Justin,
I can give you an anecdotal reply.  I was diagnosed with lupus 21 years ago, and
I have had lupus for 26 years.

My lupus is not healed because whenever I cheat from a basically paleo diet my
symptoms return.

However, without any idea that this would happen - so, no possibility of the
placebo effect - 90 % of my lupus symptoms disappeared after a couple months of
eating no grains, sugar or processed foods.  I have taken no prescription
medication for my lupus for 3 1/2 years - the longest I have ever gone without
doing so.  Once in awhile (less than once a month) I take some ibuprofen.

Your friend should try the paleo diet.  He or she will not be hurt by it, and
may find tremendous relief!

Paula H.