Natural Remedies for Managing Lupus

Looking for natural remedies to combat symptoms of Lupus? Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, leading to widespread inflammation and damage. It can affect multiple systems in the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, and lungs. With around 1.5 million people in the United States living with lupus, it most commonly affects women of childbearing age. Traditional treatment focuses on controlling flare-ups and minimizing organ damage.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Approach

Many individuals with lupus turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) alongside their conventional treatments to help manage symptoms and promote overall health. About 50% of those with lupus incorporate some form of CAM into their treatment plan. Below, we highlight key components of this approach, including vitamins, supplements, diet, and other natural remedies.

Vitamins and Supplements for Lupus

For individuals with lupus, certain vitamins and supplements can play an important role in managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health. These nutrients may help improve immune function and provide relief from some of the challenges associated with lupus. Here are some commonly recommended vitamins and supplements for people with lupus, along with references to support their effectiveness:

Vitamin D

• Why it’s important: Vitamin D helps support the immune system and may lower inflammation, which is really important for managing lupus.
• Recommended dosage: 2000-5000 IU/day (based on blood levels).
• References: Research shows that getting enough vitamin D can help improve symptoms in people with lupus and support overall health.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Mega D-3 & MK-7 5000 IU

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Why it’s important: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve joint health, which is helpful for people with lupus.
• Recommended dosage: 1,000 to 3,000 mg/day.
• References: Studies suggest that omega-3 supplementation can lower inflammation and may help with lupus symptoms.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Omega-3 1000mg

Vitamin B12

• Why it’s important: Vitamin B12 is important for making energy and keeping nerves healthy. Many people with lupus may not get enough of it.
• Recommended dosage: 1,000 mcg/day.
• References: Research shows that vitamin B12 can help improve energy levels and overall well-being in lupus patients.
• Recommended B12 Supplement: Garden of Life B12

Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

• Why it’s important: Folic acid helps with cell growth and repair, and it’s especially important for people taking medications for lupus.
• Recommended dosage: 400 to 800 mcg/day.
• References: Studies indicate that folic acid can help prevent deficiencies in lupus patients who are on certain medications.
• Recommended Supplement: Garden of Life Raw B Complex
  • B Vitamins are often synthetic even in some of our recommended supplement brands. See our natural vs synthetic ingredients page for more information.

Vitamin C

• Why it’s important: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells and may lower inflammation in people with lupus.
• Recommended dosage: 500 to 1,000 mg/day.
• References: Research shows that vitamin C can improve immune function and reduce symptoms of lupus.
• Recommended Supplement: Deva Vegan Food Based Premium Vitamin C
  • Vitamin C is often synthetic even in some of our recommended supplement brands. See our natural vs synthetic ingredients page for more information.

Magnesium

• Why it’s important: Magnesium is important for many body functions and can help reduce fatigue and improve sleep in lupus patients.
• Recommended dosage: 310 to 320 mg/day for women and 400 to 420 mg/day for men.
• References: Studies suggest that magnesium can help improve sleep quality and reduce tiredness in people with lupus.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Magnesium Citrate

Turmeric (Curcumin)

• Why it’s important: Curcumin, found in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce lupus symptoms.
• Recommended dosage: 500 to 1,000 mg/day.
• References: Research indicates that turmeric can help lower inflammation and support overall health in people with lupus.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Turmeric Curcumin

Recommended Diets for Lupus

Here are five diets that may be helpful for people with lupus:

1. Paleo Diet: Focuses on whole, unprocessed foods such as meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables while avoiding grains and dairy. This diet helps reduce inflammation and supports overall health.
   • The Complete Paleo Cookbook for Beginners
2. Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet: A stricter version of the Paleo diet, this approach eliminates common allergens and inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, and nightshades. It supports gut health and reduces autoimmune reactions.
   • The Autoimmune Protocol Made Simple
3. Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focuses on consuming foods that reduce inflammation, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like olive oil and fatty fish). This diet helps manage lupus symptoms by reducing flare-ups.
   • The Complete Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Beginners
4. Mediterranean Diet: Emphasizes healthy fats, whole grains, lean proteins, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables. This diet can reduce inflammation, support heart health, and improve overall well-being.
   • The Mediterranean Diet for Beginners
5. Plant-Based Diet: Encourages whole, plant-based foods that are high in fiber and antioxidants while being low in saturated fats. This approach can promote immune balance and reduce inflammation.
   • PlantYou: 140+ Ridiculously Easy, Amazingly Delicious Plant-Based Oil-Free Recipes

Each of these diets aims to reduce inflammation, support immune function, and promote overall health for those living with lupus.

Other Natural Remedies for Supporting Lupus Management

• Regular Exercise: Gentle activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can reduce joint pain, improve mood, and increase energy.
• Stress Management: Practices like meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing can help manage emotional stress, which is known to trigger lupus flares.
• Adequate Sleep: Ensuring 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night is crucial for managing fatigue and improving overall well-being.
• Acupuncture: Some people with lupus find that acupuncture helps reduce pain and inflammation while improving energy levels.
• Mind-Body Therapies: Techniques such as yoga, tai chi, and guided imagery promote relaxation and emotional balance, supporting both mental and physical health.
• Massage Therapy: This therapy may help alleviate muscle tension and reduce stress, promoting overall well-being.
• Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy has been studied for its anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a potential tool to reduce pain and inflammation in lupus patients. It may also promote tissue healing and reduce skin-related symptoms.
• PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Therapy: PEMF therapy uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation. Many individuals with lupus report improvement in joint pain, fatigue, and overall vitality after using PEMF devices.

By incorporating these natural approaches alongside conventional treatments, individuals with lupus can create a well-rounded plan to support their health. Always consult with healthcare providers before making changes to your treatment plan.

This website may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through them. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice; always consult a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.