Lupus and gut microbiota: what is the link?

Understanding lupus 

What is lupus? 

Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus, is a chronic disease in which the immune system attacks the body's tissues and organs. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart and even the nervous system.

The symptoms and causes of lupus 

The symptoms of lupus are varied and include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes and sometimes fever. The causes of this condition vary: genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance and environmental factors can contribute to its onset. Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms and has a significant impact on patients' daily lives.

Lupus: a complex autoimmune disease 

As any other autoimmune disease, lupus makes the body attack itself, causing chronic inflammation and various complications. This complexity makes medical monitoring essential and scientific research is crucial in order to better understand the disease.

Gut microbiota: what role does it play? 

What is gut microbiota? 

The gut microbiota is a collection of billions of microorganisms present in our intestines. It plays a fundamental role in digestion, the production of certain vitamins and, above all, in the proper functioning of the immune system.

Gut microbiota and the immune system 

A well-balanced microbiota helps regulate immune responses and prevent excessive inflammation. It also helps protect against certain infections and autoimmune diseases.

Dysbiosis: when your gut microbiota is altered 

When this balance is disrupted, the condition is referred to as intestinal dysbiosis. Dysbiosis can result from an unbalanced diet, prolonged antibiotic treatment, or chronic stress. It is associated with increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases, digestive disorders, and chronic inflammation.

Gut microbiota and lupus: how are they connected? 

Latest scientific findings 

In recent years, scientists have been interested in the role of gut microbiota in lupus. Several studies show that people with lupus often have an imbalance in their microbiota, called dysbiosis. Certain beneficial bacteria are less present, while others, potentially pro-inflammatory, are more numerous.

A recent study of 2,025 people compared the microbiota of lupus patients with that of healthy individuals. It revealed lower bacterial diversity, with an increase in bacteria of the genus Escherichia and a decrease in beneficial bacteria such as Ruminococcus. These alterations appear to be linked to greater inflammation and more severe symptoms.

Further research suggests that this imbalance could influence the immune system, for example by stimulating certain immune cells involved in lupus mechanisms.

Animal tests have shown that restoring the balance of the microbiota, through diet or certain probiotics, could limit certain manifestations of the disease, such as kidney problems. Although promising, these results remain exploratory in humans and require further study.

How can gut microbiota influence lupus 

The dysbiosis observed in patients may contribute to excessive activation of the immune system and persistent inflammation, which promotes the worsening of symptoms. By disrupting the balance between beneficial bacteria and pro-inflammatory bacteria, the microbiota could therefore play a key role in the progression of lupus.

Dysbiosis and worsening of symptoms 

This alteration in the microbiota can exacerbate certain symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain and chronic inflammation. An unbalanced microbiota directly impacts patients' quality of life and could be one of the factors explaining the variability of symptoms between individuals.

Taking care of your gut microbiota when you have lupus 

Food and lupus: what should you eat? 

For patients with lupus, certain eating habits can help maintain a healthy gut microbiota. Regular consumption of fibre, vegetables, fruit and fermented products supports the balance of the microbiota and limits inflammation. Diets tailored to individual needs can also help reduce certain symptoms.

Prebiotics and probiotics: their role and health benefits 

Prebiotics, found in certain vegetables and whole grains, feed beneficial bacteria. Probiotics directly supply microorganisms that are beneficial to the gut and can strengthen the balance of microbiota in patients with lupus.

Other ways to improve your gut health

Stress management, good-quality sleep, and regular exercise also contribute to gut health. These habits can have an indirect impact on lupus by limiting inflammation and supporting the immune system.

In a nutshell:

• Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's tissues and organs, causing fatigue, joint pain and inflammation.
  
• The gut microbiota plays a key role in digestion and the immune system regulation.
  
• Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the microbiota, is common in lupus patients and may contribute to inflammation and exacerbate the symptoms.
  
• Studies show reduced bacterial diversity in lupus patients, with a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in pro-inflammatory bacteria.
  
• Maintaining a balanced microbiota can be achieved through a diet rich in fibre, fruit, vegetables and fermented products, as well as through the consumption of appropriate prebiotics and probiotics.
  
• Sleep, stress management and regular physical activity also contribute to gut health and can help limit the inflammation associated with lupus.

Was this article helpful?

Cliquez sur J’aime ou partagez votre ressenti et vos interrogations avec la communauté en commentaire ci-dessous !

Prenez soin de vous !