What is autoimmune disease?

Autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system wrongly attacks healthy cells in the body. In other words, the immune system recognises autoantigens as harmful foreign agents and attacks. This multifactorial condition usually results from autoreactive B and T cells. The pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases mainly involves the inflammatory process and too much cytokine production. 

How many types exist?

To date, there are many different types of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple Sclerosis, lupus and celiac disease, among others. While the exact causes of autoimmune diseases are not fully understood, genetics and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Many factors play a key in autoimmune conditions, such as environmental and genetic factors with a myriad of elements associated with autoimmune. However, there are two types of autoimmune diseases:

  • T and B cells are engaged in recognising self-antigens in tissue-specific disorders. Some examples of this type of autoimmunity are:

Type 1 diabetes is a condition in which the cells in the pancreas where insulin is produced are attacked by the immune system leading to high blood sugar levels.

Multiple Sclerosis: a disease that affects the nervous system, causing damage to the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibres and leading to symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

Celiac disease: an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system assaults the lining of the small intestine in response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.

  • The production of autoreactive antibodies against different autoantigens characterises systemic autoimmune disease. These diseases can affect multiple organs and tissues, leading to various symptoms and complications. Some examples of this type of autoimmune are:

Systemic Lupus erythematosus (SLE): This disease can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs. Symptoms can include joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and fever.

Sjogren’s syndrome affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, leading to dry eyes and mouth. It can also cause joint pain and fatigue.

Systemic Sclerosis (scleroderma): leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and breathing.

Rheumatoid arthritis: This condition causes chronic inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD): this disease is characterised by a combination of symptoms from different autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, scleroderma and polymyositis

Some Signs and Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain, stiffness
  • Swelling and redness
  • Muscles ache and pain
  • Digestive disorders and abdominal pain
  • Swollen glands
  • Skin problems
  • Recurring fever
  • Difficult healing
  • Difficult to sleep

How nutrition can affect these conditions?

Nutrition can also play a crucial role in developing and managing autoimmune diseases. Some nutrients have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help decrease inflammation and pain associated with autoimmune diseases. Additionally, some dietary may trigger or worsen autoimmune symptoms in some individuals. However, Up to date, no nutrient specific that prevents inflammation. Though, a restriction of the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and an increase of regulatory T-cell function may be promising to decrease inflammation.

Moreover, “an anti-inflammatory diet limited in pro-inflammatory compounds can be used to control autoimmunity”. Here are some examples of how nutrition can affect autoimmune disease:

Vitamin D: low levels of this vitamin have been associated with an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, including multiple Sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. Vitamin D may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Omega 3 fatty acids: Most individuals think that Omega 3 is found only in fish oil, but it may not be the best with all the pollutants found in fish, such as Mercury and microplastics. However, some seeds and nuts contain Omega 3 and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce joint pain and stiffness in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Gluten: individuals with celiac disease must avoid gluten, a protein in wheat, barley, and rye. For individuals with celiac disease, gluten can trigger an immune response that injures the small intestine, leading to nutrient deficiencies and other health problems.

Nightshade vegetables: Some individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, may sometimes be sensitive to nightshade vegetables,  including tomatoes, potatoes and pepper. These vegetables contain compounds called alkaloids that may exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.

Sugar and processed foods: Eating a diet high in sugar and processed foods may increase inflammation and worsen symptoms in individuals with autoimmune diseases. A diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

It is important to note that nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle for managing autoimmune diseases. Working with a  healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes and other therapies is essential.

Conventional Treatment

The main drugs used for Rheumatoid arthritis are steroids, cytotoxic and biological agents to dump the immune system activity, while other medicines are used to relax muscles for multiple sclerosis.

How we can help you to restore your Immune System Health 

Our Integrative Functional Approach can help you:

The restoration of gut health by applying the 5Rs will be a benefit.

Sometimes, removing allergens such as gluten, dairy products, or infections will significantly benefit.

Replacement of digestive enzymes

Repopulate the gut with friendly bacteria

Repair the gut wall with L-glutamine and other supplements, herbs, and food

Rebalance lifestyle with a healthy diet

Changes in lifestyles, such as adequate sleep, decreasing stress levels, adding physical activity, and supplements tend to calm and modulate the immune system activity.

We worked with clients to identify their specific immune systems issues and empower them to restore and balance their immune systems with a personalised health and lifestyle plan. You will be supported and guided step-by-step to balance your immune system.

We address the root cause and design a personalised health plan to support your health and balance your immune system. We will help you by sustaining and restoring your Immune System health for the long haul with lifelong tools.

Your Next Step

In-depth health assessment

€‎145

  • A full in-depth health assessment (90 minutes)

ln-depth health assessment + 1 follow-up consultation

€‎195

  • A full in-depth health assessment (90 minutes)
  • One follow-up (45 minutes)

ln-depth health assessment + 2 follow-up consultations

€‎245

  • A full in-depth assessment (90 minutes)
  • Two one-to-one follow-ups (45 minutes each)