Sjögren's Syndrome

Anti-inflammatory diet: eliminate gluten, dairy, sugar, processed foods, focus on omega-3 rich foods (fatty fish, walnuts, flax), colorful vegetables, healthy fats, bone broth (gut healing), fermented foods (probiotic support), adequate hydration critical (many Sjögren's patients chronically dehydrated due to reduced saliva—drink water throughout day, carry water bottle), avoid: caffeine (dehydrating), alcohol (dehydrating, inflammatory), acidic foods if oral sensitivity (citrus, tomatoes, vinegar), spicy foods (irritate dry mouth), dry, crunchy foods (difficult to chew without saliva—crackers, chips, toast), increase: moist, soft foods (soups, stews, smoothies, yogurt if tolerated), foods that stimulate saliva (sugar-free lemon candies, tart foods—if tolerated), xylitol gum (stimulates saliva, protects teeth). Dental health critical (reduced saliva leads to cavities, gum disease—fluoride treatments, excellent oral hygiene, regular dental visits).

Eye care: artificial tears frequently (preservative-free drops every 2-3 hours), warm compresses on eyes (meibomian gland dysfunction common—improves oil layer of tears), humidifier at night (prevents overnight dryness), protective eyewear (wrap-around sunglasses outdoors—wind worsens dryness), omega-3 supplementation improves tear quality, punctal plugs (inserted by ophthalmologist—blocks tear drainage, keeps tears on eye surface longer), avoid: smoke, wind, air conditioning/heating (all worsen dry eyes), prolonged screen time (blink frequently—'20-20-20 rule': every 20 min, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds), Mouth care: sip water constantly, sugar-free gum or candies (xylitol—stimulates saliva), saliva substitutes (mouth moisturizers), humidifier at night, oral hygiene excellent (electric toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, fluoride rinses, regular dental cleanings), avoid: mouthwash with alcohol (drying), Medications that worsen dryness (antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, blood pressure meds—discuss alternatives with doctor), Stress management (stress worsens autoimmune symptoms), adequate sleep, moderate exercise, avoid smoking (worsens dryness and autoimmune disease), protect teeth (Sjögren's high risk for cavities due to reduced saliva—excellent oral hygiene essential).