Lupus is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and pain across the body. It occurs when the immune system erroneously attacks healthy tissues and organs, which means it is an autoimmune condition. Unfortunately, there is no specific meal plan for lupus. That said, eating and avoiding certain foods can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications. So, let’s look at what foods to eat to prevent lupus flare-ups.
Flaxseeds
It is considered a superfood by many nutritionists. Adding flaxseeds to your daily meals can avoid or reduce lupus flare-ups to a large extent. The alpha-linolenic acid present in it has atherogenic properties that can reduce inflammation associated with lupus. The lignans present in flaxseeds are platelet-activating factor (PAF) – receptor antagonists that can also be beneficial in treating lupus nephritis.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, trout, and herring are rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and HUFA (highly unsaturated fatty acid), which are a type of omega-3 fatty acid. These nutrients are associated with decreasing inflammation due to autoimmune diseases like lupus. Other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce or avoid lupus flare-ups include Brussels sprouts, algal oil, chia seeds, walnuts, among others.
Whole grains
Metabolism plays an essential role in any disease management. In this case, a poor metabolism may lead to developing lupus. Refined grains reduce the body’s metabolism, which can increase the risk of lupus inflammation as they take longer to process. Nutritionists recommend eating whole grains like rye, barley, cracked wheat (bulgur), quinoa, and oatmeal as they are lighter on the digestive system and contain healthy fiber that aids in digestion, decreasing the risk of inflammation.
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Researchers believe that one of the reasons for autoimmune diseases like lupus is the lack of nutrients in daily meals. As the body processes the food we eat, it leaves behind free radicals. The rise of these free radicals in the body damages the cells, which can cause symptoms like swelling, inflammation, and stiffness, thereby increasing the risk of a lupus flare-up. Certain fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that kill these free radicals present in the body and repair cell walls, which can reduce symptoms associated with lupus. Some of these antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables include strawberries, blueberries, artichokes, avocado, radish, lettuce, sweet potatoes, and collard greens.
