In a new study, researchers explored experiences, perceptions, and health effects of a newly developed healthy lifestyle intervention for people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

This qualitative, descriptive study using focus group discussions included 19 individuals with SLE with high cardiovascular risk. They participated in a six-month behavioral lifestyle intervention aimed at changing lifestyle behaviors called Living Well with Lupus. The intervention involved goal-setting, home-based exercise, and nutritional counseling, in addition to standard care management of SLE and its comorbidities. Overall, individuals were mostly positive about the intervention components, and new behaviors and knowledge were achieved. Daily functioning, mental health and overall wellbeing improved. The intervention led to improved diet and physical activity habits such as meal planning, reading food labels, increasing water intake, exercising at home, and reducing sedentary time, with participants shifting their focus from weight loss to overall health improvement. However, changing behaviors can be individually challenging to maintain and researchers noted that other barriers include socioeconomic and environmental challenges. The study also highlighted the importance of personalized support and motivational interviewing to help participants overcome these barriers and sustain lifestyle changes.

This study highlights how a multifaceted lifestyle intervention can effectively improve healthy behaviors, including physical and mental wellbeing and can guide future studies exploring integration of lifestyle changes in SLE treatment. Learn more about staying active when you have lupus. 

Read the study