Before we address “can lupus cause weight gain,” let’s understand what lupus is.
Lupus is an autoimmune condition, meaning your immune system, which is supposed to protect you from infections, mistakenly attacks your body’s own tissues. Lupus can affect many parts of the body, including:
- Skin
- Joints (such as knees, fingers, elbows)
- Kidneys
- Heart and lungs
- Brain
- Blood
Common symptoms include weakness, fatigue, and pain. Some people experience flare-ups, where the symptoms worsen temporarily, while others may have milder, chronic symptoms.
Can Lupus Cause Weight Gain?
Yes — lupus can cause weight gain in several ways. Let’s explore the reasons behind this:
1. Lupus Slows You Down
When your joints hurt or your body feels weak, it’s difficult to stay active. You may reduce the amount of physical activity you do, like walking or exercising. Over time, this decrease in movement can lead to weight gain.
2. Medicines Can Cause Weight Gain
Certain medications used to treat lupus, particularly steroids like prednisone, can lead to weight gain. While these medications are effective in reducing inflammation and controlling symptoms, they can also:
- Increase hunger
- Cause the body to retain more water
- Alter how fat is stored in the body
So, lupus itself may not directly cause weight gain, but the medications used to manage lupus can play a significant role in weight changes.
3. Lupus Can Affect Hormones
Lupus can sometimes disrupt the balance of hormones in your body. Even if your diet remains the same, hormone imbalances may cause weight gain or make it more difficult to lose weight.
Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Lupus
While traditional treatments for lupus, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, are crucial for managing the condition, many people with lupus also turn to complementary and alternative therapies to help manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Here are some promising and widely-used options:
1. Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Food is a powerful tool in managing lupus symptoms, as inflammation is a key driver of many of its effects.
Recommended foods:
- Leafy greens, berries, and cruciferous vegetables
- Wild-caught fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Whole grains (gluten-free if sensitive)
- Anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger
To avoid:
- Processed foods
- Refined sugars
- Saturated fats
- Nightshades (for those sensitive to them)
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, are known to help reduce inflammation. They may also improve symptoms like joint pain and stiffness in lupus patients. Speak to your healthcare provider about the possibility of supplementing with a high-quality fish oil.
3. Vitamin D
Many individuals with lupus are deficient in vitamin D, especially if they avoid sun exposure. Vitamin D is crucial for immune regulation and bone health, so supplementation may be beneficial. Always discuss supplementation with your healthcare provider.
4. Acupuncture
Acupuncture may be helpful in alleviating symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, and headaches. By stimulating specific points in the body, acupuncture promotes energy flow and may help reduce inflammation.
5. Mind-Body Therapies
Managing stress is crucial in lupus, as stress can trigger flares and worsen symptoms. Effective mind-body therapies include:
- Meditation and mindfulness
- Yoga and Tai Chi (low-impact for joint support)
- Guided imagery or progressive muscle relaxation
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to manage chronic illness
6. Herbal and Natural Remedies
Certain herbs possess anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Some commonly used herbs include:
- Turmeric (curcumin)
- Boswellia
- Green tea extract
However, many herbs can interact with lupus medications or cause flare-ups. Always consult a qualified integrative physician before starting herbal supplements.
7. Probiotics and Gut Health
There’s growing evidence that gut health plays a role in immune regulation. Supporting your gut with:
- Probiotics (via fermented foods or supplements)
- Prebiotic foods (such as asparagus, garlic, and onions)
- L-glutamine and zinc (to support gut lining)
…may help reduce systemic inflammation and support overall health.
8. Massage Therapy
Massage can help relieve muscle pain, improve circulation, and decrease stress. Gentle, lymphatic, or Swedish massage is usually the best option for lupus patients, as it promotes relaxation without overexerting the body.
9. Low-Impact Exercise
Staying active can help maintain flexibility, reduce fatigue, and prevent muscle loss. Recommended activities include:
- Walking
- Swimming or aqua therapy
- Gentle stretching
Low-impact exercise can provide significant benefits without overexerting the joints.
Is It Normal to Gain Weight With Lupus?
