Association between Unsaturated Fatty Acid-Type Diet and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Systematic Review with...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology and Immunology
• Nutritional Science
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease with multifactorial etiology.
• Dietary factors, especially unsaturated fatty acids, show potential in modulating SLE due to anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the association between unsaturated fatty acid consumption and SLE risk, progression, and clinical manifestations.
• To provide evidence-based guidance for dietary management in SLE patients.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of medical databases up to January 2024.
• Inclusion of randomized controlled trials and case-control studies using the PICOS framework.
• Meta-analysis of SLE activity (SLEDAI, BILAG), inflammation biomarkers, and lipid profiles, with heterogeneity assessment (I² statistic).

Main Results:

• A diet rich in unsaturated fatty acids was significantly associated with reduced SLEDAI scores (SMD -0.36, p=0.007).
• Unsaturated fatty acid intake positively impacted HDL levels but showed no significant effect on IL-6 or other lipid components.
• Minimal heterogeneity (I² ≤ 15%) confirmed the stability and reliability of the findings.

Conclusions:

• Dietary unsaturated fatty acids may reduce SLE activity and positively influence HDL levels.
• Findings support incorporating unsaturated fatty acids into SLE dietary management.
• Further research is needed to refine recommendations and elucidate underlying mechanisms.