Lupus or SLE

Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease. 

It can affect many body organs and tissues, including the skin, joints, kidneys and brain.

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for lupus. Medications are normally used to manage lupus symptoms.

There are some natural remedies that people with lupus can try together with prescription medicine. However, it is best to consult a doctor first.

Green tea contains a compound called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

For individuals with lupus, these antioxidant properties can regulate the immune system.

Lactobacillus strains, or commonly known as probiotics can support a healthy gut microbiome, producing a well-functioning immune system.

Lactobacillus strains also possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the production of proteins involved in the onset of lupus.

Omega-3 fatty acids are well known for their anti-inflammatory effects, making them potentially useful for lupus.

By helping balance the immune response, omega-3 fish oil supplementation may reduce lupus-related disease activity.

Many people with SLE have vitamin D deficiency. 

Vitamin D has regulatory effects on the immune system. 

One of the main sources of vitamin D is sunlight but sunlight can trigger lupus symptoms. 

As a result, it may be helpful for lupus patients to take vitamin D supplements instead.

References:

Aparicio-Soto, M., Sánchez-Hidalgo, M., & Alarcón-de-la-Lastra, C. (2017). An update on diet and nutritional factors in systemic lupus erythematosus management. Nutrition Research Reviews, 30(1), 118-137.

Cusack, C., Danby, C., Fallon, J. C., Ho, W. L., Murray, B., Brady, J., ... & Murphy, G. M. (2008). Photoprotective behaviour and sunscreen use: impact on vitamin D levels in cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine, 24(5), 260-267.

Duffy, E. M., Meenagh, G. K., McMillan, S. A., Strain, J. J., Hannigan, B. M., & Bell, A. L. (2004). The clinical effect of dietary supplementation with omega-3 fish oils and/or copper in systemic lupus erythematosus. The Journal of rheumatology, 31(8), 1551-1556.

Ramessar, N., Borad, A., & Schlesinger, N. (2022). The effect of Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in systemic lupus erythematosus patients: a systematic review. Lupus, 31(3), 287-296.

Shamekhi, Z., Amani, R., Habibagahi, Z., Namjoyan, F., Ghadiri, A., & Saki Malehi, A. (2017). A Randomized, Double‐blind, Placebo‐controlled Clinical Trial Examining the Effects of Green Tea Extract on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity and Quality of Life. Phytotherapy Research, 31(7), 1063-1071.

Toral, M., Robles‐Vera, I., Romero, M., de la Visitación, N., Sánchez, M., O'Valle, F., ... & Jiménez, R. (2019). Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716: a novel alternative for the prevention of vascular disorders in a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus. The FASEB Journal, 33(9), 10005-10018.