Tuesday, May 02, 2006

Dietary Changes May Help Control Psoriasis

Two dietary elements that have proven results are flax seed and sea cucumber.

Flax seed is one of the most nutritionally complete foods available, but the components most relevant to psoriasis treatment are Omega 3 and mucilage. The Omega 3 helps correct the Omega 3 deficiency frequently found in those with skin diseases, and the mucilage prevents toxic buildup in the bowel – thereby addressing another common factor in skin disease, the excretion of excess toxins.

Sea cucumber is a marine animal related to starfish and sea urchins, but shaped liked a cucumber. Like flax seed, it also contains a broad range of nutrients, and has been used by the Chinese since ancient times in the prevention of disease and as a longevity tonic. Two of its most important nutrients – glucosamine and chrondroitin sulfate – are now used in the West for treatment of arthritis, a condition developed by 30 percent of those who suffer from psoriasis. Sea cucumber may prevent psoriatic arthritis, and will also reduce the pain and inflammation associated with psoriasis on the skin.

Consult with your doctor before taking these nutrients as they can interact or counteract with some drugs you may be taking for other conditions.

Adding flax seed and sea cucumber may help provide the nutrients needed to reduce psoriasis symptoms, possibly forever.