It is known that weight can affect skin health. But new research suggests it’s not just about kilos, it’s about where the fat sits. A study led by King’s College London analysed over 330,000 individuals and found that belly fat, more than total body fat, sharply increases psoriasis risk. This finding shifts the focus from total weight to central adiposity and offers fresh strategies for prevention and wellness
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), psoriasis is a chronic, immune‑mediated skin condition affecting 2–3 percent of the global population. The study, published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, analysed 25 different fat‑distribution measurements in over 330,000 UK Biobank participants, including more than 9,000 with psoriasis. Waist‑to‑hip ratio, abdominal fat volume and waist circumference were found to be far better predictors of psoriasis risk than body mass index (BMI) . This places central fat as an independent and modifiable risk factor for skin inflammation.
Additionally, the study also found that this link was stronger in women, likely due to hormonal and immune-system differences. “Central fat, especially around the waist, seems to play a key role,” said Dr Ravi Ramessur, lead researcher. Professor Catherine Smith, who was also involved in the study, added that measuring waist circumference needs to become routine in psoriasis prevention and care.
Also read | What is psoriasis, types and symptoms of this chronic skin condition, home remedies to manage
Here are 6 practical ways to reduce psoriasis risk by focusing on belly fat:
- Measure your waist regularly: A simple tape-measure check can tell you more than scales. Aim for a waist circumference under recommended limits to reduce risk.
- Build core-strength workouts: Activities like planks, Pilates and resistance training help shrink belly fat and support metabolic health, both protective against skin inflammation.
- Cut out refined carbs: Sugary snacks and white flour foods encourage central fat accumulation. Switching to whole grains, protein and fibre supports both weight and skin health.
- Load up on anti-inflammatory foods: Vegetables, oily fish and berries reduce internal inflammation and support immune function, making flare-ups less likely.
- Stay consistently active: Regular movement, like walking, cycling or swimming, helps burn central fat and improves circulation, which benefits skin regeneration and health.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress contributes to belly fat and psoriasis flare-ups. Practices like meditation, adequate sleep and social connection help regulate hormones.
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