Lupus and diet

Diet contributes to the overall health of people living with lupus, but it does not replace the treatments prescribed to control the disease.

There is no single diet suitable for everyone with lupus. Recommendations must take into account the individual's health status, current treatments, and any associated conditions.

Prioritize a balanced and varied diet

In the absence of a medical condition requiring specific recommendations, a varied and balanced diet is advised.

It is based in particular on a varied diet including fruits and vegetables, pulses, preferably whole or minimally refined cereals and suitable protein sources, while limiting very fatty, very sugary, very salty or highly processed foods.

A diet tailored to each individual

There is no single diet that works for all people with lupus.

Needs may change depending on age, physical activity, treatments, pregnancy, kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health problems.

When significant adjustments are needed, personalized support from a doctor or dietician can be helpful.

Adjust diet when undergoing corticosteroid treatment

Prolonged treatment with corticosteroids may promote certain adverse effects, including weight gain, increased blood pressure, blood sugar disturbances, or bone fragility.

In the context of corticosteroid therapy, dietary adjustments may be recommended, particularly regarding salt and sugar intake. However, this prescription must be tailored to the patient's individual characteristics (age, risk of diabetes, etc.) and the prescribed corticosteroid therapy (dosage, duration).

Osteoporosis prevention is also part of the management and may require, depending on the situation, particular attention to calcium and vitamin D intake.

These measures should be adapted with the doctor and, when useful, with a dietician.

In case of kidney damage

When kidney damage is present, nutritional needs may be different.

It is not recommended to undertake a restrictive diet on your own. Adjustments, particularly regarding salt, protein, or other nutrients, depend on kidney function, treatments, and individual circumstances.

Recommendations should then be established with the medical team and, if necessary, a nutrition professional.

Beware of restrictive diets and dietary supplements

Diets presented as being able to "cure", "detoxify" or suppress lupus should not replace medical treatments.

Similarly, dietary supplements are not without risk. Some may be ineffective, unsuitable, or interact with medications.

Before regularly taking a dietary supplement, herb, or product presented as natural, it is best to talk to your doctor.

Key points to remember

A balanced and varied diet contributes to the overall management of lupus, but no diet can replace treatment for the disease.

Dietary adjustments should be individualized, particularly in cases of corticosteroid therapy, kidney damage, or other associated health problems.

Very restrictive diets and dietary supplements should not be undertaken without professional advice.

This information sheet is for general information purposes only. It does not replace a consultation or personalized medical advice for diagnosis and follow-up.

Sources: PNDS Systemic Lupus in Adults and Children (2024) — Reference Centers / RAISE / FAI²R Network; Health Insurance (Daily life with systemic lupus erythematosus, recommendations relating to adult nutrition).

Content reviewed and validated by Professor Saïd Norou DIOP, specialist in Internal Medicine, medical advisor for TAHIRAH CARE.