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lupus: healthy eating

overview

to date, no diet is known to cure, prevent, or relieve lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, or sle) symptoms. but poor nutrition makes it harder for your body to battle chronic illness. to make sure that you have a healthful, balanced diet, your doctor may oversee your food intake or refer you to a registered dietitian. consider the following tips when you plan your daily diet:

  • avoid or cut down on caffeine. reducing caffeine intake improves sleep and can diminish the stomach upset caused by some of the drugs prescribed for lupus care.
  • follow a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. this type of diet may make you less vulnerable to conditions—especially heart disease—that are linked with lupus and the steroid treatment of lupus.
  • get enough calcium and vitamin d in your diet. if you are taking corticosteroids to treat lupus, you are at risk for osteoporosis.
  • if you have kidney disease, follow your doctor's or registered dietitian's advice about protein and salt intake.
  • get your vitamins and minerals. a balanced diet should give you enough vitamins and minerals. but you may need supplements if your appetite is poor or to counteract the effects of certain medicines (for example, extra calcium while taking corticosteroids). do not take supplements without your doctor's or dietitian's guidance.

credits

current as of: september 20, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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