Lupus
Lupus (lupus erythematosus)
is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the
body’s
connective tissue. Lupus is marked by skin rashes,
joint pain and swelling, and inflammation of the
kidneys and other body organs.
Treatment
While there is no cure for lupus, current treatment
options aim to prevent and treat flare-ups. These
treatments include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs), anti-malarials, corticosteroids,
immunosuppressive agents, and disease-modifying
anti-rheumatic drugs. Unfortunately, these medications
are expensive and can cause serious side effects,
leading a growing number of patients to try alternative
treatment options.
According to the National Institute of Health,
alternative approaches have included:
- Special diets
- Nutritional
supplements
- Fish oils
- Ointments and creams
- Chiropractic treatment
- Homeopathy
*Remember: those considering complementary or
alternative therapies should always consult their
doctor to discuss the treatment options that are
right for them.
Promising Results
in Clinical Trials
Several small double blind, placebo-controlled
studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids have
a therapeutic effect for those suffering from
systemic lupus. In one study, 83% of patients
taking omega-3s reported an improvement in their
symptoms, compared to 24% taking placebo. In
another study, supplementation with omega-3 fish
oil also reported a significant reduction in
symptoms.
How It Works
Lupus is characterized by an overabundance of pro-inflammatory
agents that come from omega-6 fatty acids. While
omega-3s perform anti-inflammatory activities in
the body, omega-6s, on the other hand, provoke
inflammation. Researchers believe that supplementing
diet with omega-3s could help reduce the symptoms
of lupus.
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