I would like to know what foods to stay away from and what foods may help people diagnosed with autoimmune diseases. What is a good diet regimen for this diagnosis? Are there any foods that are harmful or that should be totally avoided by lupus patients?

Answer
Lupus patients should avoid alfalfa sprouts. They stimulate the immune system, just the opposite of what we need.

Outside of that, here are some basic guidelines that work for me.

1. Eat lots, and I mean lots, of fresh fruits and vegetables
2. Limit or eliminate animal fat. We have a high rate of premature atherosclerosis. A healthy heart diet is essential.
3. Limit processed foods
4. Eat plenty of fiber (#1 will accomplish that)
5. Get regular mild to moderat exercise-it improves immune function, lubricates joints and elevates mood. Ask your rheumy what would be good for you.
6. Do not take echinacea or goldenseal. They also stimulate immune system.
7. Some lupus patients find wheat gluten to be inflammatory, but many of us have no problem with it.
8. If you can’t pronounce the ingredients, don’t put it in your mouth.
9. Fish oil is anti-inflammatory. You can eat cold water fish like salmon to get that. A small amount of nuts is good, too.
10. Make sure you get plenty of calcium. Our meds make us prone to osteoporosis. Exercise helps with that, too.