Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

NUTRITION

• Heart healthy diet: As cardiovascular disease is a complication to SLE a heart healthy dietary pattern is recommended (1)

• Vitamin D: SLE is associated with reduced vitamin D levels. Supplementation has shown to reduce disease activity, fatigue, and improve inflammatory markers as well as endothelial function (1)

• Omega 3: Some evidence shows that Omega 3 fatty acids may reduce disease activity (1)

• Salt restriction: In patients with hypertension or renal disease (1,2)

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

• Regular exercise of 30 min or more 5 days a week is recommended (1)

SMOKING

• Smoking is associated with more disease activity (1,2)

• Smoking may reduce the effects of certain SLE medications including hydroxychloroquine (1,2)

• Smoking cessation reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, a complication of SLE (1)

SUNLIGHT

• Patients with SLE should avoid excess exposure to sunlight and use sunscreen (1)