Systemic lupus erythematosus (also known as “systemic lupus erythematosus” or “systemic lupus”) is a chronic autoimmune disease which affects approximately 41 in 100,000 French people – and especially women (who represent 90% of patients) from 30-40 years old.
The disease is characterized by the apparitithere are red “patches” on the face that form like a mask (or butterfly wings): these lesions are aggravated or triggered by exposure to the sun. Patients who suffer from Systemic lupus erythematosus can also present damage to the mucous membranes (mouth ulcers, etc.) and / or the scalp (alopecia): in 80% of cases, there is also joint damage (pain in the fingers, wrists, ankles. .. especially at night).
Good news for the 20,000 to 30,000 French people who suffer from lupus: according to a recent study from the University of Michigan (in the United States), regular consumption of ginger could help reduce the symptoms of this autoimmune disease.
Fresh, unprocessed ginger for lupus
To reach this conclusion, the American researchers worked on a group of mice suffering from lupus. Some of these mice also had antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (or Hughes syndrome), an autoimmune condition often associated with lupus which is the formation of clots in the blood vessels.
Scientists (who have published their work in the specialized journal JCI Insight) found that 6-gingerol, a molecule found naturally in ginger, reduced inflammation, the immune mechanism that causes lupus and Hugues syndrome. More precisely: 6-gingerol reduced the activation of neutrophils, these white blood cells which participate in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Researchers therefore recommend ginger-based dietary supplements for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and / or antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. On a daily basis, they advise consuming more ginger – if possible fresh and unprocessed.
Read also :
- Lupus: a diet high in fiber could be beneficial
- Smoking increases the risk of lupus in women
- Physical activity for lupus
