The Department of Dermatology has a new study that is examining how adopting the Mediterranean diet and taking a biologic medication may be more beneficial in combination than either on their own for those with psoriasis.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease resulting in itchy, scaly skin plaques. Biologic medications, which block parts of the pathway that results in psoriasis, are commonly prescribed.
Recently, studies have shown that weight loss may also be helpful in improving psoriasis; however, weight loss is often difficult to achieve or maintain. The Mediterranean diet is more feasible than other diets for most people. It involves incorporating increased amounts of extra virgin olive oil, vegetables, and whole grains, and decreased consumption of red meat and saturated fats. Several studies have suggested that the Mediterranean diet may be helpful in reducing the severity of psoriasis, but so far, no studies have looked that the combination of the Mediterranean diet and biologic medications.
If you are interested in participating in this trial, please contact Dr. Jordan Kahle at 216-844-7305 or Jordan.Kahle@UHhospitals.org.