Lupus is a chronic disease that is caused by an autoimmune disorder -- your immune system mistakenly attacks muscle, connective tissue and organ cells, causing inflammation. Lupus can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, fatigue, swollen joints, fever, nausea and depression. Although diet cannot cure lupus, certain dietary choices may help reduce symptoms.
Talk to your doctor if you plan to change your diet to address lupus symptoms.
Raw Fruits and Vegetables
A diet consisting of about 50 percent raw fruits and vegetables may help alleviate lupus symptoms, according to Phyllis Balch, C.N.C., author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Raw fruits and vegetables supply vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin A and zinc, which may help build immune system function. This may prevent bacteria, fungi and viruses from damaging muscles, organs and connective tissues.
Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which may help decrease tissue inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This may help decrease pain and swelling in your joints. Flax seeds may also help improve kidney function, which may reduce your risk of lupus nephritis, a type of kidney disease associated with lupus.
Lean Proteins
Protein is a nutrient that is necessary for the rebuilding of muscle and organ cells. It also boosts physical energy, which can help combat lupus-related fatigue. Opt for foods such as lentils, tofu, white-meat chicken and fish to add protein to your diet. Avoid red meats and dark-meat chicken -- although these foods are common protein sources in the typical American diet, they are high in saturated fats. These fats may reduce blood circulation, depriving your muscles and organs of nutrients necessary for proper function, according to Balch.
Gluten-Free Foods
Wheat and rye contain gluten, which may increase inflammation and pain, according to Balch. It may also cause your immune system to attack healthy digestive system cells, increasing gastrointestinal distress associated with lupus. Gluten-free grains and starches such as amaranth flour, rice, buckwheat flour, cornmeal and rice flour can replace wheat and rye flour, according to MayoClinic.com.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. et al.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Systemic Lupus Erythematosis
- MayoClinic.com: Gluten Free Diet
