If you're living with psoriasis, you've likely tried a range of treatments with varying success. One common yet overlooked remedy lies in improving your gut health, particularly through the use of probiotics. I’m Dr. Chanu Dasari, and through my Mind Gut Immunity Method, I’ve helped thousands of patients reverse inflammation-driven conditions like psoriasis. Today, I’ll guide you through selecting the best probiotic supplements to reduce psoriasis symptoms and improve your overall gut health.
The Mistake Most People Make with Probiotics
The most common mistake I see is that people assume any off-the-shelf probiotic supplement will work. Many walk into a grocery store, pick up the first bottle they see, and hope for the best. Then, they become disappointed when their symptoms don’t improve. What most people don’t realize is that not all probiotics are created equal, and for individuals dealing with inflammatory conditions like psoriasis, choosing the right probiotic is crucial.
Why Gut Health Is Essential for Psoriasis
Research has shown that altered gut flora, or an imbalance of bacteria in the intestines, is closely linked to immune dysfunction seen in psoriasis. This is no surprise when you consider that 70-80% of your immune system resides in your gut. An imbalance of gut bacteria can exacerbate inflammation and worsen autoimmune conditions like psoriasis.
Probiotics can help restore balance in the gut by increasing the population of "good" bacteria, reducing inflammation, and improving your immune system's response. The key, however, is selecting the right probiotic supplement and using it effectively.
What to Look for in a Probiotic Supplement
Many people become overwhelmed by the technical jargon associated with probiotics. Terms like "colony-forming units" (CFUs) and "strains" get tossed around, but in reality, the most important factor isn’t the number of strains or CFUs—it’s the frequency of administration.
Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting probiotics for psoriasis:
- Strain Selection: The three most important strains of bacteria in any good probiotic are Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces, and Bifidobacterium. Of these, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have the strongest evidence supporting their benefits in reducing inflammation.
- Frequency of Use: Taking probiotics once a day may not be enough, especially for inflammatory conditions like psoriasis. Aim to take your probiotics at least two to four times a day. This consistent introduction of beneficial bacteria helps crowd out harmful microbes, improving gut health over time.
- Affordable Options: Probiotics don’t have to be expensive. While there are many probiotic supplements available, yogurt and fermented foods can be cost-effective alternatives. A spoonful of yogurt or other fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchi can provide beneficial bacteria. If you're allergic to dairy, non-dairy yogurts are also an option.
How to Make Probiotics Work for You
To make the most of your probiotic supplements, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Bowel Movements Are Crucial: Regular bowel movements help flush out bad bacteria and give the good bacteria from probiotics a chance to flourish. Aim for two to four bowel movements a day. If necessary, consider adding fiber or using a stool softener to help maintain regularity.
- Expel the Bad, Welcome the Good: As you introduce probiotics into your system, it’s essential to continuously expel waste. Simply taking probiotics once a day without clearing out old microbes won’t have the same impact. Ensuring regular bowel movements is key to allowing the good bacteria to thrive.
- Microbiome Hacking: Consider “microbiome hacking,” where you actively work to improve your gut health by introducing good bacteria and expelling the bad. This requires a consistent routine of probiotics and regular bowel movements to optimize the bacterial balance in your gut.
Probiotic Food Options vs. Supplements
While probiotic supplements are an easy option, many people prefer to get their probiotics from food. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso are excellent natural sources of probiotics. If you're lactose intolerant, don’t worry—yogurt contains less lactose than milk, and the beneficial bacteria it contains can help break down the lactose. However, if you have a dairy allergy or prefer non-dairy options, plant-based yogurts are also available.
For those who prefer supplements, look for reputable brands that provide high-quality probiotics. While the number of strains or CFUs isn’t as important as consistency, it’s still essential to choose a supplement that contains the right strains, particularly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Taking Control of Your Health
By selecting the right probiotics, taking them consistently, and maintaining regular bowel movements, you can dramatically improve your gut health and reduce psoriasis-related inflammation. Remember, your gut plays a pivotal role in managing your immune response, and with the right approach, you can take control of your psoriasis symptoms.
For personalized guidance and support, schedule a discovery call with Dr. Chanu Dasari at MGI Clinics. Our Case Studies page features stories of patients who have successfully managed their conditions through the Mind-Gut-Immunity Method.
Start Your Journey to Better Health Today
Discover the transformative power of the Mind-Gut-Immunity Method! Over the past decade, Dr. Dasari has helped countless clients reduce inflammation and find relief from autoimmune issues, often in just 3-6 weeks. Now, you can start your journey to better health with our free training. Click the link below, choose your condition, and learn how our proven approach can help you feel better fast.
About the Author
Dr. Chanu Dasari, a distinguished clinician with a career spanning renowned institutions like Vanderbilt University, Oxford University, and the University of California, has made significant contributions to medical research and practice. His work, published in top peer-reviewed scientific journals and adopted by the US Department of Health, highlights his commitment to advancing healthcare. Dr. Dasari is board-certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the American College of Surgeons, with a specialization in hernia repair, gallbladder removal, cysts, digestive disease, and cancer. As the founder of the Mind-Gut-Immunity Clinic, he draws from personal experience with autoimmune and digestive dysfunction to lead a team dedicated to patient-centered care using evidence-based protocols.