Can diet impact the incidence and progression of lupus? According to the Lupus Foundation of America, approximately 1.5 million Americans and at least 5 million individuals worldwide live with lupus, which includes systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), cutaneous lupus, drug-induced lupus, and neonatal lupus. The disease primarily affects women of childbearing age, specifically those aged between 15 and 44 years, but can impact men, children, and teenagers alike. 1
While there is speculation that familial, hormonal, and environmental factors may impact lupus incidence and progression, 2 researchers have recently begun investigating the link between disease exacerbation and the consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs).
One of the most profound changes in the American diet in recent decades has been the replacement of unprocessed and minimally processed foods with UPFs, which largely lack nutritional benefit and are filled with preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and artificial colors. These foods are not genetically modified, but formulated using mostly low-cost, industrial means that utilize serial processing. Ultraprocessed foods are characterized by high energy density and contain unhealthy fats, refined starches, added sugars, and excessive salt, while being deficient in protein, dietary fiber, and essential micronutrients. Examples include sweetened drinks, ice cream, packaged biscuits, and ready-to-eat meals, which have been associated with negative health outcomes. 3
High consumption of UPFs has been associated with obesity and chronic diseases, 3 including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes , cancer, inflammatory bowel disease , and even depression. The consumption of UPFs and their rising dietary intake are suspected to be related to disease pathogenesis via several biological mechanisms, including the stimulation of systemic inflammation that is central to the development of lupus.
Research has shown that specific gut bacteria are involved in modulating immune responses, and an imbalance can contribute to the autoimmunity characteristics of lupus. By promoting inflammation through these pathways, the consumption of UPFs can worsen symptoms and increase disease activity among individuals with lupus, underscoring the importance of dietary choices in managing the condition. Investigating the Connection Between SLE and UPFs
Based on a study by Rossato et al, patients with a higher cumulative daily intake of UPFs […]
Exploring the Harmful Link Between Ultraprocessed Foods and Lupus
