Psoriasis sufferer - should I go gluten free?

Has anyone had psoriasis and started a gluten free diet and had good results? I have psoriasis on my scalp.

My GP has prescribed me a steroid liquid to put on it - it was helping, but doesn't really seem to do much for it now. Just want to know if anyone has had any success stories!

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GFK Reply

Hi - I sympathise with you, I use to suffer from bad eczema and had alot of trouble with rashes on my neck and a flakey scalp. I actually realised there were the things which were causing my skin irritation.

1. Gluten in my conditioner - wheat protein seems to be the main thickening and strengthening agent in most conditioners.

2. Sodium Laureth Sulphate (this product was originally developed as a plane degreaser) and is the main foaming agent in most shampoos, face wash, body washes, dishwashing liquids etc.

Since finding gluten and sodium laureth sulphate free shampoos and conditions (along with hair products) I find my scalp and skin is less scratchy.

3. I also find when I eat gluten or dairy my itchy skin comes back. When I trialed a low stress diet to see what my allergies were - my skin and hair were in great condition.

(This is just my experience and is not way meant to replace the advice of a health professional).

Have you considered getting tested for food or skin allergies? Or gluten intolerance?

Have you tried an elimination or low stress diet to establish if there are certain foods upsetting your skin?

I also hear that some people with psoriasis have tried this product
http://store.pharmacy-nz.com/naturalene_shampoo.html
- the pharmacists at pharmacy-nz.com have done a post graduate paper in nutrition medicine and are great to talk to for advice about allergies, supplements and dealing with eczema etc.

Its by the makers of invisible glove (which was on campbell live earlier this year).

I hope this helps - good luck with your scalp