Vitamins for Psoriasis: Which Ones Have Benefits or Risks?

Vitamin D

The sunshine vitamin is considered to be the most crucial vitamin for those with psoriasis. It not only helps the body to build strong bones but also builds its immune power to fight various health conditions, including psoriasis. Research indicates that vitamin D levels may have a direct relation to the severity of psoriasis. Thus, the higher the deficiency, the higher the severity of psoriasis.

**Vitamin D Analogues for Psoriasis **

Apart from getting vitamin D through sunlight, skin care experts suggest vitamin D analogue, which is a topical medication for vitamin D. Using vitamin D ointment for psoriasis slows down the cell's growth, improves the skin cell health and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.

Benefits of Vitamin D cream for psoriasis (analogue):

• Reduces the risk of high levels of calcium in the blood

• Reduces the risk of high calcium in urine

• Removes the scales

• Slows down the rapidly growing skin cells.

**Vitamin D Dietary Recommendations **

• Egg yolks

• Cheese

• Fatty fish

• Fortified cereals

** Vitamin C**

When the levels of disease-causing free radicals in the body increase, oxidative stress builds up in the body. Vitamin C contains antioxidants that prevent damage to the body due to oxidative stress.

It works by reducing the actions of the free radicals in the body. However, more research may be required to establish the exact role of vitamin C in managing psoriasis. People with psoriasis can increase their vitamin C intake by consuming citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, berries, etc.

Also Read: Vitamin C Benefits

Vitamin E

Vitamin E contains antioxidant properties that may be helpful in managing psoriasis. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that protects the body cells from damage and reduces inflammation.

People with psoriasis may experience relief from itching, redness and inflammation by consuming vitamin E capsules for psoriasis. Vitamin E can be obtained from many food items, such as nuts (almonds, sunflower seeds), fruits (mangoes, avocados), and vegetables (spinach, pumpkin).

Vitamin B Complex for Psoriasis

B complex vitamins B7 (biotin) and B12 are also known to improve the symptoms of psoriasis. While there is no direct correlation between biotin and psoriasis, biotin supplements play a significant role in maintaining skin health by promoting the growth of healthy skin cells.

A study revealed that B12 reduced the severity of psoriasis as B12 helps to break down homocysteine, which is present in high levels in people with psoriasis. Homocysteine leads to skin inflammation and oxidative damage, which B12 controls.

Also Read: Vitamin B Benefits

Vitamin A

Retinoids (vitamin A) are chemical compounds that play a significant role in producing healthy skin cells. Psoriasis leads to the overproduction of skin cells, which can be curbed by vitamin A.

Thus, it may be effective in improving psoriasis symptoms too. Retinoids can also be applied topically on the skin to reduce the inflammation. One can improve the vitamin A level in the body by consuming foods such as spinach, pumpkin, avocado, carrots, sweet potatoes, egg yolks, corn, etc.

Omega-3 fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have rich anti-inflammatory abilities that make them a potent ingredient for those with psoriasis. Omega-3 fatty acid helps those with psoriasis by reducing the inflammation in the body.

The consumption of omega-3 fatty acids works very well when combined with treatments, such as vitamin D analogues for psoriasis. Fishes like salmon and tuna, nuts, plant oils, seeds, etc., are some sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

Turmeric

Turmeric is another source of antioxidant that those with psoriasis can use. Its main ingredient, curcumin, works to alleviate psoriasis symptoms, such as inflammation and cell damage. Turmeric can be used orally or topically to improve the skin condition in psoriasis, with the least possible side effects.

Oregon Grape

Oregano grape, also known as Mahonia, is a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory capabilities, which make it an effective ingredient in the treatment of psoriasis. It also helps with itchy skin and inflammation and brings some relief when applied topically. However, more evidence and research are required to establish the effectiveness of this ingredient for psoriasis.

All the vitamins taken within the recommended dosage are healthy and beneficial for those dealing with psoriasis. However, an excess of any vitamin can be harmful to the body. Thus, you must watch out while consuming these vitamins.

Vitamin D- While vitamin D is revered for its effectiveness in psoriasis, consuming high doses can cause side effects, such as nausea, constipation, vomiting, weight loss, and abnormal heart rates. High amounts of vitamin D can also cause calcium buildup in the body, resulting in kidney stones.

Vitamin A- Using vitamin A creams for treating psoriasis is generally safe. However, you must be aware of the potential side effects, including redness, stinging and burning. Vitamin A products may also increase the chances of developing sunburn. Hence, it is important to be cautious when stepping out in the sun and using vitamin A.

Also Read: Vitamins for Brain

While vitamins are not a cure for psoriasis, they consist of properties that have been helpful in managing psoriasis and alleviating the symptoms. Vitamins for psoriasis management include vitamins A, B, C, D and E. Apart from these, some other ingredients, such as turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids and Oregon grape have also proved to be useful in psoriasis.

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What are some topical remedies for Psoriasis?

Some topical remedies for psoriasis include olive oil, coconut oil, castor oil, aloe vera and apple cider vinegar. The applications of these oils and products may moisturise the skin, improve blood flow, smoothen the skin, and reduce itching and scaling. However, scientific evidence on the effectiveness of these remedies is insufficient.

What foods can help with psoriasis?

• Some foods that can help with psoriasis are as follows:

• Sweet potatoes, broccoli, citrus fruits, carrots, etc.

• Omega-3 fatty acid foods, such as fish, including salmon, sardines, mackerel, walnuts and chia seeds.

• Spices, such as turmeric, curcumin and ginger.

• Herbs, including nutmeg, neem, saffron, bitter gourd, etc.

• Lean protein, including tofu, beans, peas, lentils, greek yoghurt, lean beef, egg whites, etc.

What are vitamin D derivatives for psoriasis in India?

In India, the most commonly used vitamin D derivative is calcipotriol. It is an ointment that is applied directly to the skin for managing psoriasis.

Which vitamin deficiency causes psoriasis?

Psoriasis occurrence cannot be directly linked to vitamin deficiency. However, keeping up the vitamin levels in the body helps overall skin health. Vitamins promote healthy skin, reduce inflammation and increase cell turnover.

Should we buy the vitamin D creams for psoriasis over the counter?

While some over-the-counter vitamin D creams are available in India, their effectiveness in treating psoriasis is not reliable. Thus, it is recommended to opt for a prescription-based vitamin D analogue for the best result in specific psoriasis treatment.