In My Pantry: 10 Foods to Fight Autoimmune Flares

In May 2014, I suffered a major lupus flare. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that comes about when the immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks its own tissues in multiple body systems. My symptoms included extreme fatigue, fever, inflammation and extensive swelling. I knew I didn’t want to be on multiple medications, so I decided to research ways in which food could help my body heal itself. I started by looking into what foods and diet changes could possibly aggravate my symptoms, and subsequently eliminated these items from my diet. Now, six months later, I’m completely off medications thanks to some successful diet modifications!

On my path to healing, I found that eliminating meat and dairy products reduced my joint stiffness. Eating more raw foods increased my energy, while eliminating sugar and processed foods eliminated my migraines.

These 10 foods make me feel great by providing me with the energy boost I need to keep fatigue at bay. They also assist in reducing inflammation throughout my body, thereby working to prevent joint pain and discomfort. I feel lucky that I have the opportunity to eat what I love– and, in exchange, my body loves what I eat! The foods I regularly stock in my kitchen not only have a long list of health benefits, but they are also versatile and enjoyable to eat as part of my everyday diet! On any given day, you’ll find these 10 items in my pantry:

10 Foods To Stock Up On for Fighting Lupus and Associated Autoimmune Flare-Ups

– Sweet potato: These orange veggies are loading with fiber and beta-carotene (aka, vitamin a).

• Mung Bean and Sweet Potato Stew 

• Easy 4-Ingredient Sweet Potato Pudding 

– Kale: Special compounds called flavanoids are abundant in kale– and they help fight inflammation!

• Green Dream Wakeup Juice 
• Kale Chips

– Quinoa: This grain is naturally gluten-free, high in iron, a variety of B-vitamins, and is one of few plant foods considered a complete protein source.

• Black Quinoa Salad 

• Kale, White Bean and Avocado Quinoa Salad 

– Nuts: Packed with heart-healthy fats, protein, fiber and a plethora of vitamins and minerals, nuts pack a nutritional punch.

• Farro with Pomegranate and Walnuts 

• Naturally Sweetened Cashew Coconut Honey Cookies 

– Seeds: Technically plant embryos, seeds pack vitamins, minerals, essential fats, and protein into a very small package.

• Chia Seed Yogurt Custard

• Detox Cauliflower Rice with Turmeric Toasted Seeds

– Dates: This fruit is a great sugar alternative and can its high fiber content can help alleviate constipation, diarrhea and intestinal disorders.

• Healthy DIY “Twix” Bars 

• Easy Banana Date Bliss Balls

– Berries: This colorful fruit variety contains a substantial amount of powerful antioxidants, which help detoxify the body.

• Very Berry Flaxseed Popsicles 
• Fig and Blackberry Salad with Candied Walnuts

– Bananas : This starchy fruit is loaded with potassium, vitamin C and dietary fiber.

• Banana Spinach Green Smoothie 

• Grain-Free Banana Pancakes 

– Oats: Rolled oats contribute substantially to one’s daily need of iron and fiber.

• No Bake 4-Ingredient Granola Bars
• Carrot Cake Oats 

– Beans: Phytochemicals found in beans appear to protect our cells from damage. Additionally, beans are full of fiber, which helps to regulate blood sugar and support gut health.

• Pumpkin Apple Black Bean Chili 

• Veggie Chickpeas Burger 

Note: PLEASE consult with  your doctor before making any changes to your diet or medications. The material on this site is provided for educational purposes only, and is not to be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.