Rajani Katta, MD discusses highlights from her lecture on Treating Obesity in Dermatology Patients at the 2021 Elevate-Derm Conference.
In this video
Dr. Katta walks through how to open a conversation about weight without blaming the patient — a topic she calls both sensitive and important, given that obesity can raise the risk for comorbidities and may worsen certain inflammatory skin diseases. Because research shows obesity is not a risk factor for developing psoriasis, she likes to tell patients, "it's not your fault, but it is your challenge." She suggests gently noting an increased BMI, asking whether the patient has discussed it with their primary care physician, and then taking cues from the patient about how far to follow up.
She also addresses the common patient question of what to eat to fight inflammation, noting there is no single food or supplement that combats psoriasis and that the whole diet and lifestyle matter more. While turmeric and omega-3 fatty acids get a lot of press, she points to fiber as "one of the most anti-inflammatory," along with anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, onions, ginger, and garlic.
- Approach weight as a sensitive but important topic — never blame the patient, and frame it as "not your fault, but it is your challenge."
- Obesity is not a risk factor for developing psoriasis, so lead with reassurance while still educating about comorbidity risk.
- Open the conversation gently: note the increased BMI, ask if it's been discussed with their primary care physician, and follow the patient's cues.
- There's no single anti-inflammatory food or supplement for psoriasis — the whole diet and lifestyle matter more.
- Fiber is one of the most anti-inflammatory nutrients; anti-inflammatory foods include turmeric, onions, ginger, and garlic.
