Are you tired of trying countless supplements without seeing any real benefits for your Psoriasis or Psoriatic arthritis? You’re not alone. With so many products on the market, it can be challenging to know which ones are truly effective. In this blog post, we’ll discuss four scientifically proven supplements that can help reduce pain, improve function, decrease swelling, and enhance your skin health.
We’ll also cover the appropriate doses and how to choose high-quality supplements.
Introduction
Psoriasis affects around 125 million people worldwide, causing itchy, scaly rashes on various parts of the body. However, it’s more than just a skin condition; about 25% of individuals with Psoriasis develop Psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory joint disease that can be disabling if left untreated. Many patients are interested in trying more natural solutions rather than treating them with medications. While I always advise patients that supplements will never replace the treatments, I encourage them to make informed decisions based on scientific evidence available today.
There are 4 supplements that I usually discuss with my patients, and I will discuss them in depth below.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for calcium metabolism and plays a vital role in immune function. Many immune system cells have receptors for vitamin D. Plus, research found that many patients with Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis are deficient in vitamin D which is believe to be related to more inflammation and more autoimmune diseases, There are also large studies that proved that taking vitamin D will decrease the risk to develop autoimmune diseases like Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis.
My recommendation is to talk to your doctor and get the vitamin D level every year. If the level is low, start a vitamin D supplement.
Fish Oil/Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have anti-inflammatory properties similar to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac) but without their side effects. They work by reducing the production of inflammatory substances in the body. Studies have indicated that Psoriatic arthritis patients taking fish oil alongside standard therapy experienced reduced joint pain, improved function, and decreased inflammation markers. Patients also reported significant decrease in the use of NSAIDs and acetamynophen/ tylenol/ paracetamol and decreased if the risk to develop heart diseases.
Turmeric
Turmeric, a yellow spice containing curcuminoid compounds, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that curcumin can improve symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and decrease disease activity and inflammation markers. Adding turmeric to your diet or taking a curcumin supplement may help reduce the need for NSAIDs. A study published in 2020, showed that curcumin inhibits pro-inflammatory molecules in the immune system cells from people with psoriatic disease affecting both the skin and the joints.
Probiotics
Gut health is crucial for individuals with Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis, as many experience gut issues like abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
The role of probiotics, although not completely understood, is to regulate the gut bacteria and hopefully improve the good bacteria population species in the gut. Studies on probiotics have mixed results, and that might be because of different strains used, different brands, or simply not enough time to evaluate the effects.
A study in patients with Psoriasis showed the use of probiotics was associated with improvement in the skin disease in up to 75% of those who took probiotics for 3 months. Certain types of bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains have been shown to be beneficial in people with Psoriasis and studies have shown that they can reduce markers of inflammation.
Dosage Recommendations
- Vitamin D: 1000-2000 IU/day; it is recommended to monitor vitamin D blood levels every 6 months.
- Fish Oil: 2-3 grams/day; choose a high-quality supplement, and make sure it is free of mercury contaminants.
- Turmeric/Curcumin: 1000 – 1500 mg daily; ensure it includes pepper or piperine for better absorption.
- Probiotics: 10-50 billion CFU multi-strain formulas (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium).
How to start taking a supplement?
As with any supplement, start with low and gradually increase the dose while monitoring for side effects. Always reevaluate the effect on your body every 2-3 months. If you see a benefit you may continue, if not you should stop.
Where can you find high-quality supplements?
I would strongly recommend looking for NSF and USP certifications. These are third party certifications that independently assess products without being affiliated to these companies that produced them. They do toxicology review to certify product formulation to make sure there are no contaminants like heavy metals or other toxins. For those of you that are interested I put some links in this blog to products that meet these criteria. Please keep in mind that I can’t guarantee the effectiveness of these products. Please do your research and also discuss it with your doctor.
Conclusion
These four supplements have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms in individuals with Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure they are safe for you. If you are looking for recommendations,
FAQs
Are these supplements safe to take with my current medications for Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis?
It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you are taking medications for Psoriasis. Some supplements may interact with certain medications, so it’s essential to discuss your options with your doctor.
How long should I take these supplements to see results?
Results may vary from person to person. It’s recommended to give each supplement a trial period of 3 months while monitoring your symptoms. If you notice any improvement, you may continue taking the supplement under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Can I take these supplements if I have other health conditions?
As with any supplement, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking medications. Your doctor can help determine if these supplements are safe for you and if they may benefit your overall health.
Are there any side effects of these supplements?
While these supplements are generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience side effects. It’s essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase while monitoring for adverse reactions. If you experience any side effects, discontinue use and consult with your healthcare provider. By incorporating these scientifically proven supplements into your daily routine, you may find relief from the symptoms of Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Stay informed and stay healthy!
Disclaimer: This article and its content are for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor before making any medical decisions. Views expressed in comments are those of the individuals and do not reflect the opinion of Rheumatologist OnCall.
Affiliate Links and Safety Information
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