Let's talk about lupus & your diet. Everyone is guilty of buying groceries that aren’t the healthiest of options. Everyone should try to avoid eating these foods regularly, especially those with lupus.
Although there is no specific diet set for someone with lupus, most people with lupus will learn what their triggers and allergies are therefore know what foods to avoid.
Here is a list of foods that you may want to think about adding to your trolley next time you go shopping.
Foods rich in omega 3
Omega 3 has been shown to reduce inflammation and the risk of having a lupus flare up. They are also good at lower cholesterol level, which has a major effect on the health of your heart.
Fish – Salmon, tuna, mackerel, prawns and sardines
Nuts and seeds – Walnuts, flaxseeds and chai seeds
Plant oil – Olive oil and flaxseed oil
Tofu, yoghurt and eggs
Foods high in vitamin D
Most people with lupus will also have a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D helps to support a healthy immune system, so it is important that you try to keep within the recommended intake levels.
Oily fish – Sword fish and herring
Mushrooms
Egg yolks
Fortified foods – Orange juice, cow’s milk and some breakfast cereals
Antioxidant foods
Foods high in antioxidants are very good for every part of your body, so it is important that you always try to include them in your diet.
Berries
Beans
Pecan nuts
Turmeric
Dark chocolate
Leafy greens
Healthy carbohydrates
Many people say that a lot of carbohydrates is not good for you, however if you choose the right ones, they can have a very positive effect on your health. It is important that you stay away from the processed carbohydrates as these have little to no health benefits. Try to stick to the whole grain or whole wheat options.
Brown rice
Barley
Quinoa
Rye or wholemeal bread
Steel cut oats
Colourful foods
Foods come in all different colours, and research has shown that at least 5 servings of fruit or veg a day can help to bring down inflammation in the body
Spinach
Avocado
Strawberries
Raspberries
Kale
Broccoli
Blueberries
Citrus fruits – Lemon, lime and orange
Calcium rich foods
Some of the medications that are used to treat lupus can affect the body’s ability to absorb calcium. It is important that you include it in your diet to keep your bones and muscles healthy.
Dairy – Cheese, yoghurt and milk
Sardines
Broccoli
Soybeans
Dark leafy veg
Fortified foods – Orange juice and breakfast cereals
