Our bodies are intricate biological systems where our immune system acts as a vigilant guardian protecting us from foreign invaders including viruses and bacteria. But sometimes, this guardian turns rogue, mistakenly attacking our own tissues instead of those foreign invaders. This phenomenon defines autoimmune diseases, a concerning health concern on the rise, especially for women.
Research shows that women are twice as likely to be affected by autoimmune diseases than men. There are over 80 identified autoimmune diseases, affecting millions of people worldwide. Some well-known conditions include type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and psoriasis. Autoimmune disease can attack various tissues and affect various organs, muscles, connective tissue, eyes, intestines, and skin. These conditions, from rheumatoid arthritis to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, result from our immune cells misguidedly launching attacks on our own body tissues.
What Causes Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune disease occurs from two major factors – genetics and triggers. Whether or not a person is affected by autoimmune disease and what type of autoimmune disease occurs,
depends first on genes. We each have a very specific and individual genetic makeup. For example, a person who has celiac disease, in which their body reacts extremely to gluten, must have the gene for celiac disease. People who have non-celiac gluten intolerance, may have difficulty digesting gluten but if they don’t have the gene for celiac they will not have celiac disease.
But just having the gene for celiac or another autoimmune condition, doesn’t mean you will be affected by it. Certain factors, like environmental toxins, stress, and diet, can influence gene expression, triggering autoimmune responses. The foods we consume play a pivotal role when it comes to both turning on the gene expression and turning it off. When it comes to autoimmune disease, genetics may load the gun, but the factors that a person is exposed to pulls the trigger.
Conventional vs Functional Medicine Approach
The conventional approach to managing autoimmune diseases often involves medications that aim to suppress the immune system. While they might offer relief, they don’t target the actual cause of the symptoms. These medications typically come with a laundry list of side effects, sometimes adding more hurdles to the already challenging journey of managing autoimmune conditions.
A functional medicine approach strives to target the root cause of the symptoms and disease. Functional medicine is a game-changer in the world of autoimmune health and focuses on removing the triggers and utilizing the healing power of specific foods to heal from within and turn off the gene expression. Functional medicine offers a nourishing touch that is free of negative side effects. It’s not a quick fix but it is sustainable and affective.
For a functional approach to reversing autoimmune disease, consult with functional nutritional therapy practitioner, a naturopathic doctor ND, or an MD who specializes in functional medicine.
7 Steps to Reverse Autoimmune Disease
Remove Triggers – Identify and eliminate trigger foods that exacerbate inflammation and aggravate symptoms. Gluten, dairy, processed foods, and sugar often top the list. It may also be necessary to eliminate non-gluten grains, beans and legumes, and night shade vegetables during the healing process. These foods can sometimes be slowly reintroduced once the body is healed however, if symptoms return, it’s best to eliminate them permanently. Eliminate all processed foods that come in a package or a box that list more than 5 ingredients and don’t eat any foods that contain ingredients that you can’t identify or pronounce.
Eat Nutrient Dense Foods – Choose foods that are real foods, as close to their original source as grown in nature. These includes colorful fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, meats including beef, lamb, and pork, poultry and eggs, fish, and shellfish. Also, include natural
forms of fats including avocado oil, olive oil, ghee or butter if tolerated, coconut oil, and on occasion cold pressed walnut, pumpkin, flax and sesame seed oils.
Heal the Gut – To heal the gut first and foremost, remove triggers and choose a nutrient dense diet to optimize nutrients for healing. In addition, include one or more of these on a daily basis for gut healing. Consume bone broth either homemade or a high-quality store-bought version that gels when refrigerated. Add collagen to warm or cold liquids. Vital Proteins brand is flavorless and dissolves easily. Eat slow cooked meats such as chuck roast or chicken and soups or stews that contain gelatin and minerals for gut healing. Eat cooked vegetables instead of raw that are easier to digest. Include probiotic rich foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha for healthy gut flora. Drink herbal teas that contain mint, ginger, fennel, dandelion, marshmallow root, or licorice to reduce inflammation and relieve digestive symptoms.
Consider Supplementation – Natural supplementations of vitamins, minerals or herbs might be helpful and vary according to the autoimmune condition. For example, an iodine supplement might be helpful if you are experiencing thyroid problems, selenium supports the ovaries and testes, and magnesium supports various functions including the heart and cardiovascular system. Consult with your physician before starting any supplements to make sure they are right for you and that they don’t interfere with any medications.
Manage Stress – Stress can be a catalyst for autoimmune flareups. Prioritize stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or simply finding time for activities you love. Embrace practices that foster mental well-being, like mindfulness, journaling, or spending time in nature. A peaceful mind complements a healthy body.
Get Quality Sleep – Your body rejuvenates during sleep. Ensure you get quality sleep – it’s essential for immune function, healing, and overall well-being.
Engage in Gentle Activity – Choose gentle exercises that suit your body and condition. As your body heals, it’s best to engage in activities that do not trigger stress hormones. Whether it’s yoga, gentle walks, or low-impact activities, movement supports circulation and reduces inflammation.
Conclusion
Healing from autoimmune conditions isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon that requires patience, dedication, and a holistic approach. By nourishing your body with nutrient-dense foods, embracing lifestyle changes, and adopting a functional medicine perspective, you pave the way to not just symptom relief but potential recovery.
Remember, your body has an innate ability to heal, and the choices you make daily can be the guiding light on your path to reclaiming your health.
