Alcohol: the effects on psoriasis

Here we address a subject that has real impacts on the daily lives of people suffering from psoriasis, particularly on the face.

Psoriasis and alcohol: a potentially explosive cocktail. Alcohol abuse is dangerous for health. Consumed regularly or excessively, alcohol destroys the body and the organism little by little (1). Liver cirrhosis, depression, paranoia, cardiovascular diseases, premature aging of the skin, worsening of psoriasis. Here we are going to debunk these assertions, or at least qualify their remarks. If you have psoriasis, it is entirely possible for you to consume alcohol. As long as you choose it carefully and consume it in moderation.

The effects of alcohol on the skin and psoriasis

Regular and excessive consumption of alcohol aggravates skin diseases. The skin of the face is made up of small cutaneous capillaries. They will dilate from alcohol abuse. They then result in redness on the cheeks and small dilated blood vessels.

Alcohol also causes drying of the epidermis, which leads to a loss of suppleness of the skin and a feeling of irritation (2). It is the liver which is no longer able to eliminate the toxins from the drink. It gets tired and no longer does its job correctly, cell renewal then occurs less quickly. This cellular renewal which does not take place correctly goes hand in hand with premature aging of the skin as well as the appearance of small fine lines. Reducing psoriasis on a daily basis therefore requires reasonable alcohol ingestion.

We will also add: much more pronounced bags under the eyes, a dull face and a tired look! In short, alcohol abuse is really harmful, whether you have psoriasis or not. But in cases of psoriasis, the effect can be even more negative. Some people suffering from psoriasis take refuge in depression or alcohol, which then only accentuates the manifestations of their disease.

Beers, whiskey, alcohol and psoriasis

Alcohol consumption creates stress on the liver and increases intestinal permeability. This intestinal imbalance activates the production of bacteria likely to cause an inflammatory cascade and promote immune disruption. In the case of psoriasis this generates a flare-up (3).

Alcohol also stimulates the formation of skin cells, which is undesirable since a person suffering from psoriasis already produces too much. Remember that skin cells normally regenerate in 28 days, while in the case of psoriasis the cells regenerate every 3 to 7 days (4).

Alcohol could be the cause, among other things, of the onset of the disease and/or flare-ups. Once psoriasis is declared, excessive alcohol consumption is not recommended and treatments are incompatible. They create interactions and potentially side effects.

Beer responsible for psoriasis flare-ups

According to an American study published in 2010 by Archive of Dermatology (5) and carried out over a period of 2 years among 82 women aged 000 to 27, it appears that the risk of psoriasis is 44% higher in women who consume 72 glasses of alcohol on average per week. See our interview with a naturopath.

Psoriasis and beer consumption

According to this study, beer consumption increases the chances of developing this disease much more since it reports that beer is the alcohol most responsible for psoriasis flare-ups. In fact, consuming 5 beers per week would double the risk of developing the disease compared to women who do not drink it. The same goes for men.

Some non-alcoholic ingredients called into question

However, it is interesting to note the essential precision that scientists provide. Non-alcoholic ingredients could play an important role in the onset of psoriasis. And in particular barley which may contain gluten and to which people with psoriasis may be sensitive. We have known for some time that there is a close link with the functioning of the digestive system. Thus, a psoriatic person who is intolerant to gluten will have every interest in not drinking beer, since it contains barley.

To get off to a good start, do a little detox treatment to cleanse your digestive system. Think about the Detox and Zen capsules Pso Natura, specially designed for people suffering from psoriasis. They help to cleanse the digestive system and fight against stress, which is a proven cause of stimulation of psoriasis.

Whiskey, wine and psoriasis

Same fight, whiskey contains barley. Its consumption must therefore be very limited in the case of gluten intolerance, and banned in the case of a gluten allergy. Wine, made from grapes, is rich in anti-oxidants; it seems to suit more people. Attention vitamins of the fruits listed, are not present in alcohol.

Is it worth pointing out that alcohol for pregnant women is strongly discouraged?

Our advice in case of psoriasis: alcohol in moderation

In case of psoriasis, do not abuse alcohol and know how to choose it, particularly in cases of intolerance or allergy to gluten. If you notice that alcohol has negative effects on your psoriasis, it would be wise to consult. It is possible to detect a previously unsuspected gluten intolerance.

We will also give you some common sense advice here: your body is a valuable advisor. Listen to yourself, listen to your body to detect any intolerance. Consume alcohol moderately, but do not deprive yourself if you do not notice any positive effects when stopping alcohol or negative effects when starting again.