Diet and Nutrition for Lupus Relief

If you have searched for information what to eat to help alleviate your lupus symptoms, chances are you've been disappointed with the results. Since lupus is an auto-immune disease, it's important to eat foods that help regulate and support the immune system, and avoid foods and ingredients that confuse it.

One of the unfortunate myths of our time is that eating fat is bad. But for a lupus sufferer, leaving fat out of your diet can be a recipe for flare-ups. The myelin sheaths that surround your nerves are made up of fat, and your cell walls are given strength and structure by saturated fats. Eating the right fats in the right amounts can help your immune system better regulate itself, reducing the instance of flare-ups.

Things to eat:
Antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, cranberries, and pomegranate.
Spices such as cinnamon, turmeric, and cloves. These spices are extremely potent antioxidants which can help reduce flare-ups. Cinnamon is also a very effective antiseptic.
Leafy green vegetables like spinach and greens.
Supplement with essential vitamins like A, B-vitamins, C, D, and E.
High-quality meats, preferably without any preservatives or solutions (Publix deli meats do not have any preservatives and are very fresh).

Things to avoid:
Avoid anything that claims to be "low-fat" as the fat is usually replaced with sugars and artificial fillers which can cause flare-ups.
Avoid any form of MSG (monosodium glutamate) which is also called autolyzed yeast extract. MSG and its cousins have been implicated in a number of debilitating diseases.
Sugars, caffeine, and processed wheat or corn flour. This means no juices except in very small amounts.
Foods that are old, canned, or processed.

If you're serious about using your diet to help your lupus symptoms, consider Dr. Atkins' low-carb approach. Many lupus sufferers have experienced dramatic reduction in flare-ups, improved energy, and decreased dependence on drugs. As long as your kidney function is good, you have every reason to look into the low-carb option. Delicious, satisfying foods, no sugar spikes and crashes, and a healthy weight. As always, do your own research first: read the book Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution and consult with your health-care provider.