Psoriasis has long been considered untreatable without medication. But a new discovery is flipping that assumption upside down. In a recent study, Spanish researchers found that a simple change in diet could dramatically ease symptoms — and for nearly half of patients, it made a major difference.
Roughly 2.4 million people in France live with psoriasis, a chronic condition that causes red, itchy patches and, for some, painful joints. It doesn’t have a cure — but now, there’s new hope. A research team in Madrid, based at the Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, just released the results of a clinical trial showing that the right diet could help reduce inflammation and improve daily life.
Nearly 50% saw relief in a promising clinical trial
The Medipso trial followed 38 adults with mild to moderate psoriasis over a 16-week period. Participants were divided into two groups: one followed a personalized Mediterranean diet enriched with olive oil, while the other was placed on a low-fat diet.
Those on the Mediterranean plan saw their PASI scores — a measure of psoriasis severity — drop by an average of 3.4 points. In contrast, the control group’s scores remained steady.
Even more striking: 47.4% of the Mediterranean group saw their symptoms improve by 75%.
And that wasn’t all. Participants also reported better sleep, less anxiety, and lower levels of glycated hemoglobin — a key marker linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease, which are often associated with psoriasis.
“This randomized trial showed that a 16-week Mediterranean diet significantly improved psoriasis symptoms,” the researchers wrote. “It suggests that dietary strategies could offer real benefits as a supportive treatment.”
The Mediterranean diet has already been shown to protect the heart, improve metabolism, and reduce inflammation. Eating more colorful fruits and vegetables, fatty fish, whole grains, and olive oil may also help alleviate psoriasis symptoms. © chandlervid85, Adobe Stock
The anti-inflammatory power of the Mediterranean diet
So why does this way of eating make such a difference?
Rooted in Southern European traditions, the Mediterranean diet focuses on:
Bright, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables (like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E);
Whole grains and legumes;
Fatty fish — salmon, mackerel, sardines — packed with omega-3s;
Extra virgin olive oil, full of polyphenols and heart-healthy fats;
And a healthy dose of nuts and seeds.
This combo is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties — a powerful defense against the oxidative stress and immune overactivity seen in psoriasis.
In fact, previous studies have shown similar results. One, published in The Journal of Translational Medicine, found that the more closely people followed the Mediterranean diet, the less severe their symptoms became.
Dermatologist Álvaro González Cantero sums it up: “The key components of the Mediterranean diet reduce inflammation and improve related health conditions, which helps patients with psoriasis.”
Food isn’t a cure — but it can be a powerful ally
There’s no question: medications are still essential for managing psoriasis. But this study highlights a powerful takeaway — nutrition matters too.
With no major risks and clear benefits, the Mediterranean diet offers a simple, natural complement to traditional treatment. More research is needed, but the message is clear: with a few mindful changes to your plate, you could start easing symptoms — and feeling better — faster than you think.
Christelle Cherrier
Web editor
Passionate about words and driven by curiosity, I traded my career as a market research analyst for the sharpened pen of a web writer. For five years, I’ve specialized in health and wellness, delivering clear and insightful content. I’m endlessly fascinated by everything human—from the workings of the body to the mysteries of the mind. My goal? Making complex topics accessible, informative, and engaging—no prescription required!
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