Inflammation and Diet

For people with lupus, inflammation can feel like a fire in their body. In this case, some foods can act like gasoline that adds fuel and makes the fire larger, while others act as an extinguisher that cools it down. Food choices are critical in determining how the body will react. Here is how food choices can calm lupus inflammation rather than trigger it.

Inflammation usually occurs when your body is trying to fight an unknown force, such as a virus, bacteria, or an injury. But in lupus patients, the body gets confused and starts fighting healthy tissue instead. To fight inflammation, your body needs nutrients. This is why choosing the right food with the right nutrients can help cool down inflammation while making sure it doesn’t get worse.

*Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.

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Large amounts of refined sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives in these foods are all things that may trigger the intestines to work double time to process them. An example of highly is packaged chips. They contain refined oils, excess salt, and high numbers of chemicals that may be used to produce one small bag of chips.

Foods with high sodium levels, like instant noodles, may promote inflation. For example, just one packet of instant noodles can contain very high sodium levels (397-3678 mg of sodium per 100g serving).

Sugar gives us energy, but when too much of it is consumed, it can trigger energy fluctuations and metabolic stress. Some examples of foods with excessive sugar are soft drinks and candies. Soft drinks contain high amounts of refined sugar that may disrupt metabolic balance. Sugary foods like candies, on the other hand, contain large amounts of simple sugar with little to no nutritional value.

Of course, all of these foods can be a guilty pleasure, so 100% refraining from eating them could cause emotional stress. Once in a while, there’s no wrong in consuming these, but when a lupus patient is trying to reduce the amount of inflammation in their body, consuming healthier food can be helpful.

Food like salmon contain omega-3 fatty acids and can help support heart health, which is particularly important since lupus can increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.

These are rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by inflammation. Consuming blueberries, for example, is excellent for protecting the cells. Oranges, since they have high vitamin C levels, help repair tissues and fight inflammation.

Olive oil and avocados can be a substitute for foods that contain a lot of fat. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, and avocados contain healthy fats and potassium all of these have also been associated with reduced inflammatory responses in the body.

It might be difficult at first, but consuming healthier, nutritious food can be very effective in reducing inflammation. It is important to realize, though, that dietary choices cannot “heal” lupus. Lupus is a complex autoimmune condition that requires proper medical care, monitoring, and treatment plans designed by healthcare professionals. Dietary changes should therefore be viewed as a complementary approach rather than a cure.

Mediterranean diet and inflammation: Foods that soothe chronic pain | Mayo Clinic

Eating Healthy When You Have Lupus | Lupus Foundation of America

What Should You Eat (or Avoid) if You Have Lupus? | Cleveland Clinic