Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues. The condition causes damage to organs in chronic cases, and patients may need organ replacement. Women between the ages of 15 and 45 are more likely to develop the condition, but some lifestyle tips are beneficial for managing lupus and alleviating the symptoms. This condition can be effectively managed by managing the food consumed and keeping stress levels under control.

This article lists out some lifestyle tips for lupus that can be followed by patients to help manage the illness:

1. Avoid sunburns
Lupus patients should avoid being out in the sun for a longer period as it increases the rashes or their severity and can trigger the condition on other parts of the skin as well. If stepping out in the sun is inevitable, patients should cover their full body and use sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or more. It is important to not avoid wearing sunglasses as well, and patients can rely on supplements instead of the sun for their vitamin D requirements.

2. Rest and digest
Lupus can cause fatigue and exhaustion, and patients need to get enough sleep and rest to manage the condition effectively and prevent it from taking a toll on their overall health. Making healthy lifestyle choices is one of the most effective lifestyle tips for lupus management as it changes the quality of life substantially.

3. Avoid smoking
Smoking can trigger lupus or aggravate the existing symptoms, and intoxication is very harmful to people suffering from lupus. The blood gets thinner and lupus enters the bloodstream, encouraging the autoimmune disease to kill the internal organs.

4. Eat right
Following a balanced diet with vegetables, protein, fats, whole grains, lean meat or lean protein, and healthy fats is essential for managing lupus. Unhealthy or saturated fats should not be consumed by lupus patients to avoid further complications. Additionally, high blood cholesterol levels are an easy way for lupus to worsen as it leads to high amounts of fat in the bloodstream. Instead, patients can switch to a low-fat diet or consult a nutritionist to formulate a diet plan to manage the condition.

5. Active mind and body
It is important to reduce stress and keep the mind and body active. Core strengthening exercises instead of energy-boosting ones can help strengthen the bones and muscles and keep the mind and body in active mode. Walking and swimming are great ways to ensure regular exercise without exerting the body too much. Along with exercise, it is necessary to eat well and make time to relax. Stress triggers lupus, so managing stress levels is an important lifestyle tip for lupus patients. Meditation, planting trees or gardening, sewing, drawing or reading, picking up a hobby or old passion are great ways to cope with stress.