Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a disease of the connective tissue, which is related to the rheumatic diseases like arthritis. The disease is characterized by inflammation of the connective tissue all over the body. SLE is believed to be caused by an autoimmune disorder where the body makes antibodies and attacks itself. It can effect joints, skin, blood vessels, heart, kidneys, spleen, muscles, etc. It primarily occurs in young women before the age of 30 and women rarely experience it once they’ve reached menopause (estrogen link?). Its’ symptomatology is diverse and effects each patient differently. Some patients may have very mild symptoms, while it may be life threatening to others. This disease also has exacerbation periods and times of remission. To diagnose SLE, the physician looks for anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) and anti-DNA antibodies in the blood. It is not infectious or contagious, and its cause is unknown. Dr. Metcalfe encourages all patients to begin treatment as early as possible for the best prognosis.

Fever.
Fatigue.
Arthritic pains in the joints.
Butterfly shaped rash over the nose and cheeks.
Recurrent pleurisy.
Lymphadenopathy.
Proteinuria.
Headaches.
Psychoses.

Lifestyle Changes:

Exercise 1 hour a day, everyday, including 20-40 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise and weight training.
No smoking.
No alcohol.
Decrease stress.
Decrease exposure to sunlight.
Epsom salt baths or hot mineral springs as frequently as possible.
Maintain a positive and strong attitude.

Dietary Changes:

Eat a diet rich in soy foods and soy protein.
Drink 10 glasses of filtered water daily.
No caffeine.
Avoid red meat. Eat only free range or organic meats.
3 servings of fish weekly.
Increase consumption of raw or dry roasted seeds and nuts.
Eat organic dairy products including eggs.
5 servings of fruit and vegetables daily.
Use only olive or canola oil.
Increase green and black tea to 2 cups a day. The flavenoids in the tea are protective to your tissues.

SLE Management Protocol:

Dr. Metcalfe recommends having blood work done every 3-6 months to monitor her patients.
Similase: 5 capsules three times a day away from food.
Lipotropic Complex: 3 capsules every morning with breakfast.
Chlorotene: 3 capsules twice daily with food.
Ipriflavone Osteo Formula: 3 capsules with each meal.