Role of Vitamin D in Treating Psoriasis

Updated on November 25th, 2019
Vitamin d for psoriasis

Using Vitamin D for psoriasis can provide effective treatment. Vitamin D deficiency can result in unhealthy skin, which may trigger psoriasis. Also, a skin deficient in Vitamin D is more exposed to flares. Vitamin D is also a crucial component of a secure immune system.

As psoriasis is an auto-immune disease, a stronger immune system can prevent the condition from occurring. Similarly, Vitamin D also slows down the growth of new cells. Thus direct application to the flare can reduce the plaque size.

Reduced sunlight striking skin and dryness is the main trigger for psoriasis. Vitamin D is formed on the surface by sunlight, reducing the severity of the condition. Vitamin D also increases the T-cells in the body that strengthen the immune system(1).

Bizarre Facts

  • Did you know that genius people have a high level of Vitamin D in their blood?
  • Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis which may even occur inside your mouth.

How Does The Vitamin D For Psoriasis Work

vitamin d
Image:ShutterStock

There are multiple ways to increase Vitamin D levels in your body that help fight psoriasis. The easiest way for most patients is to increase intake through vitamin D-rich foods. These foods are a natural source of vitamin D. A list of such foods is provided below.

  1. You may have cheese variants to increase vitamin D intake.
  2. Egg yolks are a rich source of vitamin D. You may add the yolks of one or two eggs to your everyday breakfast. It shall increase the vitamin D levels in your body. At the same time, eggs may be served with salads. You may also use an egg coating on foods.
  3. Fatty-fish like tuna are a rich vitamin D source. At the same time, these fish are healthier compared to other forms of lean meat. Another option is eating salmon.
  4. Fortified foods can be another option to increase vitamin D intake. You may add cereals, orange juice, or dairy products to your everyday diet for this purpose.
  5. Cod liver oil is an excellent vitamin D booster. This oil is ideal for cooking. The oil is recommended for deep frying too. You can even season your salads with cod liver oil. Another option is to use the oil to season your salads.
  6. Beef liver is a rich source of vitamin D. You can either have fried beef liver or incorporate it into their salads.

And When cooking gets tough, supplements may be a viable option. Vitamin D2 and D3 supplements are readily available at pharmacies. The Institute of Medicine recommended limiting the upper limit of intake to 4,000 IU a day. You are advised to start with a lower dose and increase gradually to ensure there are no side effects.

[Read: Vitamins to Treat Psoriasis]

You May Also Opt for a Limited Option. You May Use the Following Method.

  1. You may opt for a sunbath. The natural way to intake vitamin D is through exposure to the sun. A few hours at the beach or sunbathing on your roof could help you. However, avoid prolonged exposure, which could lead to sunburns.
  2. Topical vitamin D oils are available. You may apply these oils directly to the flare areas. Topical treatment may soothe the condition and provide temporary relief. However, it is not very useful is avoiding recurrence.
  3. Another option is using vitamin D cream for psoriasis. These creams are readily available in the market. Apply the cream to the flared directly once or twice a day. Repeat the application until the symptoms subside. These creams are relatively safe for use by all. Moreover, they can be used on affected infants(2).
psoriasis treatment
Image: ShutterStock

However, it must be noted that a high dosage of vitamin D supplements can cause serious side effects. Patients may experience excessive urination and weight loss. There are chances of anorexia, irregular heartbeats, and high blood calcium levels. High calcium may result in kidney stones.

Application of the cream may also result in severe itching, skin pain, or inflammation. Thus, before adhering to this regime, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before starting any regular treatment.

Vitamin D deficiency can be the natural cause of psoriasis(3). As a result, vitamin D treatment can help prevent the condition from occurring. Additionally, the strengthened immunity and skin health due to vitamin D intake can help cure psoriasis.

At the same time, it is easy to incorporate vitamin D in their diet; making it a viable option for most patients. Topical options and sunbath can be an effective method to treat your illness. Overall, the remedy is natural, inexpensive, and efficient in most cases.

[Read: Home Remedies for Psoriasis]


FAQs

1. How Much Vitamin D Intake Recommended for Psoriasis?

Ideally, between 400 to 1000 IU per day. Less than 400 IU may not be sufficient, while side effects may occur at higher than 1000 IU per day intake. Your physician can confirm the exact amount.

2. How to Increase the Vitamin D Level in the Body?

Dietary supplements, oral supplements, and sun rays are the most effective ways to increase blood Vitamin D levels.

3. Can There Be Problems with High Vitamin D Levels?

Excessive Vitamin D may cause nausea. It can also cause the itches to flare more. Skin pain may increase due to excessive Vitamin D.

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