Scleroderma

Scleroderma is a disease that affects the connective tissue of internal organs (lungs, heart, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and esophagus, musculoskeletal system) and skin. At the same time the blood supply is disturbed, and in the tissues and organs thickening is observed.

Adherence to a proper, separate diet, maintaining a normal body weight and giving up bad habits are crucial in the treatment of scleroderma . Nutrient deficiencies during this period can provoke the development of various chronic diseases and exacerbate the condition.

Depending on the type of disease or its location, the doctor gives his recommendations regarding nutrition. We will introduce you to the general ones.

General recommendations

• In scleroderma it is useful to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, brown rice, seaweed (kelp), mushrooms (shiitake), as these products help strengthen the immune system and nervous system.
• It is mandatory to eat foods containing vitamin C - it is an antioxidant and helps the body fight molecules that damage tissues and cells, free radicals, as well as inflammation and infection. Rich in vitamins are: citrus fruits, melons, broccoli, strawberries, leafy vegetables, Brussels sprouts, blackcurrants, peppers, tomatoes, rose hips, apples, apricots, persimmons, peaches. Of course, all of them must be consumed raw or steamed, because in this way their useful properties are preserved.
• It is extremely important during this period to include products that are sources of beta-carotene and vitamin A. They are dietary, but maintain immunity and skin health. In addition, in scleroderma, the level of beta-carotene in the body decreases. Carrots, spinach, broccoli, pumpkin, tomatoes, plums, fish oil, peas, crow's feet, egg yolks and liver help to improve the condition.
• One of the powerful antioxidants is vitamin E. It prevents the risk of new inflammation and tissue damage, and its deficiency in the body leads to obesity. Sources of the vitamin are: vegetable oils, almonds, spinach, avocados, walnuts, hazelnuts , cashews, pasta, oatmeal, buckwheat, liver.
• It is useful to consume products high in cellulose, such as: bran, almonds, wheat, wholemeal bread, peanuts, raisins, lentils , fruit peels, leafy vegetables. Their main benefit for the body is that they regulate the work of the intestines.
• Doctors recommend eating foods rich in vitamin D, because together with vitamins A and C it protects the body from various infections. Vitamin D is found in fish and eggs.
• In the treatment of scleroderma, it is beneficial to take B vitamins, especially B1, B12 and B15. They improve the work of cells in the body and increase its resistance to infections, improve digestion, lower blood cholesterol, normalize metabolic processes and have a beneficial effect on tissue respiration, contribute to the purification of the body from toxins. Contained in some types of nuts (cedar nuts, walnuts, pistachios, almonds, cashews), buckwheat, oatmeal, lentils, millet, wheat, corn, liver, pork (preferably low-fat), beef, rabbit , fish and seafood, chicken eggs, cream, pumpkin seeds, wild rice, beans.
• It is important to drink at least 1.5 liters of fluid daily. These can be: mineral water, juices, yogurt, milk, compotes and green tea.

Harmful products in scleroderma

• In this disease you should not starve, because starvation can be a cause of stress and the patient's condition worsens.
• It is very important to limit the intake of fatty foods, it should be no more than 30% of total calories. Monounsaturated or low-fat fats should be preferred. These are: olive oil, peanut butter, avocado , olives, pecans, macadamia nuts.
• Avoid spicy and smoked foods, because they stimulate the appetite, and overeating is a path to obesity.
• Alcohol and smoking worsen the condition of the patient and have an adverse effect on the body.
• In focal scleroderma, it is best to refrain from consuming dairy products and wheat, as allergic reactions are possible, but these are already individual recommendations.