Lupus Diet: Can It Be Cured Through Food?

Dietary changes cannot cure lupus.

However, diet may play a key role in managing the chronic disorder. LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers home-delivery meal options that support a lupus diet.

Understanding Lupus and the Role of Diet

Lupus has a profound impact on your immune system and overall wellness. 

Taking control of your diet allows you to have greater control over the common symptoms and side effects of lupus and other autoimmune disorders.

What Is Lupus and How Does It Affect the Body?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue within the body mistakenly. 

You may experience physical characteristics of lupus. For example, some people have lupus rashes, most commonly in a butterfly shape on the cheeks and bridge of the nose.

Studies have shown that “[s]ystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune, multisystemic disease which may affect virtually any organ in the body and encompass a wide spectrum of severity, ranging from relatively mild manifestations (e.g. skin rash or non-erosive arthritis) to seriously disabling or even life threatening complications, such as lupus nephritis, neuropsychiatric disorders and other major organ involvements.”

In addition, systemic lupus erythematosus “can affect almost every organ, most prominently and devastatingly the kidney and the central nervous system (CNS).”

How Does Lupus Impact Daily Life and Well-Being?

Lupus may impact your daily life and wellness in many ways, including: 

• Chronic pain 
• Joint pain and discomfort that impact mobility 
• Extreme fatigue 
• Symptom flare-ups
• Inability to work full-time
• Cognitive issues, such as confusion and memory problems
• Increased risk of mental health problems 
• Changes to skin and appearance
• Chronic organ inflammation 
• Increased risk of kidney disease and other conditions 

You may find yourself feeling socially isolated, unable to work, or struggling to make ends meet due to the effects of lupus. Your care team can provide medical advice and additional information on how lupus may impact your daily life.

LifeSpring Home Nutrition supports a lupus diet with a variety of immune-boosting meals delivered straight to your door each week.

Can Diet Influence Lupus Symptoms and Flares?

Yes, diet may impact lupus symptoms and cause or reduce flares. 

Diet directly affects inflammation throughout the body and the function of organs. Lupus causes strain and damage to organs, leading to chronic inflammation. Using diet to address these symptoms can protect you from more severe symptoms, complications, or side effects.

The Connection Between Nutrition and Lupus Management

Nutrition directly affects lupus management by increasing or decreasing inflammation within the body and affecting other symptoms. 

Unhealthy foods may contribute to experiencing flares, and foods recommended for you may reduce the risk of flares and symptoms. Successful lupus management increases quality of life by giving you back control of your health and wellness.

How Does the Immune System Respond to Certain Foods?

Some foods you eat may activate the immune system and cause increased inflammation, while other foods may decrease inflammation.

Inflammatory triggers can cause a flare or other issues.

A few of the most common food inflammation triggers include: 

• Saturated fat and trans fat
• Garlic
• Processed foods, such as processed meats
• High sugar intake
• Excessive sodium 
• Foods that increase cholesterol 
• Various forms of amino acid, such as L-canavanine
• Red meat is associated with an increased risk of heart disease

Anti-inflammatory foods include: 

• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Fruits, vegetables, and other good carbohydrates 
• Probiotic yogurt and other foods rich in antioxidants 
• Vitamin D
• Taurine
• Low-fat foods and healthy fats
• Flaxseed, olive oil, and nuts
• Polyphenols like those found in veggies, herbs, and spices

Generally, no single ingredient will cause or stop a flare. For example, low-fat dairy products may reduce inflammation by increasing vitamin D and other vital nutrients when used in moderation alongside other healthy foods.

You must look at your overall diet and collaborate with a medical professional to determine if you might benefit from eliminating or adding specific foods to your diet.

Key Foods That May Benefit People With Lupus

Healthy eating can reduce inflammation and disease activity.

Introducing nutrients that support a lupus diet makes it easier for you to avoid flares and other health issues.

What Are the Best Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Some of the best sources of omega-3s include: 

• Sardines
• Fatty fish
• Mackerel

LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers a diverse menu, including fish-centric meals like salmon and tilapia.

How Do Antioxidants Support the Immune System?

Antioxidants neutralize unstable molecules and damaged cells that can cause oxidative stress. 

You can find antioxidants in berries, vegetables, whole wheat and other whole grains, fresh fruits, and other foods. Antioxidants protect immune cells and improve immune function.

Foods and Ingredients Lupus Patients May Want To Limit

Specific foods may trigger your lupus flares.

