Psoriasis is characterized as an autoimmune disease that impacts skin by causing patches of inflammation, flakes, and redness in areas such as the scalp, knees, hands, elbows, and lower back. While patients with psoriasis are often told to avoid certain foods (i.e., processed meat and alcohol), psoriasis symptoms may also see some improvements when patients adhere to a
healthy diet that contains lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins.

However, certain so called “superfoods” can help psoriasis sufferers reduce painful symptoms and improve skin damage. The following vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant rich foods are linked to improving psoriasis:

1. Garlic
In addition to fighting off colds and vampires, garlic is also a known psoriasis aid, thanks to containing plenty of natural inflammation enzyme blockers, or lipoxygenase inhibitors, which are triggered by excess levels of arachidonic acid in the fatty tissues and skin. In addition, fresh garlic particularly contains loads of the natural antioxidants, vitamin C and selenium.

2. Whole grains
While many psoriasis sufferers avoid white bread and pasta because they are trying to lose weight, not all grains are created equally. Whole grains such as quinoa, oats, and brown rice help add more fiber to your diet, which is linked to lowering inflammation while helping to better manage blood-sugar.

3. Broccoli
Broccoli has been long recommended to psoriasis sufferers due to the fact that these tiny green crunchy trees are rich in folate, beta-carotene, and vitamin C, all natural skin aids. Diets that feature broccoli are also high in fiber and low as far as the glycemic index, to help keep weight manageable. Eat your broccoli raw or steamed to retain the most nutrient density.

4. Blueberries
Most dark colored berries are known to have anti-inflammatory benefits (i.e., blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, etc.). However, blueberries in particular support skin and bone growth due to packing natural anti-inflammatories like vitamin C, manganese, and fibre into each tiny blue berry.

5. Almonds
Many nuts feature natural antioxidants (i.e., magnesium and Vitamin E). However, almonds in particular are also loaded in good fats, as well as plenty of fibre and high-quality protein, which help manage weight and boost metabolism. But remember to eat any nuts in moderation, as even though they’re high in good fats, they’re still high in fats and calories.

6. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes, the yummier relative to the white and red tader, is a known friend and ally to psoriasis sufferers. First, sweet potatoes are often featured in food allergy diets because they rarely cause allergic reactions, and many of you likely know that psoriasis is often linked to an allergy. Sweet potatoes are also loaded with beta-carotene. In fact they feature double the amount compared to carrots.