LIVING WITH LUPUS

What should on do or not do if you are diagnosed with systemic lupus?

Diet should be low in fat, low in sodium, high in fiber, and low in refined sugars.  One should have a balanced diet that contains all the food groups.  If a certain food causes a flare up with a lupus symptom try avoid eating that food or foods.

Alfalfa sprouts are in the legume family and contain amino acid, L-canavanine.  This can stimulate the immune system in people with lupus and also increase inflammation.  Legumes are safe to eat that have a lower concentration of L-canavanine you can read the food labels and check the ingredients.

Vitamins are potentially dangerous and should be avoided, a multi vitamin is alright.

Exercise should be encouraged in people with lupus, mostly when the symptoms are dormant.  Walking, swimming, bicycling and other aerobic activity is good.  Moderation is the key do not exercise to the point of exhaustion.  Regular exercise is great for the body inside and out.

Fatigue is common when lupus is active and most of the time you will suffer from it.  Your body is telling you that you need rest.  During a flare up it is essential that you get enough rest so your body can repair itself.  This could include naps during the day, schedule modification and restructuring your priorities.  Adjusting to fatigue often takes time to pace yourself in order to accomplish the things you would like to accomplish throughout your day.  Achieving a regular aerobic exercise which will enhance your physical conditioning which could help with the fatigue.  One should avoid strenuous exercise if you have a fever or other signs of a very active disease.

Get plenty of sleep and when you are coming out of a flare you need to resume activity gradually.  Naps are great to revive yourself.  It is very important to get a good nights sleep so you are not overly tired during the day to the point of exhaustion.

Be sure to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.  If side effects occur make sure and tell your physician.  Make a point to understand what medications you are taking and what side effects they might have on your body.  Make sure you ask how long before you might see some results from the side effects as a result of taking the medications.