Autoimmune Disorders

Daily Tip: Food as Medicine: Autoimmune Disorders

A healthy diet can help the body in its efforts to heal itself, and in
some cases, particular foods can lessen symptoms. To address problems
commonly associated with autoimmune disorders (such as rheumatoid arthritis
and lupus), try the following:
Decrease protein toward 10 percent of daily caloric intake. Replace animal
protein as much as possible with plant protein.

• Eliminate milk and milk products, substituting other calcium sources like

spinach and kale.

• Eat organically grown fruits and vegetables as much as possible.
• Eliminate polyunsaturated vegetable oils, margarine, vegetable shortening,

all partially hydrogenated oils, and all foods that might contain trans-
fatty acids (such as deep-fried foods). Use extra-virgin olive oil as your
main fat.

• Increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Eat ginger and turmeric regularly.