I wrote this in a blog as well, so I apologize for the double post to those who have already read this!
Shortly after I was diagnosed with Lupus, and after some discussion with a co-worker, I decided to go Gluten-Free. Not to say that it's been easy, but I've cut a good 90% of gluten out of my diet in hopes that it would make a positive impact on the way my joints feel. I do not have Celiac Disease, but I was in high hopes that leaving gluten out of my diet would reduce my inflammation. I was DESPERATE and willing to try anything to reduce the pain. Anyway, since then I have noticed quite a difference. I have days where my joints hurt worse than others, but I am no longer so stiff at the end of the day, that my husband has to pick me up in order for me to get around. I just wonder, has anyone else tried the same and if so, how has it worked for you?
I went gluten-free about six months ago, long before my diagnosis of SLE and nephritis. As you stated, it's not easy, but I have noticed most of the changes within my digestive tract which was always a bit wishy-washy because of the meds.
Although there are many good gluten-free alternatives I have noticed that many of then tend to be much higher in fat and calories, which for those of us on Prednisone and other meds that make us gain weight is kind of a bummer.
The biggest thing that I have discovered is that in an effort to go gluten-free I have begun eating more natural foods with less additives. As there is no known cause for lupus, it stands to reason that it could quite possibly be some unnatural additive to foods that can trigger a flair. I would love to share gluten-free recipes and tips with the group, if anyone else is up for it.
KIND snack bars are a favorite of mine. As well as a berrie oatmeal dessert that is YUMMY!
I picked up a book at Barnes & Noble on the discount rack $9.99...that was all about allergy free cooking. So you can actually look for allergies to nuts, eggs, wheat etc. I have found, however that if you use natural ingredients, you have a lot of options. Costco was recently handing out free cookbooks for the holidays and it too was catagorized by Gluten-free, wheat-free etc. This was one that was a favorite Scallop Salad - This is a meal salad SO GOOD!
Place Arugala on a plate
Dressing - 1cup Pomegranate juice, 1 cup White rice vinegar, 1 cup sugar...bring to boil and reduce by half
pan fry with salt and pepper approximately 6 scallops per person on lettuce
Peel clemantine or use canned mandarin oranges add to scallops and lettuce, add small amount of shaved Parmesan Cheese
Thank you, that sound delicious! I'll copy and paste that one. It's really difficult when you develop so many allergies. I always have to substitute alot! But it works out because the flavor is what's important.
I just went to the library today and grabbed a bunch of gluten free and vegan cook books.
Sorry i'm late posting after your blog but reagrding your discussion "Allergic" Ally is well into gluten free and the both of you will come into some issues regarding it.
I'm surprised that more members are not commenting on the gluten free diet for lupus. Doctors seem to be recommending it more and more these days. These links discuss connection and sometimes misdiagnosis of lupus with gluten intolerance.
You've got a good point because i'm sure i told Brittani more member's would comment on a main discussion as there is a few members who are gluten free, if not helping the lupus it's through either coeliac disease or IBS.