Prevent or Manage Lupus Flare-ups

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease; the most common type of the ailment is called systemic lupus erythematosus (or SLE). Symptoms include arthritic joint pain, debilitating fatigue, and dry mouth; a telltale sign is a rash on the face that resembles butterfly wings. Lupus can also damage organs throughout the body, particularly the kidneys. Although a mild disease for many, for some people, lupus can be serious and even life threatening.

Lupus is believed to be caused by a genetic predisposition, triggered by environmental factors, such as a virus; it may be worsened by other factors, such as sun exposure, infection, stress, and certain foods and drugs.

Nutrition Connection
Because lupus is an inflammatory disease, it helps to increase your intake of foods that fight and reduce inflammation and support overall health. However, it’s important to be aware of foods that may interact with certain medications. Here are some guidelines, but discuss any issues with your doctor or a dietician:
-Go for variety. Eat a variety of foods that are rich in antioxidants and nutrients. Foods such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower contain indoles which alter the metabolism of estrogen in a way that has a positive impact on lupus. Eating a colorful variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also protect lupus sufferers from heart disease in addition to providing essential nutrients.
-Add omega-3s. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, especially oily fish, which have anti-inflammatory effects and may help relieve the joint pain, soreness, and stiffness associated with lupus. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts, flaxseeds, and flax oil.
-Find sources of vitamin D. Because most people with lupus need to avoid exposure to the sun, they should make sure their diet provides adequate amounts of vitamin D. Good sources include milk and fortified soy and rice beverages. Vitamin D supplements are likely required.
-Seek calcium. Because steroids increase your risk of osteoporosis, consume plenty of calcium-rich dairy products, fish with bones, and dark green leafy vegetables, like kale and spinnach. Supplements may be required.
-Eat foods rich in vitamin E. Preliminary animal studies have found that vitamin E may slow the progress of lupus. The best food sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds, oils, and wheat germ. Talk to your doctor before taking vitamin E in supplement form. -Avoid alfalfa in any form. Even herbal supplements containing alfalfa worsen lupus symptoms; other legumes may have a similar effect.
-20% of people with lupus have a parent or sibling who already has or will develop lupus.
-Avoid or limit mushrooms and some smoked foods. These may also cause problems for lupus sufferers.
-Avoid foods containing psoralens. The majority of those with lupus experience worsening of symptoms when exposed to the sun or unshielded fluorescent light. Avoid foods containing psoralens, such as celery, parsnips, parsley, lemons, and limes, which heighten photosensitivity.
-Limit high-protein, high-fat foods. Many lupus sufferers note an improvement after they decrease the consumption of fatty high-protein foods, especially animal products. Some experts recommend a vegetarian diet that allows eggs, skim milk, and other low-fat dairy products.

Beyond the Diet
The following recommendations may help prevent or manage lupus flare-ups:
-Rest. The constant fatigue from lupus can take a toll. Get plenty of rest and sleep as necessary to let your body recuperate.
-Protect yourself from the sun. Avoid UV light by wearing a hat and protective clothing, and always use sunscreen.
-Exercise regularly. In addition to promoting overall well-being, exercise can help you recover from a flare-up, reduce your chances of getting heart disease, and fight depression.
-Don’t smoke. Smoking can lead to coronary artery disease. For those with lupus, smoking can greatly increase the risk of damaging your heart.

WARNING! FOOD-DRUG INTERACTION
Some medications that lupus sufferers take may interact with various foods. Watch out for:
• Grapefruit. Although generally rcommended for most lupus patients, do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice if you are taking cyclosporine, a powerful immune system suppressor. Grapefruit can dramatically increase the body’s ability to absorb cyclosporine, leading to severe toxicity.
• Sodium. If you are taking corticosteroids, cut back on salt. It will increase water retention and contribute to steroid-induced high blood pressure.
Stick to a medication regimen. Your doctor may prescribe NSAIDs or aspirin, antimalarial drugs, corticosteroids, or immune suppressors.