Lupus Diet: Nutritional Strategies

A proper lupus diet can help reduce inflammation, improve metabolic profile and optimize immune function. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by systemic inflammation and damage to various organs.

Importance of Diet in Lupus

Several studies suggest that diet influences the progression and severity of lupus. The chronic inflammation associated with this disease may be exacerbated by certain foods, while others may exert a protective effect.
In addition, patients with SLE are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, so an appropriate lupus diet is crucial.

Essential Nutrients in the Lupus Diet

Ácidos grasos omega-3

Los omega-3, presentes en pescados grasos, semillas de chía y linaza, han demostrado reducir la inflamación y mejorar la función endotelial en pacientes con lupus.

Individuals who do not consume sufficient sources of omega-3 may consider supplementation of 1500 – 2000 mg EPA + DHA per day.

Vitamins D and E

People with lupus have an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency, so supplementation of 2000-5000 IU per day in the form of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) has shown benefits on inflammatory markers.
On the other hand, vitamin E also plays an important role in this disease. However, to cover its daily needs, it is sufficient to increase the consumption of food sources of vitamin E such as: olive oil, wheat germ oil, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds.

Unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)

Diets rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have been associated with reduced disease activity, as measured by the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), and improved lipid profiles, particularly HDL levels.

Recommended Nutritional Strategies

Low glycemic index diet

In this condition there is an increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases such as insulin resistance. The adoption of a low glycemic index diet can contribute to the regulation of glucose levels, reducing fatigue and promoting a healthy fat percentage.

Anti-inflammatory Approach

A lupus diet should include foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, whole grains and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. In addition, adequate intake of lean protein can promote cell regeneration and maintenance of muscle mass.

Lupus Diet: Summary

In my experience as a nutritionist, a correct lupus diet consists of decreasing the consumption of added sugars, preferring foods with a low glycemic index, with antioxidant properties and avoiding foods that can increase inflammation.
Also, including food sources of Omega 3, vitamin D, E and PUFAS helps to reduce inflammation and symptoms.

Written by: Nutritionist Andrés Izurieta

Bibliographic citations:

Medeiros MCS, Medeiros JCA, de Medeiros HJ, Leitão JCG de C, Knackfuss MI. Dietary intervention and health in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systematic review of the evidence. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2019.

Jiao H, Acar G, Robinson GA, Ciurtin C, Jury EC, Kalea AZ. Diet and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): From Supplementation to Intervention. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022.

Gilley KN, Fenton JI, Zick SM, Li K, Wang L, Marder W, et al. Serum fatty acid profiles in systemic lupus erythematosus and patient reported outcomes: The Michigan Lupus Epidemiology & Surveillance (MILES) Program. Front Immunol. 2024.

Islam MA, Khandker SS, Kotyla PJ, Hassan R. Immunomodulatory Effects of Diet and Nutrients in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): A Systematic Review. Front Immunol. 2020.