Known as the Christmas Tree Rash, Pityriasis Rosea is a common rash characterized by a fine, itchy, and scaly rash on the back, stomach, or chest area. It usually begins with a large circular or oval patch (called a herald patch) and then develops additional sweeping spots that resemble a pine tree. Although the rash can come and go over a six to eight-week period, your diet may have an impact on how frequently the condition appears and how long it lasts. However, the available science is not conclusive.
Pityriasis Rosea Foods to Avoid
Despite plenty of testing and attention, current research confirming a reliable relationship between diet and the intensity or frequency of Pityriasis Rosea doesn’t yet exist. There have been indirect studies that suggest that an anti-inflammatory diet may reduce itching. Likewise, eating foods rich in antioxidants versus processed foods may help. This is in line with a common belief that Pityriasis Rosea reacts to oxidative stress, an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body. When the body’s intake is flushed with antioxidants, the opposite is expected.
Another commonly discussed diet that aims to help with inflammation is the autoimmune protocol (AIP). It is based on the idea that certain foods inflame your gut, and eliminating them may ease autoimmune symptoms. The AIP diet focuses on eating nutritious whole foods that won’t cause allergic reactions or internal inflammation. Also, reducing sugar, preservatives, salt, and similar offenders are a part of the AIP diet.
Do Supplements Work? It Depends
Dietary supplements also have not been associated with any confirmed impact on Pityriasis Rosea. While there are plenty of products available in the supplement, minerals, and vitamins market and lots of marketing that hints at a relationship, no research currently supports a direct positive benefit from any related products for the skin condition.
Some research supports the use of Vitamin D for skin improvement and reduces itchy skin, particularly with eczema. That particular skin problem is well known for producing skin patches that are red, irritated, itchy, and break out into open wounds with scratching. Vitamin D in specific amounts consistently taken daily has proven to reduce eczema symptoms in patients.
Natural Additives Have an Indirect Impact
Fish oil, a natural derivative supplement, also has general positive benefits for the skin. In addition, limited research has shown success in using fish oil as a supplement to offset the itchiness of dry skin.
Finally, bilberry and turmeric plants are said to reduce skin itching as topicals or as compounds. Again, however, there was not a direct application to Pityriasis Rosea symptoms.
No surprise, there’s a lot of subjective information on the topic of Pityriasis Rosea, food and effects, but not a lot of clear direction. At Valley Skin Institute, we understand your confusion and can help. We regularly provide patients from all backgrounds and skin conditions, including Pityriasis Rosea, with help with how to purchase skincare and how to choose dietary approaches for better health results. Call us to find out more and schedule an appointment. You may be surprised at how much we can do.
