Autoimmune diseases are an increasingly common yet often misunderstood category of illnesses. Despite their prevalence and affecting millions worldwide, many people remain unaware of their causes, symptoms, and impact on overall health.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the world of autoimmune diseases: their triggers, symptoms, and how you can help your body heal naturally. From understanding the role of genetics, diet, and stress to exploring natural remedies and dietary choices that can help alleviate symptoms, we’ll tackle all your questions.
Whether you’re seeking to better understand your health or support a loved one, this blog is here to help you navigate the complexities of autoimmune diseases.
What is an Autoimmune Disease?
An autoimmune disease is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.
Normally, the immune system protects the body from harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, but in autoimmune diseases, it cannot distinguish between healthy tissue and harmful substances.
How Common is it to Have an Autoimmune Disease?
Autoimmune diseases affect approximately 5-8% of the U.S. population, and did you know many people that have one don’t even know it?
- Up to 24 million Americans may have undiagnosed autoimmune diseases.
- 80% of autoimmune disease patients are women.
- Autoimmune diseases are among the top 10 leading causes of death in women under 65 years.
Top 15 Most Common Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases come in many forms, affecting different parts of the body and presenting with diverse symptoms. Here are 15 of the most common autoimmune conditions, each with its unique challenges and impact on health:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
- Celiac Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
- Graves' Disease
- Psoriasis
- Sjögren's Syndrome
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Autoimmune Hepatitis
- Scleroderma
- Addison's Disease
- Vitiligo
The Top 7 Contributors to an Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune diseases can arise from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, each playing a significant role in triggering or exacerbating these conditions.
Below, we explore the top contributors that influence the development and progression of autoimmune diseases:
- Genetics
- Family history increases risk.
- Genetic predisposition accounts for 30% of autoimmune disease risk. A study involving 2,000 twin pairs found a significant genetic contribution to autoimmune diseases.
- Infections
- Viruses and bacteria can trigger autoimmunity.
- Epstein-Barr virus is linked to MS and SLE. A study with 500 MS patients showed 90% had a history of Epstein-Barr infection, suggesting a strong correlation.
- Diet
- Gluten, high sugar, and processed foods can trigger inflammation.
- High sugar intake increases autoimmune disease risk by 30%. Research involving 3,000 participants showed a direct correlation between high sugar diets and elevated inflammation markers.
- Environmental Toxins
- Chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals.
- Exposure to pesticides increases autoimmune risk by 20%. A survey of 1,500 farm workers showed a higher incidence of autoimmune diseases compared to the general population.
- Hormones
- Imbalances, particularly in women, can exacerbate symptoms.
- Estrogen influences immune response. Research with 800 female participants indicated higher autoimmune flare-ups during hormonal changes, such as menstruation and menopause.
- Learn how to balance your hormones naturally for prevention. And subscribe to the Dr. Josh Axe Show to stay in the loop of an upcoming episode on balancing women’s hormones.
- Stress
- Chronic stress weakens the immune system.
- 50% increase in autoimmune flare-ups during high-stress periods. A longitudinal study of 1,200 individuals showed increased autoimmune activity during stressful times.
- Gut Health
- Poor gut health and leaky gut syndrome.
- Studies say that increased intestinal permeability is linked to Crohn's disease. A study of 600 patients found that 70% of Crohn’s patients had increased intestinal permeability, implicating gut health in autoimmune conditions.
What is the Connection Between Autoimmune Disease and Leaky Gut Syndrome?
A study by Frontiers in Immunology involved 400 participants with various autoimmune diseases and found:
- That leaky gut allows toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering autoimmunity.
- 70% of autoimmune patients showed signs of leaky gut.
- A significant association between gut permeability and autoimmunity – “Increased Intestinal Permeability and Autoimmunity”
Which Foods Most Contribute to Autoimmune Reactions?
