Discussion

Psoriasis affects up to 4% of the population, making it an extremely common skin disorder. It is caused by a pile-up of skin cells that have multiplied too rapidly. The rate of division is up to 1000 times faster than in normal skin, which is too fast for them to be shed; hence the pile-up of scales.

Causes

1) Poor Protein Digestion

If protein digestion is incomplete, or if there is inadequate intestinal absorption of amino acids, bacteria can break down the amino acids into many toxic compounds. A group of toxic amino acid derivatives known as polyamines are known to be increased in individuals with psoriasis. Vitamin A inhibits the formation of polyamines. However, the best way to prevent excessive formation of polyamines is to ensure complete protein digestion. This may involve the use of betaine hydrochloride or pancreatic enzymes with meals.

2) Bowel Toxins

Many toxins produced in the intestines can increase the rate of skin cell reproduction, leading to psoriasis. The substances concerned are endotoxins (from the cell walls of certain bacteria), streptococcal products, Candida Albicans and yeast products. A diet low in dietary fibre increases the level of toxins remaining in the gut. This is because many fibre components bind to toxins and promote their excretion. A diet high in vegetables and fruit is therefore important. The juice from Aloe Vera is also able to bind to toxins and also has fungicidal and bactericidal effects against some microbes.

The Liver

The liver is the body's main detoxifying organ. If it is under-performing, or if it is overwhelmed, psoriasis can get worse. Alcohol impairs liver function and may also overwhelm it, so this needs to be avoided. Silymarin, the main active component of milk thistle, can reduce liver damage and can also help regeneration of its cells.

Nutrition

Vitamin A and zinc are important for general skin condition, and zinc can have anti-inflammatory effects. The omega-3 oils EPA and DHA, present in fish oils, can have powerful inhibitory effects on inflammatory hormone-like substances called prostaglandins.

Digestion

Complete protein digestion is important. Betaine HCL or pancreatin can achieve this if a deficiency exists.

Treatment

Supplements

¨       Vitamin A, vitamin E and zinc are all important. These can all be supplied by a good-strength multivitamin.

¨       Selenium; 200mcg per day.

¨       Fish oil; 1000mg 2 or 3 times per day. (Care needed if on anti-coagulants.)

Herbal Remedies

¨       Aloe Vera juice; can be extremely effective, but quality is extremely variable, because no  UK recognised standards have been set. It needs not to be made from reconstituted powders, and needs to be aloin-free.

¨       Artichoke helpsliver function and intestinal condition.

¨       Dandelion Root helps both liver and kidney function.

¨       Milk Thistle helps liver function.

Digestive Aids

Betaine hydrochloride or pancreatin may be useful.

Diet

 Avoid alcohol, sugar, caffeine, milk products, citrus fruits, artificial preservatives, colours and flavourings. Increase fruits, vegetables, oily fish.

To buy any of these products, click this link: www.NationalNutrition.co.uk