Madeleine Hull
Lupus is an autoimmune condition that affects the skin, tissues, joints, and organs. While there is no specific diet for lupus, eating certain foods and avoiding others may help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. An anti-inflammatory diet may help to regulate the immune system and calm inflammation. For example, the Mediterranean diet, which is primarily plant-based and includes fish, poultry, and dairy products, is associated with reduced disease activity and cardiovascular risk in people with lupus. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat meat and dairy products is generally recommended for people with lupus. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel can help inhibit inflammation.
Does an Anti-Inflammatory Diet Help Lupus?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recommended diet | Anti-inflammatory diet, Mediterranean diet |
| Foods to include | Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, low-fat proteins such as chicken and fish, eggs, mushrooms, walnuts, flaxseeds, canola oil, olive oil |
| Foods to avoid | Animal protein, foods high in added sugars, saturated fat, salt, refined grains |
| Supplements | Folic acid, vitamin D, curcumin, green tea |
| Lifestyle factors | Healthy eating patterns, maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising |
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The Mediterranean diet
While there is no specific diet for lupus, some research suggests that the Mediterranean diet may be beneficial. The Mediterranean diet is primarily plant-based, with lower levels of animal protein and higher amounts of plant-based foods than many other diets. It includes some fish, poultry, and dairy products, as well as extra virgin olive oil as the primary source of mono-unsaturated fats. The diet is based on the traditional foods of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including France, Spain, Greece, and Italy.
A sample menu for a week of meals on the Mediterranean diet might include Greek yogurt with strawberries and chia seeds for breakfast, a whole-grain sandwich with hummus and vegetables for lunch, and a tuna salad with greens, olive oil, and fruit for dinner. It is important to consume all foods in moderation, and there is usually no need to count calories or track macronutrients unless managing glucose levels.
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Whole foods
While there is no specific diet for lupus, some studies suggest that an anti-inflammatory diet may help manage lupus symptoms. Whole foods that are rich in nutrients and have anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial for individuals with lupus.
A whole-foods, plant-based diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables can provide essential nutrients and help reduce inflammation. In particular, green, leafy vegetables and foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are recommended for bone health, as lupus increases the risk of osteoporosis. Some good sources of vitamin D include salmon and other fish, eggs, and mushrooms.
Whole grains are an important part of a whole-foods diet for lupus. Instead of refined grains, individuals with lupus should opt for whole-grain options like rice, barley, bulgur, oatmeal, quinoa, and whole-grain breads, pasta, and cereals. These provide fibre and important nutrients, and can help protect against obesity, which is a risk factor for lupus.
Legumes, beans, nuts, and seeds are also recommended as part of a whole-foods approach to managing lupus. These foods provide protein, healthy fats, and other essential nutrients. In particular, walnuts, flaxseeds, kidney beans, and soybeans contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Dairy products, such as yogurt, can also be included in a whole-foods diet for lupus. Research suggests that a type of healthy bacteria found in yogurt and other dairy products may reduce disease symptoms in some people with lupus. However, it is important to limit saturated fat intake, so choose low-fat or non-fat dairy options when possible.
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Salt intake
While there is no specific diet for lupus, some research suggests that an anti-inflammatory diet may help regulate the immune system and calm inflammation.
When it comes to salt intake, there are a few things to consider if you're following an anti-inflammatory diet to help manage lupus symptoms. Firstly, it is generally recommended to limit salt or sodium intake when aiming to reduce inflammation in the body. This is because sodium can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, which can worsen inflammation. The kidneys are responsible for storing and releasing sodium, and any excess is released in urine. However, if the kidneys are overworked, sodium can build up in the blood, increasing blood volume and putting strain on the heart.
There are several FDA recommendations for salt intake based on age, weight, gender, and race, with many suggesting only consuming the sodium already present in foods and not adding extra salt. While sodium is an essential nutrient for nerve and muscle function, it is important to be mindful of its sources. Many processed foods, such as canned goods, processed meats, and salty snacks, are high in sodium and should be limited or avoided. Instead, opt for fresh or frozen vegetables and lean meats, which naturally contain some sodium but won't overload your body with excess.
Additionally, certain spices and herbs can be used to add flavour to your food without reaching for the salt shaker. Spices like turmeric, curry powder, and garlic not only enhance the taste of your meals but also possess anti-inflammatory properties, providing a double benefit.
It is worth noting that there is limited research specifically on salt intake and lupus. However, a mouse study suggested that a high-salt diet may worsen kidney disease in lupus. Therefore, if you have lupus, it is advisable to consult with your doctor or a dietitian to determine the optimal salt intake for your individual needs and to ensure your diet is balanced and nutritious.
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Weight control
While there is no specific diet for lupus, some general suggestions for weight control include eating a varied diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat meat and dairy products. Maintaining a healthy body weight is important for people with lupus, as excess weight can put more stress on joints and lead to increased pain.
- Keep a food diary: Writing down everything you eat can help make you more aware of your eating habits and identify areas for improvement.
- Develop a schedule for eating: Sticking to a schedule can help prevent overeating, especially if you are taking steroids, as they can increase your appetite.
- Shop with a list: When you go to the grocery store, shop from a list to avoid buying foods that may contribute to weight gain.
- Stay active: Physical activity is crucial for weight maintenance and overall health. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
- Choose anti-inflammatory foods: Opt for foods that fight inflammation, such as fatty fish (salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, etc.), nuts, seeds, and fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants.
- Avoid inflammatory foods: Stay away from trans fats, refined grains, ultra-processed foods, and added sugars, as these can contribute to inflammation and weight gain.
- Consider a Mediterranean diet: This diet is rich in anti-inflammatory foods, including extra virgin olive oil, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and polyphenol compounds.
- Seek professional guidance: Consult with a doctor or dietitian to get personalized advice and develop a plan that suits your individual needs and preferences.
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Supplements
While there is no specific diet for lupus, some supplements may be beneficial for people with the condition.
People with lupus may need supplements to get enough of certain nutrients, such as vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements are recommended for people with SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) if their levels are low, as this can help control the underlying lupus. This is because medications used to treat lupus can cause low vitamin D levels and bone problems. Foods that are naturally rich in vitamin D include salmon, eggs, and mushrooms.
People taking methotrexate for lupus may be prescribed folic acid supplements, as this medication can cause folic acid loss.
Curcumin, a chemical found in the turmeric root, has been found to improve kidney inflammation in lupus patients when taken alongside standard lupus medications. Green tea supplements have also been found to be beneficial for controlling SLE.
Polyphenol compounds, found in foods such as ginger, grapes, berries, and flaxseed, have been found to be beneficial in mouse studies, although they have not yet been studied in humans with lupus.
People following a vegetarian or vegan diet may need to take a vitamin B12 supplement, as this vitamin is only found in animal foods.
It's important to note that supplements can interact with lupus medications, so it's recommended that people with lupus talk to their doctor before taking any supplements.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no specific diet for lupus, but an anti-inflammatory diet may help to regulate the immune system and calm inflammation. A Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and fish, is often recommended as it is high in anti-inflammatory polyphenol compounds.
It is recommended to eat a well-balanced diet, complete with lots of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and protein. Eating fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, at least twice a week can help to provide anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Other foods that are high in omega-3 include walnuts, flaxseeds, and canola oil.
It is recommended to avoid foods that are high in added sugars and saturated fat. Greasy, spicy, and acidic foods should also be avoided as they can cause stomach upset and irritation. If you are taking corticosteroids, it is important to follow a low-sodium diet to help control blood pressure.