For example, alfalfa sprouts and nightshade vegetables may increase your risk of inflammation and lupus flares. By limiting or eliminating these foods in your diet, you can avoid the adverse side effects.

How Does Saturated Fat Affect Heart Disease Risk?

“Bad” forms of cholesterol, including those caused by saturated fats, can increase your risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease.

Eliminating processed foods and other sources of saturated fats improves your heart and immune health by causing less strain on your body systems.

Special Considerations for Lupus-Related Conditions

You and your healthcare provider can work together to determine what special considerations you will need to keep in mind moving forward. 

Lupus-related conditions may cause a wide range of potential symptoms and side effects that you must manage using diet planning and other tools.

How Can Diet Support Kidney Health in Lupus Nephritis?

You can support kidney health with lupus nephritis by doing the following: 

• Limiting sodium intake
• Monitoring water retention
• Avoiding processes or ultra-processed foods 
• Managing blood pressure 
• Controlling protein intake

LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers meals that boost the immune system and support kidney health.

What Role Do Calcium and Vitamin D Play in Preventing Osteoporosis?

Calcium directly contributes to bone density and strength. 

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, ensuring bones remain healthy. Many healthy foods provide the recommended amount of vitamin D and calcium.

Osteoporosis often occurs if your body lacks the necessary nutrients to support healthy bone density and strength. LifeSpring Home Nutrition uses nutraceuticals to enrich foods and increase the amount of vitamins and minerals in each dish.

How Can Nutrition Help Manage High Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease?

Balanced meals and proper nutrition can help you manage high blood pressure and the risk of heart disease by doing the following: 

• Reducing sodium and saturated fats in daily meals
• Incorporating lean meats, healthy fats, and whole foods
• Ensuring you get the recommended amount of key nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, iron, omega-3s, and fiber 

Eating nutritional meals gives your heart and cardiovascular system the support it needs to stay strong, healthy, and functioning.

Supplements and Lupus Management

Many people use supplements to incorporate more essential vitamins and minerals into their diet.

Not everyone needs supplements, and you should only use supplements under the guidance of your primary care provider. Some supplements may interfere with medications.

Which Supplements May Benefit Lupus Patients?

Multiple supplements used under the guidance of a doctor can improve your health and wellness if you have a form of lupus, including: 

• Vitamin D regulates the immune system and reduces inflammation 
• Omega-3 fatty acids to improve cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation 
• Calcium to minimize the risk of osteoporosis

You should avoid some supplements that may cause flares, including echinacea and other immune-boosting supplements.

Lupus involves an overactive immune system. Adding immune-boosting supplements can significantly worsen symptoms. The possible side effects of certain supplements make it critical for you to only take them under the supervision of a medical professional who has a complete understanding of your condition and current medications.

Should Lupus Patients Consult a Registered Dietitian Before Taking Supplements?

Yes, you should consult with someone familiar with your medical history before using any supplements or over-the-counter medications. 

Your primary care doctor will have the most accurate information about your condition. However, you can also get guidance and recommendations on supplements from other medical sources, including RDs and nutritionists.

LifeSpring Home Nutrition has a registered dietitian you can speak with about your case to help you determine if you may benefit from additional supplements with your weekly meal deliveries. It is also vital for you to communicate these changes to your primary care doctor if you begin taking a new supplement.

Building a Lupus-Friendly Eating Plan

You can choose from multiple dietary plans to manage your condition.

Every form of lupus requires different types of dietary changes. Plant-based meals support heart health for many people with lupus. The Mediterranean diet is especially popular and can help some lupus patients maintain a diet that includes lots of vegetables, legumes, beans, healthy fats and oils, and lean meats.

LifeSpring Home Nutrition has Mediterranean meals and offers medically tailored meals to ensure each dish meets your specific dietary needs. You can work with a dietitian or other expert to create a comprehensive eating plan.

What Are Some Practical Tips for Healthy Eating With Lupus?

You can easily change your diet to eat healthier with lupus by doing the following: 

• Using whole grains, including whole wheat bread or pasta, brown rice, and oatmeal
• Replacing red meat and processed meats with lean meats and healthy proteins, such as poultry, seafood, nuts, and beans 
• Using healthy fats like avocados, fish, olive oil, and nuts

Replacing unhealthy foods with healthy alternatives will improve your diet and reduce stress on your immune system.

