
Thank you Dr. Thomas! I look forward to your articles.
Wondering if you will write one about Car-T therapy. It seems pretty exciting.
Thanks
Sea moss was never on my radar until the past couple of years (2022-2023). I (Donald Thomas, MD) have had several patients now ask me about sea moss as a lupus prebiotic. They asked me if it truly helps and if it is safe. This short blog post answers those questions using the best medical evidence.
Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, affects millions of people worldwide. Individuals living with lupus often seek natural remedies and supplements to complement their treatment plan and manage their symptoms effectively. One such natural option that has gained attention is sea moss, a type of algae known for its potential prebiotic properties. In this article, we will delve into the topic of sea moss as a lupus prebiotic, exploring its potential benefits and considerations for individuals with lupus.
Lupus is a complex condition that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs in the body. This immune system dysregulation can lead to inflammation and various symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that may be beneficial for gut health. They are marketed as “supporting” the immune system, improving digestion, and promoting overall well-being. The gut is the largest immune system organ of the body, and the organisms in our gut (the gut microbiome) interact with the immune system. Studies show that an abnormal gut microbiome is associated with worse lupus disease activity and flares.
We do not recommend that lupus patients take over-the-counter probiotic supplement capsules, tablets, or liquids containing gut bacteria. While many probiotic bacteria in these supplements contain beneficial bacteria, some contain strains that are associated with worse lupus disease activity. Much more research is needed. In the meantime, stick to healthy foods rich in probiotic microbes.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are ingestible substances that feed beneficial bacteria, as are found in probiotic foods. Do not forget to include prebiotic food (like resistant starches) in a probiotic-rich diet. Sea moss has been promoted as a prebiotic. Read about prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods in our anti-inflammatory diet post.
Scientifically known as Chondrus crispus, sea moss represents a type of red algae that grows along the Atlantic coastlines. The above image is an example of Irish sea moss. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is revered for its potential health benefits. While there is no research on sea moss and lupus (as of 2023), its prebiotic nature and nutrient-rich profile make it an intriguing option for individuals who are interested in increasing prebiotics and probiotics in their diet. Possible sea moss benefits include:
While sea moss shows promise as a lupus prebiotic, it’s essential to approach its usage with caution and consider the following factors:
If you decide to try sea moss as a lupus prebiotic, it is essential to do so safely. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Sea moss, with its potential prebiotic properties, has garnered attention as a natural supplement for individuals with lupus. While no research specifically explores sea moss (Chondrus crispus) and lupus, its nutrient-rich composition and potential anti-inflammatory properties make it an intriguing option. However, it is essential to approach sea moss usage with caution, seeking professional guidance and monitoring your individual response. Incorporating sea moss safely, alongside a balanced diet and comprehensive lupus treatment plan, may offer potential benefits for managing symptoms and supporting overall health.
Remember, every individual’s experience with lupus is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. Consult with healthcare professionals and listen to your body’s feedback when incorporating sea moss or any other natural remedies into your lupus management strategy. By taking a holistic approach and making informed choices, you can strive towards improved well-being and a better quality of life with lupus.
Thank you Dr. Thomas! I look forward to your articles.
Wondering if you will write one about Car-T therapy. It seems pretty exciting.
Thanks
How do I find a dietician who knows anything about sea moss? This is fascinating to me, because I continually suffer from gut problems. I eat a bland mediterranean-type diet. What I’ve learned is that registered dietitians in my city (which is in the top 10 in the U.S). limit their clients to those with diabetes, heart problems, or cancer. Do you have a suggestion for “seeking professional guidance and monitoring your individual response.” As with everything in the medical world these days, there are too many sick people and not enough trained clinicians. My current specialists say it’s best to avoid prebiotics an probiotics–just eat the right food (which obviously hasn’t solved my intestinal problems). I’ve reviewed websites for dietitians and haven’t found anyone (a few say they have specialties for Chron’s or IBS, neither of which I have been diagnosed with).
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