Gluten Free Diet for Psoriasis: Can It Really Help Manage Flare-Ups?
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Living with psoriasis often means experimenting with different lifestyle choices to see what helps reduce flare-ups. One area that has gained significant attention is diet—particularly the gluten free diet for psoriasis. Many people living with this condition report that removing gluten from their meals has eased inflammation, improved skin clarity, and reduced the severity of flare-ups.
But is there scientific evidence to back this up? And more importantly, can adopting a gluten free diet actually improve your quality of life if you suffer from psoriasis? Let’s dive into the details.
What Is Psoriasis and Why Does Diet Matter?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition where the immune system speeds up skin cell turnover, leading to red, scaly, and inflamed patches. While topical treatments and light therapy play an important role, diet and lifestyle choices may also influence symptoms.
Food sensitivities, gut health, and systemic inflammation can all play a role in how severe psoriasis becomes. That’s why many people are exploring the link between gluten and psoriasis symptoms.
Understanding Gluten and Psoriasis
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and foods made from them (like bread, pasta, and cereals). For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, gluten can cause immune reactions that damage the gut and trigger widespread inflammation.
Gluten and Autoimmune Conditions
Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, and studies have shown that people with psoriasis are more likely to also have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. For these individuals, eating gluten can worsen immune activity, which in turn may fuel psoriasis flare-ups.
Benefits of a Gluten Free Diet for Psoriasis
So, what happens when you try a gluten free diet for psoriasis? While not every person will notice changes, many report improvements such as:
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Reduced skin inflammation – Cutting gluten may lower immune system overactivity.
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Fewer flare-ups – Some people see longer periods of clear skin.
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Better gut health – A gluten free diet often encourages whole, unprocessed foods.
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Improved energy levels – Less bloating and digestive discomfort may support overall wellbeing.
Real-World Experiences
Customers at Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies have shared that switching to gluten free eating while also using supportive topical treatments has been beneficial. It’s rarely a “magic cure,” but for some, it makes a noticeable difference in daily comfort.
How to Start a Gluten Free Diet for Psoriasis
Transitioning to gluten free eating requires planning. Here’s how to get started:
H3: Step 1 – Check With Your Doctor
Before making dietary changes, it’s best to consult your GP or dermatologist. They can test for gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, and advise whether a gluten free diet might help your psoriasis.
H3: Step 2 – Learn Common Sources of Gluten
Gluten isn’t just in bread—it hides in sauces, condiments, and even processed meats. Reading labels becomes essential.
H3: Step 3 – Replace With Safe Alternatives
Opt for naturally gluten free foods:
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Fresh fruit and vegetables
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Lean meats, fish, and poultry
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Rice, quinoa, and buckwheat
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Gluten free pasta and bread options
H3: Step 4 – Support Your Skin With the Right Products
Diet is only part of the puzzle. To manage psoriasis more effectively, combine nutrition with targeted skincare products that reduce irritation and help restore the skin barrier.
At Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies, you’ll find:
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Psoriasis Creams – Formulated to calm redness, dryness, and scaling.
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Soothing Shampoos – Designed for itchy, flaky scalp psoriasis.
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UVB Light Therapy Lamps – A dermatologist-endorsed treatment for psoriasis at home.
Using these in combination with a gluten free lifestyle may provide the most noticeable relief.
Foods to Avoid on a Gluten Free Diet for Psoriasis
When trialling a gluten free approach, watch out for hidden sources of gluten. Avoid:
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White and wholemeal bread
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Pasta and noodles made from wheat
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Cakes, biscuits, pastries
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Beer (unless gluten free)
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Packaged snacks with wheat flour
Instead, swap these out for gluten free labelled alternatives or natural wholefoods.
Does Science Support the Gluten Free Diet for Psoriasis?
Research is ongoing, but several studies suggest that psoriasis patients with gluten sensitivity can benefit from cutting out gluten. For example:
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A 2017 clinical review found that psoriasis patients with positive anti-gliadin antibodies (markers for gluten sensitivity) improved after adopting a gluten free diet.
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Many dermatologists now recommend trialling gluten free eating for 3–4 months if psoriasis sufferers have suspected gluten intolerance.
While results vary, the overall evidence suggests it’s worth trying, particularly if you’ve noticed digestive issues alongside skin symptoms.
Lifestyle Tips to Maximise Benefits
If you decide to try a gluten free diet for psoriasis, combine it with other positive lifestyle choices:
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Stay hydrated – Adequate water supports skin health.
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Manage stress – Stress is a known psoriasis trigger.
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Get enough sleep – Proper rest helps regulate immune function.
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Use supportive skincare – Pair diet changes with natural creams, shampoos, and UVB lamps from our store for the best results.
Should You Try the Gluten Free Diet for Psoriasis?
Not every person with psoriasis is sensitive to gluten. However, if you struggle with frequent flare-ups, bloating, digestive discomfort, or fatigue, it may be worth experimenting with a gluten free lifestyle.
At Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies, we believe in a holistic approach—combining proven skin products with supportive diet and lifestyle changes. If going gluten free helps calm your psoriasis, pairing it with targeted products like soothing creams and UVB light therapy could deliver even stronger results.
Final Thoughts
The gluten free diet for psoriasis isn’t a guaranteed cure, but for many people, it can be a helpful strategy for reducing flare-ups and supporting overall health. The key is to test it carefully, monitor your symptoms, and combine it with effective skin management solutions.
If you’re looking for psoriasis-friendly products to support your journey, explore our range at Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies From gentle creams to advanced UVB light therapy lamps, we provide solutions designed to help you feel more comfortable in your skin.