For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. However, for many others, eliminating gluten may lead to unintended consequences, including nutritional deficiencies.

Psoriasis is a persistent immune-mediated skin condition affecting a significant portion of the population in various countries, including India, Australia, Japan, and Canada. Characterized by scaly, discolored, and often painful patches, this disorder can greatly impact a person's quality of life. There are numerous factors that can provoke a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms, including stress, illness, and dietary choices. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that gluten might be a contributing factor for certain individuals.

Gluten is a type of protein predominantly found in wheat-based products, including:

• breads
• pastas
• crackers
• various cereals
• beers
• soups
• gravies
• processed foods
• some cosmetics
• certain medications

A recent study indicated that approximately 36% of participants diagnosed with psoriasis chose to follow a gluten-free diet as a strategy to alleviate their symptoms. Among those who eliminated gluten from their diet, an impressive 53% reported significant improvement in their condition.

Continue reading to explore more about the relationship between gluten and psoriasis, as well as the potential advantages and disadvantages of a gluten-free lifestyle.

Does gluten trigger psoriasis?

The relationship between gluten and psoriasis remains somewhat ambiguous; however, numerous individuals have reported a noticeable reduction in their symptoms after adopting a gluten-free diet. Some studies indicate that gluten may exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, particularly in those who possess elevated levels of an antibody known as anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA). These antibodies are produced when the immune system detects a foreign substance, implying that gluten could provoke an immune reaction in certain individuals, potentially indicating gluten sensitivity.

Research has shown that approximately 14% of individuals with psoriasis exhibit high AGA levels, in contrast to just 5% of the general population. It is also quite common for individuals suffering from psoriasis to be affected by concurrent autoimmune conditions, particularly those associated with the gut or joints. Such conditions may include:

• Crohn’s disease
• ulcerative colitis
• psoriatic arthritis

Moreover, individuals with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing celiac disease, a disorder where gluten adversely affects the intestinal villi. The overlap between psoriasis and celiac disease is noteworthy, as both conditions may share underlying mechanisms that contribute to their development.

Nonetheless, a comprehensive study involving 85,185 participants found no significant dose-response relationship between gluten consumption and the onset of psoriasis, indicating that gluten is unlikely to be the direct cause of this skin condition. It is important to note, however, that the study did not specifically evaluate a strictly gluten-free diet, which could be considered a minor limitation.

Can a Gluten-Free Diet Alleviate Psoriasis Symptoms?

Adopting a gluten-free diet has shown potential in alleviating psoriasis symptoms for some individuals, although results may vary widely. Individuals with gluten sensitivity or those who are allergic to gluten may experience an inflammatory response in their bodies, which can trigger a psoriasis-related immune reaction simultaneously.

A comprehensive review involving 1,408 participants across 83 studies focused on non-celiac autoimmune conditions indicated that a gluten-free diet led to a reduction in symptoms for approximately 64.7% of the individuals. However, it is important to note that this study did not exclusively target psoriasis cases.

In another investigation, researchers evaluated the impact of a gluten-free diet over a span of 12 months on anti-gliadin antibody (AGA) levels in 13 psoriasis patients who exhibited elevated AGA levels.

After a year on the gluten-free regimen, those with significantly high AGA levels (greater than 30 U/ml) experienced an average decrease of 56% in their Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores. Conversely, participants with moderately high AGA levels (11.5–30.0 U/ml) saw a 36% reduction in their scores.

Furthermore, the medical board of the National Psoriasis Foundation conducted a thorough review of 55 studies to formulate dietary guidelines for psoriasis management. They provided a cautious endorsement for a gluten-free diet, recommending it primarily for those exhibiting signs of celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

This implies that any observed improvement in psoriasis symptoms following the removal of gluten from the diet may be linked to the effective management of the underlying digestive condition.

Understanding the Benefits and Risks of Adopting a Gluten-Free Diet

A gluten-free diet should primarily be followed by individuals diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. This approach is crucial for managing their health effectively. Over recent years, the public's perception of gluten has shifted significantly, often leaning towards negative associations. Despite this, many claims regarding the benefits of gluten-free diets — such as aiding in weight loss, lowering heart disease risk, and enhancing gut health — lack robust support from scientific studies.

For those without a medical necessity, eliminating gluten can lead to several potential downsides. These may include:

• nutritional deficiencies
• challenges in sourcing and preparing suitable foods
• higher grocery bills
• unpleasant social situations during meals

If you suspect that gluten could be exacerbating your psoriasis symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assist in creating a safe and nutritious dietary plan tailored to your individual needs.

Conclusion

Research indicates that gluten can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, particularly in individuals diagnosed with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Therefore, adopting a gluten-free diet may lead to symptom relief for those affected.

It's important to note that gluten does not directly trigger psoriasis, and for individuals without gluten sensitivity, avoiding gluten is unlikely to yield any improvement in their condition.

If you think you might have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian. They can guide you through the process of trying a gluten-free diet and provide valuable support as you adjust to this new way of eating.