Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys and other organs. It is an autoimmune disorder, which means it occurs when the immune system forms antibodies and attacks the body's own tissues. Symptoms of lupus vary but may include arthritis, kidney inflammation, fever, rash across the cheeks, scaling lesions throughout the body, mouth sores, chest pain and fatigue. A healthy diet can help reduce inflammation and support your immune system and, thereby, help you to manage lupus symptoms.
Foods to Emphasize
If you have lupus, you should try to eat a well-balanced diet that contains plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Phyllis Balch and James Balch, M.D., recommend in their book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," eating eggs, garlic and onions regularly because they contain sulfur, which aids in the absorption of calcium and is needed for the repair and rebuilding of bone, connective tissue and cartilage. Fresh pineapple may also be beneficial because it contains bromelain, which is an enzyme that helps reduce inflammation.
Consume Cold-Water Fish
The Lupus Foundation of America recommends consuming oily cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, trout, tuna and haddock regularly. These fish are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, which have been found to help reduce inflammation in the body. The omega-3s may also help regulate your heartbeat, and lower your blood pressure, as well as decrease your risk for developing coronary artery disease, which is a common secondary condition in lupus sufferers.
Foods to Reduce
According to a "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," you should consume a diet low in fat, salt and animal protein to support healthy kidney and immune system function. In addition, you should avoid the consumption of alfalfa. The Lupus Foundation of America explains that alfalfa contains an amino acid called L-canavanine, which can activate the immune system, increase inflammation and cause a flare-up of lupus symptoms such as muscle pain, fatigue and kidney problems. Nightshade vegetables, such as eggplant, tomatoes, peppers and potatoes, may also be problematic because they contain a substance called solanine, which can contribute to inflammation and pain. Finally, dairy products, caffeine and processed foods that contain sugar can all contribute to inflammation; you should minimize your consumption of these foods.
Consider an Elimination Diet
According to the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, many people with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, have unidentified food sensitivities and eliminating these foods can help to reduce symptom severity and frequency. You can try an elimination diet, which involves completely eliminating the most common food offenders including wheat, gluten, dairy, nightshade vegetables, red meat, strawberries, corn, soy, peanuts caffeine and sugar. After avoiding these foods for three weeks, you begin reintroducing them, one food item per day, and monitor for a return or worsening of symptoms, which would indicate a sensitivity to that food. Should none occur, then you can consider that food safe for consumption.
References
- Lupus Foundation of America: Diet and Nutrition
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, MD; 2003.
- Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; "Pathology and Nutrition"; 2008