Many people with lupus ask, “Can lupus cause weight gain, or is something else going on?”
Gaining some weight is common among individuals with lupus, but it’s important to make sure the weight gain isn’t due to another underlying issue. Here’s a breakdown of potential reasons and how you can manage weight changes related to lupus.
Can Lupus Cause Weight Gain?
Yes, lupus can cause weight gain, but it’s important to know that it can happen in different ways. Here’s how:
1. Swelling (Water Retention)
Lupus can cause fluid retention in the body, which might make you feel like you’ve gained weight, even though it’s primarily water weight.
2. Kidney Issues (Lupus Nephritis)
Some individuals with lupus develop lupus nephritis, a condition that affects the kidneys and can lead to fluid buildup, causing weight gain.
3. Thyroid Problems
The thyroid helps control your metabolism and weight. Lupus can affect thyroid function, and hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) can contribute to weight gain.
If you notice unexplained weight gain, consult your healthcare provider. They can run tests to help identify the root cause and ensure that lupus isn’t the only factor at play.
Can Lupus Cause Sudden Weight Gain?
Yes, sudden weight gain can occur with lupus, particularly when:
- Steroids (like prednisone) are introduced to manage symptoms
- Your body retains excess water
- Your kidneys aren’t functioning well
Sudden weight gain can indicate more serious health concerns, such as organ problems or fluid accumulation, and should always be discussed with your healthcare provider.
How Can You Manage Weight with Lupus?
Even though lupus can cause weight gain, there are many ways you can manage your weight and improve your overall health:
1. Eat Healthy Foods
A well-balanced diet can help manage weight gain and improve overall health. Try to eat:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins (like chicken or beans)
- Foods low in salt and sugar
It’s important to avoid too many processed snacks or sugary drinks, as these can contribute to weight gain.
2. Stay Active — Even a Little
Exercise can be challenging for some people with lupus, but gentle movement can be very beneficial. Consider:
- Walking
- Stretching
- Yoga
Consult your healthcare provider about what exercises are safe and appropriate for your condition.
3. Get Enough Sleep and Rest
Sleep is essential for overall health and helps regulate weight. Try to:
- Get 7–9 hours of sleep every night
- Go to bed at the same time each night
Lack of sleep can interfere with weight management and lead to weight gain.
4. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider
If you notice weight changes, whether from gain or loss, speak to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if the changes are related to medication, symptoms, or other factors and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
What If You’re Losing Weight Instead?
While many people with lupus are concerned about weight gain, others might experience the opposite problem — unexplained weight loss.
Weight loss can occur for several reasons, including:
- Lupus affecting the stomach or bowels
- Feeling too sick to eat
- Certain medications causing loss of appetite
If you experience unintended weight loss, it’s equally important to consult your healthcare provider to ensure there are no other underlying issues.
Can Lupus Cause Belly Fat?
Yes, it’s common for individuals with lupus to notice increased belly fat, particularly when:
- Steroid use
- Stress
- Less physical activity
- Hormonal changes
This can be frustrating, but it’s important to note that this is a normal response for many people with lupus. Your healthcare provider can help you develop a plan to manage belly fat and improve your overall health safely.
Is It Just Lupus, or Something Else?
Sometimes, weight gain may be mistakenly attributed solely to lupus, but there could be other contributing factors. Some possible conditions include:
- Thyroid disease
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Depression or stress
- Eating habits
Rather than guessing, it’s crucial to get a checkup to pinpoint the exact cause of the weight changes.
Conclusion: You Can Live Fully with Lupus
Lupus may bring challenges, but it doesn’t have to define your life.
By focusing on natural, healing habits, you can reduce symptoms, boost your energy, and feel more in control of your health.
You don’t have to do it alone.
At Kairos Health and Wellness, Lola, a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in functional medicine, is ready to help you.
She listens deeply, looks beyond just symptoms, and builds a personalized, natural plan to support you on your healing journey.
Ready to feel stronger, clearer, and healthier with Lupus?Book your consultation with Lola today and take your first step toward natural healing!
