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Psoriasis

A Functional Medicine Approach to Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a  skin condition that can occur at any age and affects both males and females equally and is considered autoimmune.Under usual circumstances, skin cells undergo a regeneration cycle spanning approximately 3-4 weeks. However, in cases of psoriasis, this cycle undergoes significant acceleration, with skin cells being replaced every 2-6 days. This rapid turnover leads to immature skin cells reaching the surface before they’re fully developed, thus impeding their timely shedding. Consequently, these cells accumulate on the surface, forming characteristic psoriatic plaques.

Psoriasis can manifest on any body part, including the scalp, elbows, knees, and nails.

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Causes

The cause of psoriasis isn’t fully understood. It’s considered an immune system issue where the immune system  mistakenly attack healthy skin cells, and stimulate the proliferation of keratinocytes.

Researches believe that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors contributes to the onset of this immune dysfunction. Individuals with a family history of psoriasis face an elevated likelihood of developing the condition. Psoriasis can also be triggered by various factors such as infections, cold and dry climates, skin injuries, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and sudden cessation of corticosteroid medications.

 

We know from recent research that there is now a significant correlation between the gut and psoriasis, indicating the potential influence of gut health on the onset and severity of the disease. The gut microbiome appears to differ in composition among individuals with psoriasis compared to those without the condition. Certain gut bacteria may affect immune responses and inflammation, potentially impacting psoriasis development. Additionally, studies suggest a possible association between psoriasis and heightened intestinal permeability, known as “leaky gut,” which could allow harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, triggering immune reactions and exacerbating systemic inflammation, thereby worsening psoriasis symptoms.

Other causes include

Treatment

In tradtional medicine, the initial treatment for psoriasis typically involves the application of emollient and steroid creams. For more severe cases, medications targeting the turnover of skin cells  may be prescribed.

At the London Centre for Functioanl medicne our approach entails a comprehensive and tailored strategy aimed at addressing the root causes of the condition rather than solely alleviating symptoms. Our experienced practitioners adopt a holistic perspective, examining factors like genetics, environment, lifestyle, diet, gut health, and immune system function. Through an integrative approaches such as nutritional adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and the use of nutraceuticals, they aim to identify and address the underlying triggers of psoriasis for each individual.

Our Approach

Optimal Nutrition and Absorption

Following an anti-inflammatory, nutritious diet has shown to be beneficial for Psoriasis. By emphasizing whole foods with anti-inflammatory properties, abundant nutrients, and a wealth of healthy fats, we are able to reduce inflammation related to Psoriasis.

Supplement Support

We recommend clinically validated topical and oral micronutrients, probiotics, and targeted supplements for managing psoriasis and enhancing skin vitality. Supplemental protocols are always customized based on patient lab results and what is driving the condition.

Testing

Our functional medicine practitioners can provide guidance on specialised tests for food alleries, environmental testing, gut health—includingmicrobiome testing—to identify underlying triggers that may be causing skin issues.

Targeted Treatments

Our practitioners can recommend additional treatment or lifestyle interventions that have proven effects to help you overcome psoriasis.

Our Client's Feedback

Cormac Whelan
Cormac Whelan
2023-03-26
Rob has helped me through a gut health conditon that no other GP was able or willing to figure out. There was no guess work involved. He got to the root of my issues through knowledge, testing and investigation. I would highly recommend the London Centre for Functional Medicine
Roger Hassan
Roger Hassan
2023-03-26
I can’t say enough good things about my experience at the London Centre for Functional Medicine. After 3 years of misdiagnosis and living with IBS I finally felt I was able to heal. I’m truly grateful to Rob for his expertise in SIBO. I have to keep things in check but I feel so much better. I would highly recommend them.
G Monkee
G Monkee
2023-03-22
For those seeking an alternative viewpoint to their chronic conditions, I would recommend the London Centre for Functional Medicine to others. They were helpful and mindful of my financial restrictions. Thank you.
Martin Beaumont
Martin Beaumont
2023-03-21
Working with the London Centre for Functional Medicine team has been a great experience. I have had big improvements with digestion issues and now live pain free! Having the support of Rob was very useful when questions or issues arose during the program and was particularly impressed with not going overboard with the supplement regime. Highly recommended!
Sean Hayden
Sean Hayden
2023-02-20
I'm currently going through treatment with Rob and just wanted to acknowledge the individualised and personalised care that has been provided. From when I started Rob has looked at my health issues without judgement and was able to help me in many areas that weren't optimal. Notably, Rob has helped me overcome gut issues and other niggling issues that I didn't were related but seemingly are. Rob is also great at explaining the body systems and related things which has been great. I can highly recommend the London Centre for Functional Medicine
K Kelly
K Kelly
2023-02-18
"What I appreciate about Rob at the London Centre for Functional Medicine is that he seeks to educate rather than just give supplements and instructions. He makes you understand both the action needed to take as well the underlying physiological processes driving the underlying issues. Highly recommended."
Aaron Robson
Aaron Robson
2023-02-18
If you're dealing with health challenges that conventional medicine hasn't resolved, I strongly suggest you visit the London Centre for Functional Medicine. They make a real effort to comprehend symptoms and worked with me to develop a plan for exploring treatment possibilities. Thanks to my practitioner, I now have answers to health questions that had eluded me for years, and I couldn't be more grateful. My practitioner (rob) uses a data-driven approach to identify the underlying cause. I've already recommended him to friends, and they have had success with his care as well.
Tracy Thomas
Tracy Thomas
2023-02-12
Rather than going to a GP when you are sick I entered the Functional Medicine journey before things got out of hand. It’s a route everyone should consider as it does prevent illness and can reverse it! I learned a lot about how my body works and how to become healthier. London CFM walked me through the things I needed to know by educating me about how the digestive system works and healing my SIBO. Thank you!
Lindsay Jones
Lindsay Jones
2023-01-08
I sought help from the London Centre for Functional Medicine for a problem I have had for most of my life, terrible digestive issues. Rob has worked with me to get back normal function of my digestive function. It has taken some time but the result have been great so far.
T Webster
T Webster
2022-07-16
I was originally referred to Mr Staunton by a nutritional therapist who felt that his particular expertise was required for my specific needs. After meeting him and explaining the situation, he conducted some lab tests which had to be shipped to Germany.. In the 3 months that I’ve been treated by Mr Staunton, I’ve seen a significant improvement in my symptoms and I’m feeling optimistic about my continued good health. I highly recommend the Clinic and working with Mr Staunton has been a very professional and pleasant experience. He’s extremely knowledgeable about both nutrition and how the body works.

Why Choose the London Centre for Functional Medicine?

Support

Once you reach out to us, the team will guide you through the collaborative process with a practitioner, We will gather the information we need to understand you better and help support and motivate you along your health journey.

Experience

We take the complex and try to make it simple. Many patients have gone to multiple doctors before they reach us. By taking a functional medicine approach, we can focus on the core imbalance and what needs to be addressed to improve your health picture.

Custom Approach

There is no one size fits approach as each patient is unique. Thus, no plan or protocol is the same. Everything about you including symptoms, lifestyle, diet, genetics and capacity to heal is different and will require a personalized approach.

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