Lupus is treatable and is often managed with medication and lifestyle therapies, including a healthy diet.
There are different types of lupus, withsystemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) being the most common.
Further, avoiding foods that promote inflammation may prevent disease symptoms.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Keeping bones and muscles strong.
Good nutrition helps to maintain bone and muscle strength.
Managing medication side effects.
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Weight gain is also brought on by inactivity, often a consequence of living with joint pain from lupus.
Reducing risk for co-morbid conditions.
How It Works
There is no specific set way of eating for people with lupus.
Additionally, making healthy diet choiceseven small onescan reduce lupus-related hospitalizations and increase the effectiveness oflupus treatments.
Duration
Diet changes will affect each person with lupus differently.
Some people will notice changes early, while others find symptoms improve slowly.
Of course, diet changes may not help some people at all.
For many people with lupus, diet changes need to be lifelong so that keep symptoms at bay.
EPA and DHA can reduce inflammation that leads to numerous medical conditions, including heart disease andinflammatory arthritis.
Garlic: There has been evidence suggesting people with lupus should avoid garlic.
Processed and refined foods: Examples of processed foods are ones that come in a box or a can.
These foods are often higher in fat, sugar, and salt.
Alcohol: You do not have to give up drinking altogether.
It is OK to have a glass of wine or beer every once in a while.
Salt: Eating too much salt isnt good for anyone and especially people with chronic health conditions like lupus.
Excessive salt consumption can also increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
But reducing salt intake doesnt have to be tasteless.
Recommended Timing
There is no specific meal timing recommended.
you might use the eating pattern that best suits your lifestyle or that you find works well for you.
A typical meal pattern is three meals per day.
check that you are checking labels and using salt or sugar sparingly as you prepare meals.
Use herbs, spices, vinegar, or lemon over salt.
You will also want to fill your plate with healthy vegetables.
Be mindful: Choose vegetables and fresh fruits whenever possible.
Or saute foods with healthy oils instead of deep-frying.
If you need help quitting, talk to our healthcare provider about the best ways to accomplish this.
Try brisk walking, swimming, water aerobics, biking, or using an elliptical machine or treadmill.
Commit to at least one activity every day.
You should also take breaks throughout your day to unwind and rest.
Manage stress: Emotional stress and other daily challenges can trigger lupus flares.
By finding ways to relax, you’re able to keep your stress levels in check.
Your practitioner or a dietitian can provide specific information about managing your weight and making healthy diet choices.
Additionally, these foods have been reported to increase inflammation.
), and red meats.
you could substitute saturated fats with healthier ones.
Because these fats are still high in calories, you should monitor the amounts used and consumed.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Anti-inflammatory dietsare based on the Mediterranean diet.
An anti-inflammatory diet also includes regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and prohibits fried and junk foods.
If they are, removing or limiting these foods from your diet may reduce symptoms.
You then re-introduce eliminated foods slowly.
This usually includes lean meats, fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
A Word From Verywell
Lupus affects each person with the condition differently.
Diet changes that work for one person may not work for another.
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