What do I eat if I have Lupus?

There is not a magic formula that if you eat these certain foods then lupus will go away.  Since lupus is an autoimmune disease then the best method for your diet is to eat healthy. There are some foods to avoid if you have lupus that have been known to cause flare ups and foods to avoid or eat when taking medications associated with lupus. Bad eating habits can make it more difficult on your body to fight lupus.  Simply making changes to your diet can make a big difference about how you feel day to day and protect your body, especially your heart from lupus damage.

Certain foods that are important to avoid when eating a healthy diet are fried foods, fast foods made with oil and butter which are usually high in fat. Eating too much of these foods can increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke, and diabetes which will cause your lupus symptoms to worsen if your body is forced to compensate for two different conditions.  Caffeine is also important to limit or cut out of your diet because it can upset your stomach and not having it will give your stomach a chance to rest because most likely the medication your taking for lupus will be difficult for your stomach to handle anyway. Salt is important to stay away from as well because it will increase or worsen high blood pressure. Also, mixing alcohol with lupus medications even Tylenol can be dangerous to your health.

Good foods to focus on are having foods high in calcium and vitamin D such as yogurt, cheese, and milk to make your bones stronger because if you are taking a corticosteroid to treat lupus then this puts you at a higher risk for osteoporosis a disease that weakens your bones. Eating foods with alfalfa have been associated with reports of lupus flares which include muscle pain, fatigue, abnormal blood tests, changes in immune system, and kidney problems.  It’s important to eat low fat proteins like fish to keep your heart healthy. Also for heart health it’s important to have whole grains, whole wheat, and high fiber foods.

Overall, maintaining your health and focusing on eating foods that decrease your risk of cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and kidney disease will help to manage your lupus symptoms.

This article will provide important information regarding what to eat and important dietary tips for lupus. http://www.lupusny.org/about-lupus/newsletters/september-october-2005/healthy-eating-tips-people-lupus 

 

References: http://www.lupus.org/answers/entry/lupus-diet-and-nutrition