bit worried about what’s going on with my skin!

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Dr. Ayush Varma

22 days ago

4.95

Mustard oil is a popular natural remedy in Ayurveda for its warming and nourishing qualities, often recommended for dry skin. Its main properties are ruksha (dry) and ushna (hot), which can help improve circulation and lock in moisture. However, it's not unusual for people to notice skin changes when using new topical treatments. While mustard oil itself doesn't directly darken the skin, it might cause increased susceptibility to sun exposure, hence the perception of darker skin. This is due to the oil's slightly photo-reactive nature, which can amplify the effects of UV light if applied before going out in sunlight. Applying it at night is generally a good practice if you’re concerned about this.

Consider reevaluating your overall skin routine. Ensure you're applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly during the day, particularly if you're exposed to the sun. Even abit of residue left from nighttime applications could be exposed to sunlight the next day, indirectly leading to tanning or darkening.

As for using mustard oil on your hair, occasional use touching your scalp is fine. However, if you notice excessive oiliness, try limiting its application or consider alternatives like coconut oil or almond oil, which are lighter oils and may avoid any unwanted side effects on your skin's appearance. 

Also pay attention to any allergic reactions or oil build-up, as they can sometimes cause irritation and lead to changes in skin tone. A gentle exfoliant every few days can help manage this. Ensure you're maintaining the balance of your doshas—predominantly Pitta, which can be imbalanced through increased heat and reactions in the skin.

If you're still worried or notice additional skin changes, consider consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner or a dermatologist to examine your skin type and tailor recommendations more closely aligned to your unique prakriti.

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