The use of specific vitamins as natural lupus treatments is a complex topic. Low levels of certain vitamins, such as vitamin D, have been partner with lupus. But the link between other vitamins and lupus remains unclear.

In general, research of 2018 suggests that vitamins A, E, C, B, and D have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate immune responses in lupus.

However, the amount of vitamin you take is important. THE American Lupus Foundation recommends avoiding excess vitamins E and A due to unwanted side effects.

Experts recommend eating a balanced diet to avoid vitamin overdose and ensure beneficial levels of these essential compounds without the risk of complications.

A doctor can monitor your vitamin levels through regular blood tests. If certain values ​​are low on your results despite a balanced diet, a doctor may prescribe supplements.

NAC supplementation can increase cysteine ​​levels. NAC also has antioxidant properties and helps combat the effects of oxidative stress, such as chronic inflammation.

In a In a 2023 double-blind randomized clinical trial, researchers found that NAC supplementation 1,800 milligrams (mg) per day can effectively reduce LED disease activity and symptoms.

Turmeric is a spice used in cooking and in some forms of traditional medicine. The active ingredient curcumin gives turmeric its beneficial properties as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant supplement.

Research on the use of turmeric in lupus is limited. According to a systematic review 2023it is a promising supplement as a complementary therapy for lupus. But more research is needed to determine a recommended dose.

Your body has a natural network of cannabinoids called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate pain, modify stress responses, and manage inflammation and immune function.

Emerging research suggests that ECS dysfunction may exist in lupus, and the use of cannabinoid products may help some people manage symptoms of pain and inflammation. Further research is needed before this is considered a recommended practice.

To date, there is no standardized lupus diet, but paying attention to what you eat and drink is still important in managing lupus.

Your diet ensures that you get the vitamins, minerals and nutrients you need daily. Your diet also supports your other treatments by reducing inflammation and stress related to inadequate nutrition.

In a systematic review 2020Researchers found that a diet balanced in calories and protein, but rich in fiber, polyunsaturated fats (like omega-3), and micronutrients, could help modify the immune and inflammatory processes in SLE.

Mind-body interventions are therapeutic techniques that aim to balance your mental and physical well-being. Examples include:

Mind-body interventions aim to heal, reduce stress and promote relaxation. When combined with conventional therapies, they can relieve lupus symptoms by reducing external factors (like stress) that worsen inflammation in the body.

A little 2021 Randomized Controlled Trial found that mindfulness-based stress reduction helped improve quality of life and reduce psychological distress and pain perception in participants living with SLE.

Natural treatments aren’t right for everyone, and lupus affects everyone differently. It may be helpful to think about the following questions to determine if a treatment is right for you:

• Why do I want to add a natural treatment to my treatment plan?
• What is the evidence supporting this treatment?
• What specific symptoms can this treatment help with? Does this meet my needs?
• What are the possible risks?
• How long will it take to see improvements?
• Could this treatment negatively affect my other medications or therapies?
• Does my doctor support this decision?
• How will I track my progress and safe use?
• Is this treatment sustainable in the long term?
• Is this treatment affordable?

Even natural treatments for lupus can cause side effects. They may not be suitable for everyone. It is therefore important to consider individual factors such as age, general health, underlying health conditions and personal preferences.

Before starting any natural therapy, consider discussing the decision with a doctor first. They can guide you through all the necessary tests you will need to ensure the safety of natural treatments.

Natural treatment options for lupus include increasing the amount of vitamins you consume, such as vitamin D, and adding more turmeric to your diet.

Lupus is a chronic disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissue. Conventional management involves medications and lifestyle modifications. But natural treatments can support the current therapeutic plan.

Before starting any vitamins, supplements, or new routines, consider discussing their safety and potential side effects with a doctor. Not all natural lupus treatments are suitable for everyone or should be added without prior screenings and testing.