When your own immune system attacks the tissues and organs of your body, this condition is an autoimmune disease called lupus. It is a chronic condition, and can affect many bodily systems, including your skin, lungs, heart and kidneys. While treatments for this condition include drugs like anti-inflammatories and steroids, dietary changes can be beneficial for your health as well. There is no cure for lupus, but you can make small changes to promote wellness and minimize symptoms. If you have lupus, talk with your doctor about your diet and what you can do to change it to reduce symptoms of lupus.
Step 1
Eat foods high in antioxidants, like green leafy vegetables and fruits like cherries and blueberries. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and may help boost the immune system.
Step 2
Minimize the amount of sodium in your diet. Some individuals with lupus experience fluid retention, and too much salt in your diet can make this worse, says the National Lupus Foundation. Avoid processed foods, as these tend to be very high in sodium.
Step 3
Consume calcium-rich foods and take a calcium supplement containing vitamin D. Corticosteroids are typically used in treating lupus, and these drugs can weaken bones and cause osteoporosis, says the University of Maryland. Calcium helps strengthen bones, and is better absorbed when vitamin D is present.
Step 4
Avoid alfalfa. The Lupus Foundation of America states that alfalfa has caused lupus-like symptoms in some people, including fatigue, abnormal blood test results, muscle pain and immune problems. This food may exacerbate lupus symptoms in individuals who already have the condition.
Step 5
Incorporate fatty fish like tuna or mackerel into your diet. These fish contain essential fatty acids called omega-3 fatty acids. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, women with lupus have a 5 to 10-fold higher risk of developing heart disease than the general population, and omega-3 fatty acids help reduce this risk. Omega-3 fatty acids may also help alleviate joint pain.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have lups, the University of Maryland suggests avoiding drinking alcohol, coffee and abstaining from smoking cigarettes. Participate in regular exercise. According to MayoClinic.com, exercise can help you recover from a lupus flare, help you fight depression and increase overall health and well-being. If you are having a flare, do not exercise outside in the sun, as sunlight can make a flare worse. Talk with your doctor about herbal supplements like astragalus, which may reduce an overactive immune system in patients with lupus, says the University of Maryland.
- Before making any major dietary changes, talk with your doctor about foods you should avoid with lupus and nutrients you should supplement with. Do not try to treat your lupus through diet alone. If you are having problems or abnormal symptoms, see your health care provider immediately.
