High consumption of dietary saturated fatty acids (SFAs) has been shown to be a factor in increasing inflammation and worsening skin conditions such as psoriasis.
(1) An increase in consumption of SFAs sensitise cells to increase inflammatory signals, which in turn can activate proliferation (abnormal growth) of keratinocytes.
Saturated fat acids are drivers of inflammation according to many studies. It is well recognized that high fat diets contribute to obesity, arthritis and cardiovascular disease and that these are overt signs of dietary imbalance. For Psoriasis sufferers the introduction of higher consumption of these types of fats can be linked to the onset and increased risk factor of the disease.
Processed (hydrogenated) trans fatty acids (TFAs) have also been associated with driving inflammation in the body, so it best to avoid these types of fats as well. The FDA in the United States has made moves to completely ban the inclusion of processed trans fats (otherwise known as Partially hydrogenated Oils) in foods by 2018.
What food contain high amounts of Saturated Fatty Acids and processed Trans fatty acids?
What types of fats should I be consuming? The types of foods that are high in SFA’s are processed meats and deli foods, cheeses, full cream milk, and high fat meat. Trans fats that commercially hydrogenated are often in bakery goods, margarine, frozen oven bake items such as chips, pies, chicken nuggets etc.
What are the best sources of good dietary fats and essential fatty acids? As we all know, not all fats are bad for you. In fact, we need to get some important fats from the diet since our body cannot make them, which is why they are called Essential Fatty acids. Good sources of essential fatty acids come from nuts and seeds, avocados, olive oil, and fish.
- Herbert H et al. High-Fat Diet Exacerbates Early Psoriatic Skin Inflammation Independent of Obesity: Saturated Fatty Acids as Key Players. J Invest Dermatol. 2018 Sep;138(9):1999-2009. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.03.1522