Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, is characterised by thick red plaques covered with scales that appear on various parts of the body. While diet can play a crucial role in reducing symptoms associated with psoriasis, it's important to note that certain foods tend to trigger it. Could sugar be one of them? This article provides the answer.
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Does sugar consumption promote the onset of psoriasis?
Summary
Published September 22, 2023,
updated on August 2, 2024,
by
Manon, Scientific Editor
—
3 min read
Psoriasis, in brief.
Psoriasis is a skin disease identifiable by the red, scaly patches that cover specific parts of the body. These can be a source of itching and irritation, with the intensity varying from one individual to another. They appear following skin inflammation caused by a failure of the immune system. T lymphocytes produce inflammatory molecules (cytokines Il-17, Il-22, TNF-alpha, among others). These stimulate the proliferation of keratinocytes. The renewal period of these cells, normally three weeks, then reduces to three days. This results in an accumulation of immature keratinocytes on the skin's surface, increasing the thickness of the outer layer (the cornea). This is referred to as hyperkeratosis.
Does sugar have an effect on psoriasis?
The consumption of certain foods is discouraged, even prohibited in cases of psoriasis. These tend to create a pro-inflammatory state. Sugar is at the forefront of these.
A study conducted on rats affected by an induced form of psoriasis has shown that excessive consumption of simple sugars exacerbates the disease, particularly in terms of inflammation. Rats fed on fructose showed an increase in serum levels of IL-17 compared to control rats. They also exhibited an increase in epidermal thickness and an increase in the expression of neutrophil markers that contribute to inflammation. All these factors led to a worsening of psoriasis.
Regarding the role of sugar in the onset of psoriasis, scientific research has not yet established a direct link between sugar consumption and the triggering of psoriasis. However, sugar intake can potentially influence the severity of symptoms in some individuals with psoriasis by increasing chronic inflammation. Sweets and all sugary products such as cakes or spreads should be consumed in moderation by individuals with psoriasis. Similarly, ice creams and jam are not recommended.
Sources
AFIFI L. & al. Dietary behaviors in psoriasis: Patient-reported outcomes from a U.S. National Survey. Dermatology and Therapy (2017).
KANDA N. & al. Nutrition and psoriasis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2020).
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