Definition:
Psoriasis appears as patches of scaly skin on top of inflamed skin. These patches
usually appear on the elbows, legs, arms, knees, scalp, ears, and back. Psoriasis is a
rapid growth of cells on the skin’s outer layer. A normal skin cell matures and
passes from the bottom layer of skin to the top in about 28 days. Psoriatic cells form and
migrate to the surface in about 8 days, which causes the scaly patches that cover the
affected area. Psoriasis has its pattern of flair-ups and remissions. Stress, illness,
injury, surgery, viral or bacterial infections, drugs or alcohol, or the use of
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and beta-blockers can trigger attacks. The
underlying cause of psoriasis is not known, but the intake of fats that accelerate the
production of inflammatory prostaglandins is highly suspect.
Symptoms:
Scaly skin, which occurs as patches accompanied by itching over various areas of the
body.
Holistic Treatment Plan:
Consuming a diet that is high in raw fruits and vegetables, along
with frequent meals of fish is very helpful. Avoiding the gluten
grains can also be very helpful (call my office for a complete list
of gluten grains). Eating plenty of fibers is important; in order
to keep the bowel healthy.
References:
Hendler, Sheldon, The Doctors’ Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia, New
York: Simon & Schuster, 1990; Balch, J. F. M.D., Balch, P., C.N.C., Prescription
for Nutritional Healing, 2nd ed., NY: Avery Publishing, 1997.
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
