Given the demonstrated beneficial effects of the Mediterranean dietary pattern in autoimmune disease and the potential benefit of a high-fermented-food diet on inflammatory profiles, we aim to determine the feasibility and relative benefit of a Mediterranean dietary pattern versus a high-fermented-food diet on inflammatory markers and clinical outcomes in individuals with SLE. The primary aim of the study is to evaluate the feasibility of 'good and very good' adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern and to a high-fermented-food diet by individuals with SLE. Secondary aims will determine the effects of the Mediterranean dietary pattern and a high-fermented-food diet on attenuating inflammation and disease activity in individuals with SLE. This is a 4-month randomized controlled trial with a 1-month baseline of usual diet and 3-month intervention. Participants will complete the online DHQ III and diet adherence questionnaires monthly. Blood will be obtained at randomization and at the end of the intervention period for analysis of inflammatory cytokines. Dietary intake during baseline and intervention will be assessed by 5, ASA 24-h dietary recalls.
