Hear+Now: Anti-Inflammatory Eating For Lupus
Can what you eat really help tame lupus flare-ups? The short answer is yes. But don't worry—we aren't talking about expensive organic hauls or complex recipes. In this audio digest, we break down the science of anti-inflammatory foods and their impact on long-term health for lupus warriors. From protecting your heart to saving money at the checkout line, tune in for a guide on fueling your body without the stress. Because navigating life with lupus is about more than just managing symptoms. It’s about finding a routine that works for you.
This audio digest was generated with the assistance of an AI tool and has been reviewed by our Editorial Team. This information is provided for general knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Transcript:
Today we want to talk about lupus, and how the foods we eat can play a role in managing this complex autoimmune disease.
We know that with Lupus, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation can affect your joints, skin, kidneys, heart, and other organs. While medication is often essential for managing lupus, many people don't realize that diet can be a powerful tool in reducing this underlying inflammation. Diet may also help reduce the number and strength of lupus flare-ups.
So what foods can help? Think colorful fruits and vegetables. Berries like blueberries and strawberries have antioxidants that can fight inflammation. Citrus fruits like oranges provide vitamin C and flavonoids. Green leafy vegetables - kale, spinach, arugula - are nutritional powerhouses. And don't forget about healthy fats. Walnuts, pecans, and omega-3 rich foods like salmon, flaxseed, and olive oil may help reduce inflammation.
On the flip side, there are foods that can actually increase inflammation. Red meat, processed foods, fried foods, and sugary drinks can all worsen inflammatory responses. This is particularly important because lupus can cause an increased risk of heart disease, and these pro-inflammatory foods can compound that risk.
Now, you might be thinking eating healthy can be expensive. But cutting back on meat may actually save you money while reducing inflammation. Plant-based proteins like beans and lentils can cost a fraction of what meat does. And instead of buying expensive supplements containing turmeric and other anti-inflammatory ingredients, you could just get these spices at the store and add them to your cooking instead.
Before making any significant dietary changes, it's important to consult with your doctor. Your healthcare team can help you create a plan that works with your medications and specific health needs. Diet is meant to complement, not replace, medical treatment.
Making lifestyle changes can be overwhelming. It might be helpful to introduce changes one at a time. Also, make changes you can stick with. Consistency is key. If you do not know where to start, you can also ask for help from a certified dietician, who can create a personalized eating plan based on your needs.
Small changes in what we eat can have meaningful impacts on how we feel, and eating healthy foods can be one way to help control lupus.
The information discussed in this audio digest was originally published in the following articles:
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