Lifestyle Habits That Work Alongside a Healthy Diet

You can use lifestyle changes, quality sleep, corticosteroids and other medical interventions, physical activity, and alternative holistic treatments alongside diet plans to manage your lupus symptoms. 

Addressing all active and underlying issues impacting your physical and emotional health will boost your immune system by lowering stress.

How Can Regular Physical Activity Support Joint Health and Weight Management?

Physical activity improves joint health, muscle strength, energy levels, stamina, and heart health.

Regular physical activity also reduces the risk of unwanted weight gain or obesity and encourages weight loss.

Some forms of activity may be difficult for your body or cause flares. You should work with your care team to determine the best way to remain active without triggering inflammation or other symptoms of lupus.

Why Is Stress Management Important for Lupus Patients?

Stress negatively impacts the immune system, chronic pain, and mental health, which may trigger flares.

You can use stress management techniques to regain control of your emotional and physical responses to stressful situations and everyday stressors. Adopting stress management strategies allows you to enhance your overall well-being.

LifeSpring Home Nutrition reduces some daily stressors by eliminating the need to grocery shop, prepare meals, and clean up after eating. Weekly meal deliveries provide convenient, flexible options that fit your needs and allow you greater control over your daily routines.

How Can Sleep and Rest Influence Lupus Symptoms?

Sleep directly affects the body’s immune system, chronic pain, mental health, fatigue, and symptoms of lupus. 

According to Lupus, “Both quality and quantity of sleep have been shown to have significant impacts on health, including increased risk of metabolic diseases, hypertension, and mortality.” In addition, “Both acute and chronic sleep disturbances and deprivation have reported associations with increased inflammatory markers.”

When to Seek Professional Guidance

A registered dietitian or nutritionist can help you create a sustainable and achievable lupus diet plan that fits your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

You may need to see a rheumatologist or healthcare provider if you have more severe symptoms or struggle to manage your condition.

What Questions Should You Ask About Lupus Treatment and Nutrition?

Ask your healthcare provider about any aspect of lupus and diet that you may feel uncertain about or want clarification on. 

Some common questions people ask healthcare professionals about lupus include: 

• What are the possible side effects of medications?
• Can certain foods interfere with the effects of medications? 
• What are the signs of a lupus flare?
• How can you tell if symptoms are getting better or worse?
• What is the long-term outcome for people diagnosed with lupus?

Lupus cannot be cured through food alone. However, a balanced diet can improve your quality of life with lupus.

What Are the Next Steps Toward Better Lupus Management?

Once you have a support system in place and understand how best to accommodate your specific condition, you can research resources to help you maintain a healthy lupus diet.

Maintaining a consistent meal plan, remaining in frequent contact with your primary care provider, updating meal plans as symptoms change, and using resources like the official website for the Lupus Foundation of America can help you better manage your condition.

You may benefit from using LifeSpring Home Nutrition as a local resource to expand your meal options and ensure optimum nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lupus And Diet

Below are some frequently asked questions about how to maintain a healthy lupus diet.

Can certain foods completely prevent lupus flares?

No specific foods prevent lupus flares.

Instead, a series of dietary and lifestyle changes alongside expert care reduces the risk of flares and makes it easier for you to manage your condition. You can work with your care provider to create a meal plan that best addresses your specific form of lupus to reduce the severity or frequency of flares.

Is the Mediterranean diet safe for all lupus patients?

No. Not all people with lupus can safely eat the Mediterranean diet. 

Some people may notice positive changes or no change at all while on the diet. However, you may experience adverse side effects if you eat a Mediterranean diet and fail to eliminate foods that trigger flares, including garlic or alfalfa sprouts.

Are there any clinical trials linking diet to lupus remission?

Researchers have not linked any specific diet to lupus remission.

Rheumatology experts and other professionals must address many factors to achieve remission from lupus. A balanced diet can help stabilize your condition and make it easier to treat.

According to Lupus, “In a recent systematic review, [researchers] observed that diets abundant in vegetables, fruits and fibre reduced joint pain in [rheumatoid arthritis], while diets rich in meat and dairy exacerbated joint inflammation.”

Meals from LifeSpring Home Nutrition give you easy access to convenient and delicious meals rich in vegetables, fruits, and fiber.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease impacting multiple body systems. LifeSpring Home Nutrition can help you manage your lupus symptoms and side effects with healthy dietary changes. To learn more about our services and how we can support your health and safety, call our office today at (800) 798-5767.