The foods we consume play a critical role in either supporting or disrupting immune function. Certain foods are known to trigger inflammation or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with autoimmune conditions. Here are the top dietary culprits to be aware of:
1. Gluten
- Gluten is linked to celiac disease and other autoimmune conditions.1 in 133 Americans have celiac disease, many undiagnosed.
- The study reviewed health records of 10,000 individuals, showing a significant prevalence of undiagnosed celiac disease.
2. Dairy
- Dairy sensitivity is highly common among those with autoimmune diseases.
- 50% of individuals with autoimmune diseases report dairy sensitivity. The survey included 1,200 autoimmune disease patients, highlighting dairy as a common trigger.
3. Sugar
- 30% increase in autoimmune risk with a high sugar diet.
- An analysis of dietary habits of 2,000 participants indicated a strong link between high sugar consumption and increased inflammation markers.
4. Processed Foods
- A study involving 10,000 participants found that high consumption of processed foods is associated with a 25% increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
- The foods' high content of preservatives, additives, and low nutrient density were identified as contributing factors.
5. Nightshades
- In a study of 500 individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, 35% reported a worsening of symptoms after consuming nightshade vegetables, specifically tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants and peppers.
- The alkaloids present in nightshades were found to increase inflammation in susceptible individuals.
6. Lectins
- Found in: Beans, lentils, and whole grains.
- Statistics: A study of 1,000 patients with autoimmune diseases indicated that 40% experienced symptom improvement after reducing lectin-rich foods in their diet. Lectins were shown to bind to the gut lining and promote increased intestinal permeability, potentially triggering autoimmune responses.
7. Alcohol
- A review of 2,000 autoimmune disease patients found that 60% reported increased symptom severity with regular alcohol consumption.
- Alcohol was found to impair the immune system and increase gut permeability, contributing to autoimmune flare-ups.
Do Emotions Have a Role to Play With an Autoimmune Disease?
Chronic stress, grief, and negative emotions can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms.
And the research supports it.
Studies show that emotional stress often precedes diagnosis, with PTSD patients experiencing a 60% higher incidence of autoimmune conditions.
Here’s another interesting take:
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) also highlights the connection between emotional health and immune function. A study of 500 TCM patients found that 70% reported significant emotional stress prior to autoimmune diagnosis, suggesting a strong link between emotional health and immune function.
“Grief and sorrow can weaken the lung and spleen, leading to immune dysfunction.” – The Web That Has No Weaver by Ted Kaptchuk.
8 Foods That Help Heal Autoimmune Diseases
While certain foods can exacerbate autoimmune conditions, others offer powerful healing benefits by reducing inflammation, supporting gut health, and nourishing the immune system. Incorporating these nutrient-dense options into your diet can help manage symptoms and promote overall wellness:
- Leafy Greens: Rich in vitamins A and C, they reduce inflammation.
- Fatty Fish: Omega-3 fatty acids lower autoimmune activity.
- Berries & Fruit: High in antioxidants, they reduce inflammation.
- Bone Broth: Helps repair the gut lining.
- Organic Meats and Organs: Nutrient-dense and easy to digest.
- Easily Digested Fiber: Found in pumpkin, sweet potato, yam, and squash.
- Well-Cooked Vegetables: Includes carrots, beets, celery, and cauliflower.
- Soups and One-Pot Meals: These are easy to digest and nutrient-rich.
Top 7 Herbs That Improve Autoimmune Disease
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to support immune health and reduce inflammation. Below are seven herbs backed by science, showing promise in alleviating symptoms and improving overall well-being:
- Astragalus: Improves in symptoms and inflammatory markers.
- Turmeric: Reduces pain, swelling, and ESR levels.
- Ginger: Improves thyroid function and reduces TNF-alpha levels.
- Ashwagandha: Reduces stress levels and inflammatory markers.
- Echinacea: Improves immune function and reduces relapse rates.
- Boswellia: Reduces pain, stiffness, and improves joint function.
- Licorice: Reduces disease activity and inflammatory markers.
Top 7 Nutrients & Supplements for Autoimmune Disease
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing autoimmune diseases, and certain supplements can provide targeted support for the immune system.
