The following diet tips may help manage symptoms of lichen sclerosus:
1. Consider Adopting an Autoimmune Protocol Diet
There isn’t a recommended lichen sclerosus diet. But according to Cleveland Clinic, many health experts believe that this condition is an autoimmune disease and may also be linked to hormonal changes. So a diet designed to manage inflammation and triggers, like the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet, could potentially help with symptoms, Cleveland Clinic notes.
The AIP diet consists of an elimination phase during which you’ll remove grains, legumes, nightshades, dairy, eggs, coffee, alcohol, nuts and seeds, refined sugars, and processed foods from your diet.
According to Cleveland Clinic, you’ll maintain this diet for four to six weeks. From there, you’ll slowly reintroduce these foods to observe if your symptoms return.
This type of elimination diet can be tricky to do on your own, so it’s a good idea to enlist the help of your doctor or a dietitian to make sure you’re still getting the nutrients you need.
2. Add a Calcium Citrate Supplement
Since calcium binds to oxalates in your body, you may want to take a supplement if you don’t get enough of this nutrient in your diet. Be sure to speak with your physician first to determine if one is right for you.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. According to Mayo Clinic, doing so will help you stay hydrated and promote skin health, as well as flush out toxins. Aim to drink 11.5 to 15.5 cups of water daily.
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