By naturopath Margaret Jasinska

Psoriasis is one of the most common autoimmune conditions in the world. In fact, it’s so common that many people don’t actually realise it is autoimmune. They just consider it to be an annoying skin rash. There are a few different types of psoriasis, but the most common variety typically presents as red patches with white scales on top. Parts of the body most commonly affected are the back of the forearms, shins, navel area, and scalp.

There is a strong genetic component to psoriasis. If a family member of yours has the disease, you are at high risk of developing it. But of course genes are only one risk factor and will not guarantee you’ll develop psoriasis. The health of your immune system and gut is more important.

The majority of your immune system resides in your gut. Research has shown that people with psoriasis have different gut bacteria, which adversely affect the immune system and raise inflammation. Modifying the gut bacteria can help to alleviate psoriasis as well as other autoimmune conditions.

People with psoriasis have a higher number of bad gut bugs, which secrete inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream. The gut bugs also inflame the gut lining, creating a leaky gut. This allows a greater quantity of waste products, bacterial toxins and the bacteria themselves to enter the bloodstream. This is known as bacterial translocation. It creates an inflammatory cascade, which can cause psoriasis in individuals who are genetically predisposed to develop it.

People with psoriasis also have reduced bacterial diversity in their gut. This means there is less competition, and harmful gut bugs can proliferate.

Eating lots of fibre-rich foods, antioxidants, fermented foods and drinking bone broth helps promote an increase in healthy gut bugs in most people. Sometimes though, an antibiotic or herbal antimicrobial is required to kill off bad gut bugs first. The oregano, clove, thyme and berberine in BactoClear capsules all have disinfectant actions in the gut. These capsules are very helpful for anyone with gut problems.

People with autoimmune conditions like psoriasis also often suffer with nutrient deficiencies and impaired liver health. If the liver is unhealthy, it produces inflammatory chemicals that can aggravate any autoimmune condition. The Dr Cabot 15 Day Cleanse is a program designed to support healthy liver, gut and immune health. It helps to reduce inflammation and can help you regain your health. For long term health maintenance, Ultimate Superfood powder contains nutrients and antioxidants to support liver health and Ultimate Gut Health powder helps maintain healthy gut bugs and prevents leaky gut.

For more information see our book Healing Autoimmune Disease: A plan to help your immune system and reduce inflammation.

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