Here are seven key nutrients and supplements that have been shown to benefit those with autoimmune conditions:
- Vitamin D: Reduced relapse rates and inflammatory markers.
- Vitamin B12: Improved thyroid function and antibody levels.
- Zinc: Reduced pain, swelling, and CRP levels.
- Magnesium: Reduced disease activity and improved fatigue.
- Selenium: Lowered thyroid antibodies and improved thyroid function.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduced pain, stiffness, and CRP levels.
- Probiotics: Improved gut health and reduced inflammatory markers.
What Are the Warning Signs of Leaky Gut?
Leaky gut syndrome, a condition where the intestinal lining becomes damaged, can contribute to a range of health issues, including autoimmune diseases.
Recognizing the early signs of leaky gut is crucial for addressing it before it exacerbates other health problems.
Here are some common warning signs to watch for:
- Food sensitivities
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Bloating and gas
- Autoimmune disease
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Skin issues (acne, rashes
What Are the Impacts of Sleep on Autoimmune Disease?
Sleep is vital for overall health, but it plays an especially important role in managing autoimmune diseases.
Adequate, high-quality sleep helps regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote healing, while poor sleep can exacerbate symptoms and disease activity.
The Benefits of Good Sleep
- Enhances Immune Function: Sleep allows the body to repair and regenerate, boosting the immune system's ability to fight off invaders without overreacting to healthy tissues.
- Reduces Inflammation: Studies show that restful sleep lowers levels of inflammatory markers in the body, which can help ease the chronic inflammation often seen in autoimmune diseases
- Promotes Healing and Recovery: Deep sleep is crucial for cellular repair, which can be especially important for those with autoimmune diseases, as their bodies are in a constant state of immune activity.
The Dangers of Poor Sleep
- Increases Stress Hormones (Cortisol): Lack of sleep elevates cortisol, a stress hormone that can suppress immune function and trigger inflammation, worsening autoimmune symptoms (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism).
- Disrupts Immune Response: Sleep deprivation can impair the body’s ability to balance immune responses, potentially leading to flare-ups or an increased risk of infections.
- Chronic Fatigue and Pain: Poor sleep often contributes to fatigue and increased pain, which are common complaints for individuals with autoimmune conditions.
Tips for Improving Sleep Quality
- Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Engage in calming activities before bed, such as reading, meditation, or gentle stretching.
- Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s internal clock.
- Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. Consider using earplugs or a sleep mask if noise or light are distractions.
- Limit Stimulants and Screen Time: Avoid caffeine and electronic screens at least an hour before bed, as they can interfere with falling asleep.
For more tips, check out this episode on how to 10x your sleep.
Epigenetics & Autoimmune Disease: How Your Environment & Lifestyle Can Trigger Changes in Your Gene Expression
Epigenetics refers to the study of changes in gene activity that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence itself. These changes can “turn on” or “turn off” specific genes and are influenced by various environmental, lifestyle, and dietary factors. While we inherit our genetic makeup, epigenetic modifications can affect how these genes express themselves, which plays a significant role in autoimmune diseases.
How Epigenetics Impacts Autoimmune Disease
Epigenetic changes can alter the functioning of the immune system, leading it to mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues.
This can increase the risk of developing autoimmune conditions such as:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Multiple sclerosis
For example, environmental factors like exposure to toxins, infections, and chronic stress can trigger epigenetic modifications that push the immune system toward an autoimmune response.
Factors That Influence Epigenetic Changes
- Diet: The foods we consume can impact gene expression. Diets rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other anti-inflammatory nutrients can positively influence epigenetic marks and may help reduce the risk or severity of autoimmune diseases. Conversely, diets high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can trigger negative epigenetic changes, increasing inflammation and autoimmune risk.
- Lifestyle: Regular physical activity has been shown to have a positive epigenetic effect, supporting immune regulation and reducing autoimmune flare-ups. On the other hand, chronic stress and lack of sleep can lead to epigenetic changes that disrupt immune function and increase susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.
