Further steps, big gains

In our recent feature, Dry January: A simple reset for people with psoriatic disease, we explored how taking a break from alcohol can ease pressure on your liver, support your medicines and reduce a known trigger for some people. Alcohol is high in calories with no nutritional value and has been linked with more severe psoriasis, so cutting back is a strong, evidence‑based first move.

The next step is to look at the bigger picture: what you eat, how active you are, your weight, smoking and sleep all play a role in long‑term psoriatic health. Guidance from NICE, the NHS and international dermatology groups agrees that lifestyle changes cannot replace treatment, but they can help reduce inflammation, improve response to therapy and lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes, which are more common in people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

A Mediterranean‑style way of eating plenty of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, pulses, nuts, olive oil and regular fish, has been linked in large studies with milder psoriasis and is now being tested in clinical trials as an add‑on to standard care. Reviews of lifestyle interventions also show that, for people who are overweight, gradual weight loss plus regular, joint‑friendly activity (such as walking, cycling or swimming) can improve psoriasis severity scores and support overall wellbeing.

There is no need for extreme 'diets' or perfect routines: best practice is about small, realistic steps that fit your life, backed by good evidence. If Dry January helped you feel a little clearer or more in control, this is an ideal time to build on that foundation, with a more balanced plate, a bit more movement and support to change habits around smoking, alcohol and weight where you can. PAPAA’s psoriatic lifestyle and nutrition information, alongside your healthcare team, can help you turn that one‑month reset into longer‑term gains.