For people who are suffering from lupus is really difficult to establish “one size fits all” diet. The reason is that the disease is characterized by many different conditions. But still there are some guidelines that can help to these people. Most of the doctors recommend diet composed of 50% carbohydrates, 15% protein and 30% fat.
The Importance of Diet for Those With Lupus
Diet has a huge importance for our health actually it is the essential ting for being healthy. Researchers conducted a study in relation to the health of women affected with lupus. They showed that women with lupus between the ages of 35 and 44 have 50 times bigger risk for heart attack than the normal population.
Lupus patients are usually prescribed steroid medications such as prednisolone, dexamethasone and prednisone. Unluckily these medications have side effects and can increase cholesterol, triglyceride and blood sugar levels. Therefore it is important that the diet diet does not accelerate these symptoms.
The following are dietary no nos to keep your lupus in check:
Garlic
Garlic is excellent for boosting your immunity system and this is credited to 3 of its substances- allicin, ajoene and thiosulfine. But unluckily people with lupus can`t enjoy the benefits of garlic because they have overactive immune systems. If you are lupus patient don’t cook with garlic and avoid adding it to your food.
Alfalfa Sprout
Alfalfa sprouts is rich with amino acid called L-canavanine. This acid increases inflammation in people with lupus by stimulates their immune systems.
Foods High in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium
Reduce the consumption of beef, fried foods and foods that contain big amounts of saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. In this way you will lower the risk of chronic illness as cardiovascular diseases.
Alcohol
It is strongly recommended avoiding alcohol to these patients. Combining it with corticosteroids, Tylenol, warfarin and other lupus medications can be very harmful to your liver and stomach. And if you are taking methotrexate, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
The following is the food that you should consume to help your lupus:
Whole Grains
Consume enough carbohydrates that will boost your energy. Be attentive when you are buying whole grains in the markets and always read the nutrition facts. It is recommended to purchase gluten-free products.
Don’t use too much potato as a source for carbohydrates. They are nightshade vegetables and nightshade vegetables have been linked to osteoporosis. Sweet potatoes are better choice for lupus.
Raw Vegetables
There is no better snack than raw vegetables, since they have low amount of sugar and calories. But don’t consume them with vegetable dips. However if you can`t eat them raw, add the lighter dip like hummus and avoid excess fat and calories.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, nuts and flaxseeds. Omega-3s might be able to mitigate inflammation, boost your mood and improve your cardiovascular health.
Vitamin D and Calcium Rich Foods
To keep the bones healthy it is important to intake calcium this is especially important for patients with osteoporosis and osteopenia. Great source of calcium are almonds, broccoli, oranges, oysters and spinach. When it comes to the absorption of calcium, vitamin D helps a lot. The best way is to allow your body to absorb the vitamin naturally, but you can also take non GNC vitamin D liquid supplements as a substitute.
In the end before making changes in your diet always consult your doctor.