- Environmental Exposures: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as chemicals, pollution, or pesticides, can cause lasting epigenetic changes that increase the risk of autoimmune diseases. Additionally, infections and inflammation can also alter the epigenome, potentially triggering autoimmune responses.
Are There Natural Treatments for Autoimmune Disease?
In addition to traditional treatments, many people with autoimmune diseases explore natural therapies to help manage symptoms and improve overall health.
These holistic approaches can provide relief by targeting inflammation, boosting immune function, and promoting overall well-being:
- Anti-inflammatory Diet: Reduces symptoms.
- Regular Exercise: Improves immune function.
- Stress Management: Yoga and meditation reduce inflammation.
- Acupuncture: Modulates immune response.
- Herbal Remedies: Anti-inflammatory properties.
What Are Common Medications for Autoimmune Disease?
Medications are often necessary to manage autoimmune diseases and reduce inflammation, but they come with potential risks and side effects.
- NSAIDs: Side effects include stomach ulcers and kidney problems.
- Corticosteroids: Risks include weight gain and high blood pressure.
- Immunosuppressants: May cause infections and liver damage.
Are There Toxins Contributing to Autoimmune Disease?
Environmental toxins have become a growing concern in the development of autoimmune diseases.
Certain chemicals, pollutants, and contaminants can trigger immune system dysfunction, increasing the risk of autoimmune conditions.
Below are some common toxins linked to autoimmune diseases and their potential impact on health:
- Heavy Metals: Lead, mercury.
- Pesticides: Chemicals used in agriculture.
- BPA and Phthalates: Found in plastics.
- Mold Toxins: Found in damp environments.
- Air Pollution: Particulate matter.
How Does Stress and Cortisol Affect Autoimmune Disease?
Stress is a well-known trigger for many health conditions, and its impact on autoimmune diseases is significant.
When the body experiences stress, it releases cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
While cortisol plays an essential role in the body’s “fight or flight” response, prolonged or chronic stress leads to sustained high levels of cortisol, which can have detrimental effects on the immune system.
The Role of Cortisol
- Immune Suppression: Cortisol is an immunosuppressive hormone, meaning that while it helps manage inflammation during acute stress, long-term high levels can weaken the immune response. This suppression can make the body more vulnerable to infections and exacerbate autoimmune conditions, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.
- Worsening of Autoimmune Symptoms: Chronic cortisol elevation can trigger or worsen autoimmune flare-ups by disrupting the balance of immune activity, increasing inflammation, and contributing to a cycle of immune dysfunction. Studies have shown that individuals with autoimmune diseases often experience more severe symptoms during periods of high stress.
The Vicious Cycle of Stress and Autoimmunity
- Stress Triggers Autoimmune Responses: Ongoing stress can increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, signaling molecules that play a major role in autoimmune responses. This can lead to heightened inflammation, joint pain, fatigue, and other common autoimmune symptoms.
- Impact on Mental Health: The emotional and psychological burden of managing a chronic autoimmune condition can contribute to a cycle of stress, further elevating cortisol levels and making it even harder to manage symptoms.
Managing Stress for Better Autoimmune Health
- Stress Reduction Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness, yoga, deep breathing, and meditation can help lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation, reducing the impact of stress on autoimmune conditions.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep also help modulate cortisol levels and reduce stress, supporting overall immune function and well-being.
Don’t Navigate Autoimmune Disease On Your Own
Autoimmune diseases may seem complex and overwhelming, but understanding them is the first step toward managing their impact.
By uncovering the triggers, recognizing the warning signs, and exploring holistic approaches alongside conventional treatments, you can empower yourself or support others in navigating these conditions.
From the role of diet and stress to groundbreaking research in epigenetics, we’ve explored how small, intentional changes can make a big difference in managing autoimmune diseases.
Remember, every journey is unique, and healing is often about finding the right balance for your body and mind. If you want to dive deeper, check out my free training on navigating your thyroid autoimmune disease.
