Lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease of the skin and connective tissue. The body's own immune cells attack connective tissue structures.
The causes of lupus are not well understood. Hormonal changes, certain medications, smoking, and certain infections seem to promote the disease.
Early symptoms include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, bloating, swollen lymph nodes and weight loss.
There are two different forms of lupus. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) primarily manifests itself through skin symptoms. A butterfly-shaped redness appears on the face. This is why it is also called butterfly rash.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), on the other hand, affects the entire body. The kidneys, lungs and heart are particularly affected.
Lupus is primarily treated with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs.
Micronutrients can support the treatment of lupus.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects and promote cardiovascular health. They can therefore counteract the damage to blood vessels in SLE. [1]
Antioxidants
Oxidative stress appears to promote SLE and increase the risk of secondary diseases. People with SLE are also often not adequately supplied with antioxidants and have increased markers of oxidative stress. [2]
In SLE it is therefore important to ensure a good supply of antioxidants such as vitamin C , vitamin E, zinc and selenium .
Vitamin D
People with SLE are sensitive to light and therefore avoid the sun. This means they are at particularly high risk of vitamin D deficiency .
Vitamin has important functions in the immune system. It also has an immunoregulating effect and helps to curb inflammatory reactions.
Vitamin D is also important for bones because it promotes the absorption of calcium in the intestine.
Small studies suggest that taking vitamin D in SLE may alleviate symptoms and counteract blood vessel damage. [3] However, further research is needed.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is important for the immune system and also has an anti-inflammatory effect. Vitamin A is also needed for cell regeneration.
Patients with SLE often have low levels of vitamin A. Studies suggest that vitamin A can help balance immune cells, which may be helpful in autoimmune diseases. [4] Vitamin A is found primarily in animal foods. Liver is by far the best source of vitamin A.
Conclusion: Important nutrients are often lacking in lupus
Autoimmune diseases increase the need for certain nutrients. This is also the case with SLE. A good supply of anti-inflammatory nutrients can help keep the inflammatory reactions in check.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3113385/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29353100/
