Psoriasis: Autoimmune Disease

Psoriasis
By Lisa Hughes DipNT

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects approximately 100,000 people in Ireland. So what exactly is Psoriasis and why is it affecting so many of us?

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition, where the immune system somewhere along the way goes rouge and begins to attack healthy tissue cells. In the case of psoriasis it’s the skin, the largest organ in the body. In a process known as cell turnover, skin cells rise to surface at a much higher rate than normal, a few days instead of a month.

This painful condition causes itchy and sore plaques, of thick, red, dry skin. These plaques most often occurs on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet.

Living with psoriasis can be stressful.

These fish are high in EPA, which is an omega 3 fatty acid, known for it’s potent anti-inflammatory properties.

• Bone Broth – Also known as stock, is set to be one of the trendiest foods of 2017 but has been used for centuries for its gut healing properties. This nourishing stock can be made at home using organic chicken carcasses and vegetables, simmered for approx 12 hours. And to my time-restricted clients I always recommend Sadie’s Kitchen Bone Broth!

• Turmeric – Contains a potent anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. This wonderful compound has been shown to fight chronic inflammation, such as psoriasis. Add it to soups, curries and even bone broth. Alternatively you can make a paste with turmeric powder and water, and then apply it directly to the skin. Or simply take a capsule!

• Far Infrared Sauna Therapy – helps alleviates symptoms of psoriasis. The deep penetration of far infrared heat increases blood circulation allowing more oxygen and nutrients to be transported to your body’s cells regenerating and cleansing your skin. Regular use of a Far Infrared Sauna is said to clean toxins inside your body and control skin inflammation while eliminating the itching and repairing the