Managing Psoriasis Flare-Ups: The Influence of Ultra-Processed Foods

Psoriasis is thought to be influenced by various environmental factors, including diet. A recent study published in JAMA Dermatology explored the potential link between ultra-processed foods (UPF) and psoriasis flare-ups, adding to the growing body of research on diet in individuals predisposed to the condition. Here’s an overview of the study and its findings.

Methodology of the Study

The study surveyed 18,000 adults and teenagers from France. Approximately 10 percent identified as having psoriasis, and 4 percent reported an active flare at the time of the trial.

Participants were asked to complete questionnaires regarding their dietary habits, including how often they consume UPF such as chips, cookies, candy, sugary drinks, frozen meals, and other packaged foods.

Participants were then categorized into three groups based on their intake of UPF:

• Those who consumed little to no UPF
• Those who consumed them occasionally
• Those who consumed them frequently

Results of the Study

The key finding from the study was that individuals who consumed UPF frequently were 1.3 times more likely to report an active flare of psoriasis compared to those who rarely or never consumed UPF.

This association persisted even after adjusting for other factors that might influence flares, such as body mass index, alcohol consumption, and the presence of other inflammatory conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

These results suggest that a higher intake of UPF could be a contributing factor to the frequency of psoriasis flare-ups.

Discussion of the Findings

Looking at the results, it’s important to note that the mechanisms behind this association are not confirmed; however, they could be related to the inflammatory nature of UPF. These foods are known for being high in sugar, fats, and artificial additives, and are often linked to increased inflammation in the body through their effects on the gut microbiome and immune system. When consumed in excess, they can initiate a cascade of inflammatory responses that may exacerbate conditions like psoriasis.

Additionally, diets high in UPF may contribute to obesity, a known risk factor for worsening psoriasis. Obesity itself is associated with systemic inflammation, which could further aggravate skin conditions like psoriasis.

Despite this information, more research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms of this association and to develop clear dietary recommendations for managing psoriasis.

Impacts of the Study

Ultimately, this study sheds light on the potential role of UPF in triggering psoriasis flare-ups. Although dietary changes alone may not cure psoriasis, modifying one’s diet to reduce the intake of UPF could offer a simple and effective way for individuals with psoriasis to better manage their condition. Dermatologists should consider discussing dietary habits with their patients as part of a comprehensive approach to psoriasis treatment.

References:

American Academy of Dermatology. Healthy Diet and Other Lifestyle Changes That Can Improve Psoriasis. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/insider/diet. Accessed January 30, 2025.

American Academy of Dermatology. Psoriasis: Causes. Available at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/what/causes. Accessed January 30, 2025.

Cleveland Clinic. Psoriasis and Diet: How Foods Can Impact Inflammation. Available at: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/psoriasis-diet. Accessed January 30, 2025.

JAMA Dermatology. Ultraprocessed Food Intake and Psoriasis. JAMA Dermatol. 2024. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/2827133?guestAccessKey=fc814931-608e-4685-8bb5-ed1011e77e18. Accessed January 30, 2025.

Life. Update on Obesity in Psoriasis Patients. Life. 2023;13(10):1947. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/13/10/1947. Accessed January 30, 2025.