Lifestyle Changes

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The following are some tips for maintaining a healthy diet:

• Eat a diet low in saturated fats. Not all fats are unhealthy. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, which are fat compounds found in fish oil, black currant or primrose seed oils, and flax seed, have anti-inflammatory and nerve protecting actions.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential acids. Medical research suggests they may have anti-inflammatory properties.

• Choose whole grains and fresh vegetables and fruits. According to some studies, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lower homocysteine levels, which are elevated in patients with SLE and may be a risk factor for heart disease. Researchers are also investigating compounds called indoles, also known as mustard oil, which are found in broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, collard and mustard greens, rutabaga, turnips, and bok choy. Indoles stimulate enzymes that convert estrogen to a more benign type. Eating vegetables certainly will not cure SLE, but they offer many general health benefits.
• Get most proteins from vegetables, particularly soy.
• Avoiding dairy and meat products may help protect the kidneys.
• Take extra calcium and vitamin D (this is particularly useful for patients taking corticosteroids).
• Supplements of vitamins B12, B6, and folate may be necessary, especially in people whose blood tests show high levels of homocysteine.
• Exercise is safe, but patients should not expect it to improve symptoms, including joint aches and fatigue.
• Restrict salt (particularly for patients with signs of high blood pressure and kidney disease).