Research investigating the impact of modified intermittent fasting (MIF) on the skin of people suffering with psoriasis has indicated a link between the gut and skin health.
A study presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Spring Symposium 2021 found a significant reduction in thickness of the skin in patients with mild psoriasis following a MIF 5:2 diet (eating normally for five days and restricting calorie intake on two non-consecutive days).
A total of 24 participants were enrolled in the study, with one group of 12 subjects instructed to modify their diet with MIF for 12 weeks, and the remaining 12 to continue their regular diet. Replicating the 5:2 diet, the fasting group were instructed to consume a total of 500kcal twice per week on two non-consecutive days but were free to consume their usual daily calorie intake for the remaining five days of the week. During the trial, two patients were excluded: one due to start antibiotic use and one due to unavailability to attend follow-up sessions.
The Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), a tool used to measure the severity and extent of psoriasis and Body Surface Area (BSA), did not differ significantly between fasting and regular diet, although PASI reduced in the fasting group. Furthermore, the fasting participants reported significant improvement to psoriasis during weeks six and 12, mentioning less scaling and thickening, with 30% of patients reporting a decrease in itching.
EADV board member and professor at the University Hospital of La Timone, Marseille, Professor Marie-Aleth Richard, commented, “The effect of dietary interventions on skin health is a stimulating field of research in dermatology. The results of this study add to the growing body of evidence being undertaken to understand the relationship between the gut and skin, with some promising results for patients and the management of psoriasis.”
The study will be completed at the end of June.
