Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the skin, joints and major organs. An autoimmune disease occurs when the body's own defense system attacks itself. An estimated 1.5 million Americans have the disease, 9 out of 10 of whom are female, but that number could be much higher since symptoms sometimes go misdiagnosed, according to the Lupus Foundation of America. Since 1 in 3 patients have heart disease, S.L.E. Lupus Foundation suggests limiting red meat intake for a better health outlook.
Heart Health
Not only do a third of lupus patients have heart disease, but a third also have coronary artery disease, reports the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation. Heart disease is a common cause of illness and death in this population. Cardiovascular disease is caused by inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart. Coronary artery disease is caused when arteries become inflamed, stiff or clogged -- often, a result of changes in the immune system. Following a healthy diet could help reduce the risk of developing these conditions. The American Heart Association explains that red meat is high in cholesterol and saturated fats, which can lead to or worsen heart disease.
Inflammation
A top concern for lupus patients who eat red meat is the increased risk of inflammation. Dr. Ronenn Roubenoff, an immunologist and chronic disease expert, says that unlike other foods, red meat and saturated fat are pro-inflammatory and should be avoided. A 2004 study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," linked red meat to developing inflammation of the arteries in women between the ages of 43 and 69 with no history of cardiovascular disease.
Incorporating Meat
There are ways of incorporating red meat into your diet. The AHA explains that consuming lean meat is OK as long as you eat no more than 6 oz. a day, which would be about the size of two decks of playing cards. Choose lean cuts of meat, such as round, loin or sirloin. Trim off excess fat prior to cooking and pour off melted fat after. In a 2007 "The Journal of Nutrition" study, researchers found that lean red meat does not adversely influence the risk of inflammation and oxidative stress.
Iron
Lean red meat is a good source of iron, which is especially beneficial for people with lupus since blood disorders are common, according to the LPA. Blood disorder specialists, known as hematologists, are often part of a lupus patient's treatment team. Anemia affects roughly 50 percent of lupus suffers and can be caused by an iron deficiency. The recommended dietary allowance for iron is 18 mg per day for healthy females and 8 mg per day for healthy males. A 3 oz. serving of beef sirloin has about 3.1 mg of the mineral, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Nutrient Database. Before taking supplements, however, talk to you doctor. The ODS reports that iron supplements may stimulate free radical activity and may cause inflammation in the blood vessels that lead to the heart.
References
- S.L.E. Lupus Foundation: FAQs
- S.L.E. Lupus Foundation: Heart Disease; Spring 2006
- The American Heart Association: Eat More Chicken, Fish and Beans; January 2011
- Lupus Foundation of America: Chat Transcript for Dr. Ronenn Roubenoff; November 2007
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Major Dietary Patterns are Related to Plasma Concentrations of Markers of Inflammation and Endothelial Dysfunction; Esther Lopez-Garcia; October 2004
- "The Journal of Nutrition"; Increased Lean Red Meat Intake Does Not Elevate Markers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Humans; Jonathan M. Hodgson; February 2007
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