Steroid-induced diabetes: Diabetes is a condition in which your body does not produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose (sugar) level. Long-term use of corticosteroids may cause diabetes, which must be treated in the same way as it is for other people with diabetes.

After a thorough physical and dietary exam, your doctor will probably place you on a special diet. You should consult with a registered dietitian who can help you understand the various aspects of the diet, and learn to plan your meals more easily. You may also have to take a drug to help keep your glucose levels within normal limits. For some people, a pill may be prescribed; for others, insulin given by injection may be necessary.

If you are diagnosed with steroid-induced diabetes, ask your doctor or nurse to refer you to a diabetes education program. These programs help newly diagnosed people with diabetes learn about their disease and manage their condition so that they continue to live a healthy and productive life. If a program is not available where you live, a registered dietitian should be able to give you the information you need.

Kidney disease: Because the kidney is often affected by lupus, your doctor will probably order a variety of tests every so often to see how well your kidneys are working. If your doctor determines that your lupus has affected your kidney, the goals for treating the problem will be to preserve as much kidney function as possible and prevent the condition from getting worse. Along with other treatment options, you may be placed on a low-sodium (salt), low-potassium, or low-protein diet. A registered dietitian can help you plan meals for these diets.

Cardiovascular disease: Cardiovascular complications of lupus include atherosclerosis and high blood pressure. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty deposits build up on the inside of the arteries. These deposits can reduce or block blood flow. High blood pressure increases the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. High blood pressure can happen when lupus damages the kidneys, which help regulate blood pressure.

If your doctor determines that you have risk factors for atherosclerosis, you will probably be placed on a low-fat diet and an exercise plan. These will help you lower your blood cholesterol level and maintain a good body weight. If you have high blood pressure, you may be placed on a low-sodium diet, medication, or both. These will help reduce your blood pressure to within normal limits.

For additional information on nutrition, please visit Health Canada site at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hppb/nutrition/pube/foodguid/index.html

Reference: Lupus: a Patient Care Guide for Nurses and Other Health Professionals

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease/National Institutes of Health