Lupus and hydration

Living with lupus, an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and tissue damage, presents unique challenges that extend beyond managing symptoms and flare-ups. Hydration plays a crucial role in supporting overall health and mitigating the impact of lupus on the body. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of hydration for individuals with lupus, look at the possible consequences of dehydration, and offer practical tips for maintaining optimal fluid balance.

Hydration is essential for everyone, but it holds particular significance for individuals with lupus due to the disease’s impact on various bodily systems. Adequate hydration supports immune function, aids in detoxification, promotes tissue repair, and helps regulate body temperature—all of which are vital considerations for managing lupus symptoms and maintaining overall well-being.

Dehydration can exacerbate the symptoms of lupus and contribute to flare-ups, increasing the risk of complications and impacting quality of life. Common consequences of dehydration in individuals with lupus may include:

• Increased Inflammation: Dehydration can trigger systemic inflammation, exacerbating joint pain, fatigue, and other lupus symptoms.
• Impaired Kidney Function: Lupus nephritis, a common complication of lupus, can compromise kidney function and increase the risk of dehydration-related complications such as electrolyte imbalances and kidney stones.
• Worsened Fatigue and Cognitive Function: Dehydration can exacerbate fatigue and cognitive dysfunction, common symptoms of lupus, further impacting daily functioning and quality of life.
• Greater Susceptibility to Infections: Dehydration weakens the immune system, making individuals with lupus more susceptible to infections and illness.

How to Properly Hydrate

Maintaining optimal hydration with lupus involves adopting healthy habits and strategies to ensure adequate fluid intake. Here are some tips for staying hydrated:

• Drink Plenty of Water: The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is: About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men. About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women. Always talk with your doctor to make a personalized water goal that is best for you! 
• Monitor Urine Color: Pay attention to the color of your urine—pale straw or light yellow indicates adequate hydration, while dark urine may signal dehydration.
• Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day: Sip water consistently throughout the day rather than waiting until you’re thirsty. Carry a reusable water bottle with you as a reminder to drink regularly.
• Incorporate Hydrating Foods: Consume hydrating foods such as fruits, vegetables, soups, and herbal teas, which contribute to overall fluid intake and provide essential nutrients.
• Be Mindful of Medications: Some medications used to manage lupus symptoms, such as diuretics and corticosteroids, can increase the risk of dehydration. Be mindful of these effects and adjust your fluid intake accordingly.

Another hydration factor is the type of water you are drinking. I only drink spring water because the minerals have not been stripped during the purification process. I used to only drink purified water but I constantly felt dehydrated and could never keep on top of my hydration. Now if I drink purified water I get terrible dehydration headaches. Turns out I just needed the minerals that are naturally occurring in water. If you choose to drink distilled or purified water make sure you’re getting your electrolytes in from either food or a hydration drink. 

1. Spring Water: Derived from natural springs, spring water is rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, imparting a refreshing taste and potential health benefits. Its mineral content can contribute to hydration and electrolyte balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural hydration.

2. Distilled Water: Distilled water undergoes a purification process that removes impurities and minerals, resulting in a neutral taste and high purity. While it lacks minerals, distilled water is free from contaminants and suitable for hydration purposes.

3. Purified Water: Purified water, often obtained through processes such as reverse osmosis or filtration, undergoes rigorous purification to remove contaminants and impurities. It may lack minerals but provides clean, safe hydration.

Hydration is a building block of health and well-being, particularly for individuals living with lupus. By prioritizing regular fluid intake, monitoring hydration status, and adopting healthy hydration habits, individuals with lupus can support their bodies’ natural healing processes, mitigate symptoms, and enhance overall quality of life. Remember, hydration is not just a necessity—it’s a powerful tool for managing lupus and thriving in the face of adversity. Make sure to check out our other lupus-related posts that will be linked below!

Lupus related posts:

• “Lupus flare-ups 101”
• “Lupus diet and nutrition”
• “Natural remedies for Lupus fatigue”
• “Smoothie for Lupus”
• “Lupus and teeth health”