Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that manifests as red, scaly patches on the skin. While traditional treatments often focus on topical creams or medications, emerging research suggests that psoriasis is not merely a skin condition but a systemic issue that begins in the gut. At MGI Clinics, our holistic approach focuses on addressing gut health to reduce inflammation and achieve lasting results without relying on medication.

In this blog, we’ll explore the common mistakes people with psoriasis make and actionable strategies to reverse symptoms naturally.

‍The Gut-Skin Connection in Psoriasis

Did you know that 70-80% of your immune system resides in the gut? This makes gut health a cornerstone of autoimmune disease management. In psoriasis, the skin inflammation you see is often triggered by systemic inflammation originating in the gut.

The American Gut Project, a leading research initiative, has found that the composition of gut bacteria can predict flare-ups and the severity of autoimmune inflammation, including psoriasis. Poor gut health—characterized by bacterial overgrowth, fungal imbalances, and leaky gut—can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

‍Six Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Bowel Movements

Regular bowel movements are essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. When waste lingers in the intestines, it promotes the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi, leading to inflammation. Conditions like Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO) can increase intestinal permeability (leaky gut), allowing toxins to enter the bloodstream and trigger immune responses that worsen psoriasis.

Action Step:

• Aim for 2-4 bowel movements daily.
• Incorporate high-fiber foods such as broccoli, carrots, lentils, and quinoa.
• Stay hydrated to support digestive health.

2. Consuming Excessive Sugar and Processed Foods

Sugary and processed foods disrupt the gut microbiome by feeding harmful bacteria and fungi like Candida, which produce inflammatory byproducts. These foods also activate pro-inflammatory pathways like NF-kB, further worsening skin inflammation.

Action Step:

• Avoid refined sugars, white bread, and processed snacks.
• Replace these with phytonutrient-rich foods like dark leafy greens, berries, and nuts.

3. Neglecting Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients, found in plants and fungi, are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Long-term diets like keto or carnivore may lack these essential nutrients, which are critical for supporting a healthy gut and reducing inflammation.

Action Step:

• Incorporate foods high in phytonutrients, such as spinach, kale, blueberries, and turmeric.
• Consider a phytonutrient-focused diet to maximize your intake.

4. Ignoring Stress and Trauma

Stress and trauma can significantly impact psoriasis. Chronic stress dysregulates the immune system, leading to increased inflammation. Research highlights a strong connection between emotional well-being and autoimmune conditions.

Action Step:

• Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or journaling.
• Seek support to address unresolved emotional trauma.

5. Poor Sleep Habits

Restorative sleep is crucial for regulating inflammation. Poor sleep patterns increase inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-6, which can worsen psoriasis symptoms.

Action Step:

• Establish a consistent sleep routine.
• Create a sleep-friendly environment by minimizing light and avoiding screens before bed.

6. Leading a Sedentary Lifestyle

Physical activity helps reduce inflammatory markers and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. Exercise releases anti-inflammatory molecules that can improve overall immune function.

Action Step:

• Incorporate low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga into your routine.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

‍How to Optimize Your Gut Health for Psoriasis

Addressing gut health is a multi-faceted process that involves diet, lifestyle, and mindfulness.

Diet for Gut Health

• High-Fiber Foods: Support bowel regularity and foster good bacteria. Examples include lentils, oats, and leafy greens.
• Probiotic-Rich Foods: Reintroduce beneficial bacteria with foods like yogurt (dairy-free if necessary), kimchi, and sauerkraut.
• Phytonutrient Foods: Enhance gut health and reduce inflammation with spinach, turmeric, and berries.

Lifestyle Changes

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and detoxification.
• Stress Management: Practice mindfulness techniques to lower stress levels.
• Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize quality sleep to reduce inflammatory markers.

‍Natural Supplements to Consider

1. Magnesium: Supports bowel regularity and reduces stress.
2. Probiotics: Help restore a balanced gut microbiome.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce systemic inflammation and promote skin health.
4. Vitamin D: Boosts immune regulation and lowers inflammatory cytokines.

‍Taking Control of Your Health

Psoriasis is more than skin-deep. By addressing the root cause—gut health—you can reduce inflammation and achieve lasting relief. At MGI Clinics, our Mind Gut Immunity Method has helped countless patients overcome psoriasis naturally, without medication.

If you’re ready to explore a personalized approach to managing your condition, 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.