The link between Lichen Sclerosis & the gut
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune skin condition that typically affects the genital and anal areas of women, leading to white patches, itching and discomfort.
gut health & autoimmunity
Research shows a connection between gut health and autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, including LS
The gut microbiome plays a key role in immune regulation. Imbalances in bacteria (dysbiosis) can cause immune dysregulation and systemic inflammation
Leaky gut or intestinal permeability, allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, triggering chronic, systemic inflammation influencing autoimmune responses
Food sensitivities and allergies, often starting in the gut, can exacerbate gut inflammation affecting autoimmune conditions
Nutrient deficiencies resulting from poor food breakdown and absorption can impair immune function and skin health. Ensuring adequate intake of vitamins A, D, and E, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc, are important for gut, immune and skin health
What to do about gut health & LS?
Try an anti-inflammatory diet, rich in well-sourced veggies, fruits, proteins and fats, and low in processed foods, refined sugars and alcohol, dairy and gluten to support gut health and help reduce inflammation
Also eat lower oxalate (avoid high oxalates foods and watch your daily threshold), which have been linked to flares
Probiotics and prebiotics can help restore a healthy gut microbe balance, potentially reducing inflammation and modulating immune responses
Gut-healing protocols based on testing to restore microbial balance, resolve infections, improve low flora, support detoxification, and heal the stomach and gut lining also lower inflammation
While direct research connecting gut health specifically to lichen sclerosis is limited (in fact, any research on this topic is limited), improving gut health offers significant benefits to managing LS symptoms, and even putting it into remission.