Iron Overload and Psoriasis: Understanding the Impact of Excess Iron on Skin Inflammation
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition with potential internal ties to elevated free unbound iron levels. At Clearskinlab.com, we believe in taking a holistic approach to skin health, considering both internal and external factors. Iron status is one of the critical areas we investigate when addressing psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Backing It Up: What Causes Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease, meaning that an overactive immune system causes skin cells to multiply too quickly. To uncover the root causes of psoriasis, it’s essential to identify what might be activating the immune system and driving inflammation. Research indicates that high iron levels in the body could be a potential trigger for psoriasis.
How Can High Iron Levels Influence Psoriasis?
Excess iron levels may:
Trigger rapid skin cell growth: Elevated iron might encourage the proliferation of skin cells, contributing to psoriasis plaques.
Increase inflammation: Free unbound iron can exacerbate inflammation in the skin’s outer layers and throughout the body.
Additionally, hepcidin, the hormone responsible for regulating iron, is often over-expressed in the epidermis (the outermost skin layer) in individuals with psoriasis. This can cause skin cells to retain more iron than necessary, potentially worsening psoriasis symptoms.
The Broader Impact of Excess Iron on the Body
High levels of free unbound iron don’t just affect the skin. They can contribute to:
Digestive issues
Chronic fatigue
Elevated inflammatory markers
These systemic effects underscore why addressing iron dysregulation is crucial for overall health.
What Can You Do to Manage High Iron Levels?
Blood Donation: The quickest way to lower elevated iron levels is through blood donation. This helps reduce free iron in circulation and can provide noticeable improvements for some individuals.
Support Iron Recycling: To lower iron stored in tissues, focus on nutrients that aid iron recycling, such as:
Copper
Vitamin A
Zinc
Monitor Your Diet: While cutting out iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, and eggs might seem logical, these foods also contain essential nutrients. Instead of eliminating them, balance your intake and prioritize foods that promote iron recycling.
A Real-Life Success Story:
One of our clients presented with severe guttate psoriasis and scalp psoriasis. Her initial labs revealed elevated iron levels. After donating blood, she noticed a dramatic improvement in her scalp psoriasis within days. This early success was a catalyst for her ongoing journey to better skin and overall health. While results like this are rare, they highlight the importance of addressing iron levels in psoriasis management.
Labs to Assess Iron Status
To get the full picture of iron regulation in the body, consider testing:
Iron, TIBC, and Ferritin
Transferrin
Ceruloplasmin
Copper
Vitamin A
Zinc
Magnesium RBC (Mag RBC)
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
These markers provide insights into iron recycling efficiency and nutrient balance, helping tailor an effective treatment plan.
Nutritional Support for Optimal Iron Recycling
To support iron recycling and reduce free unbound iron, focus on nutrient-rich foods:
Copper:
Citrus fruits
Liver
Shellfish
Mushrooms
Vitamin A:
Egg yolks
Fatty fish
Grass-fed dairy
Liver
Zinc:
Beef and poultry
Fish/shellfish
Eggs
Dairy
Vitamin C:
Citrus fruits
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Strawberries
Peppers
Supplements like beef liver capsules and cod liver oil can provide additional support when needed. These supplements are rich in bioavailable copper, vitamin A, and other essential nutrients.
Taking the Next Steps
If psoriasis has been a persistent challenge, exploring your iron status could be a game-changer. Elevated iron levels may contribute to inflammation and exacerbate symptoms. By optimizing nutrients that support iron recycling, you can lower inflammation and improve skin health over time.
Sources:
FNPI: Iron and Copper Metabolism
For more insights and personalized support, visit Clearskinlab.com.