Lupus / SLE

Anti-inflammatory Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet: eliminate gluten (worsens leaky gut and inflammation), dairy, grains, legumes, nightshades, eggs, nuts, seeds for 30-90 days, then reintroduce cautiously. Focus on: fatty fish 3-4x/week (omega-3 for inflammation), leafy greens and colorful vegetables (antioxidants, nutrients), bone broth daily (gut healing), fermented foods (probiotic support), healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, coconut oil), organic meats (reduce toxin exposure), berries (antioxidants), turmeric and ginger (anti-inflammatory). Eliminate: sugar and processed foods (drive inflammation), vegetable oils (omega-6 inflammatory), alcohol (liver stress, inflammation), alfalfa sprouts (contain L-canavanine—worsens lupus), excess iron (oxidative stress—avoid supplements unless deficient). Some lupus patients benefit from: low-protein diet if kidney involvement (reduces kidney stress), low-sodium if hypertension or kidney disease, avoiding certain medications/supplements that worsen lupus (echinacea, immune stimulants). Adequate hydration critical (supports kidney function). Consider working with nutritionist familiar with lupus.

Sun protection paramount (UV light triggers lupus flares—wear sunscreen SPF 50+, protective clothing, hats, avoid peak sun hours, some patients photosensitive even indoors—fluorescent lights), stress management essential (stress worsens autoimmune disease—meditation, therapy, support groups), sleep 8-9 hours (immune regulation, healing), moderate exercise (maintains function, reduces fatigue—but avoid overexertion which triggers flares), maintain healthy weight, avoid smoking (worsens lupus, reduces medication effectiveness), limit alcohol (liver stress, inflammation), avoid infections (hand hygiene, vaccines as appropriate—discuss with doctor, infections trigger flares), medication adherence if on immunosuppressants (don't stop abruptly), monitor for complications (regular check-ups, kidney function, blood counts), vitamin D synthesis difficult due to sun avoidance (supplementation critical), emotional support (lupus unpredictable, affects quality of life—therapy, support groups helpful), pace activities (lupus causes severe fatigue—learn limits, rest when needed), avoid environmental toxins (clean home and personal care products). Women with lupus planning pregnancy: close medical supervision (lupus can flare during pregnancy, risk of complications—work with high-risk OB and rheumatologist).