Can Vitamins Help With Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immunethe metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
system of the body produces antibodies which startMagnesium is essential for every major biological
attacking itself, producing inflammation of the skin, joints,process. It is necessary for 300+ enzymatic reactions
blood vessels and other areas. Some of the firstand is vital for calcium metabolism. Magnesium is not a
symptoms are similar to those common with arthritis,trace mineral, but a major entity in our bodies.
Lyme disease, and fibromyalgia such as swelling andCalcium performs numerous vital functions in the body.
pain of the joints, sometimes with a fever. Many casesIt combines with phosphorus to strengthen bones and
also have a characteristic rash that appears acrossis crucial for nerve conduction, muscle contraction and
the nose and cheeks, which consists of pinkish to redheartbeat. Calcium also helps prevent cramps brought
coloration of the skin and raised red bumps.on by exercise by avoiding lactic acid buildup.
The following vitamins and minerals have been shownIodine is crucial for the health of the thyroid gland and is
to be beneficial in the management of Lupus and itsessential for the production of two key hormones that
many symptoms.help regulate a host of body processes including
Vitamin A helps prevent eye disorders, skin disordersresting metabolic rate, heart rate, heat production and
like acne, cancer, colds, influenza and other infections. Itenergy levels.
enhances immunity and acts as an antioxidant. VitaminManganese is involved in protein, fat and energy
A is needed for skin and mucous membrane health,metabolism. Its primary function, though, is as an
bone and teeth formation, and protein utilization. It helpsantioxidant. Manganese is an essential part of
slow the aging process.biochemical reactions that affect bone, cartilage and
The B vitamins promote healthy nerves, skin, eyes, hair,brain function.
liver, gastrointestinal tract, and brain function. The BCopper is heavily involved in the production of
vitamins are also coenzymes involved in energyhemoglobin. It is also involved in the production of
production. B complex is important for elderly peoplecollagen, the protein responsible for the integrity of
and a deficiency can mimic Alzheimer's disease.bone, cartilage, skin and tendon, and elastin, a major
Vitamin C performs hundreds of functions in the body.component of large blood vessels.
It is crucial for the production of antibodies, strengthensSelenium is an essential trace mineral required by the
connective tissues, helps reduce the duration andbody in small quantities. It is also a potent antioxidant.
severity of a cold, assists with wound healing, andSelenium is necessary for proper calcium and vitamin
protects other vitamins from oxidation.C metabolism, helps convert blood sugar into energy,
Vitamin E, or tocopherol, is an anti-oxidant thatdecreases platelet aggregation and helps promote
prevents the fats and fat-soluble Vitamin A stored incardiovascular health.
the body from breaking down and combining withYou should work closely with your physician in the
other substances that may be harmful to the body. Itmanagement of Lupus, which includes discussing the
also protects red blood cells from rupturing.vitamins and minerals listed above before beginning to
Zinc is required for the production of both RNA andtake any of them. Some vitamins and minerals may
DNA, the basic building blocks of the body. It assistshave adverse reactions when taken in combination
the body in making the 200+ enzymes and is essentialwith certain over-the-counter and prescription
in the development and continuous normal functioningmedications.
of the central nervous system. Zinc also plays a role inCopyright 2006 PillFreeVitamins.