The autoimmune diseases: Are there any solutions?
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The Immune diseases occur when the immune system malfunctions, either by attacking the body's own tissues (autoimmune disorders) or by failing to fight off infections (immunodeficiency). Examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, while allergic disorders, such as asthma and eczema, involve an exaggerated reaction to harmless substances. These conditions have a wide range of symptoms and can affect almost every part of the body. Imagine your body as a fortress, and your immune system as an army fighting off invaders like germs. If this army malfunctions and attacks the fortress, you may have an autoimmune disease. There is no cure for autoimmune diseases, but your doctor can help you find treatments to manage your symptoms.
The causes of Autoimmune Diseases
Doctors don't know exactly what causes the immune system to malfunction. However, some people are more prone to developing autoimmune diseases than others.
Some factors that may increase your risk of developing autoimmune diseases include:
Your Sex
People born female, aged 15 to 44, are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases than those born male.
Your Family History
You may be more prone to developing autoimmune diseases due to inherited genes, although environmental factors may also contribute. Some disorders, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis, tend to have a genetic component (3, 4). If you have relatives with autoimmune diseases, you are more likely to develop them (though not necessarily the same condition).
The environmental Factors
Exposure to sunlight, mercury, chemicals such as solvents or those used in agriculture, cigarette smoke, or certain bacterial and viral infections, including COVID-19, may increase your risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
ethnicity
Some autoimmune diseases are more common in certain groups. For example, white people from Europe and the United States may be more likely to develop autoimmune muscle diseases, while lupus tends to occur more frequently in people of African, Hispanic, or Latino descent.
nutrition
Your diet and nutrient intake may affect your risk of developing autoimmune diseases and their severity.
Other health conditions
Certain health conditions, including obesity and other autoimmune diseases, may increase your likelihood of developing autoimmune diseases.
Obesity
Since approximately 35% of the world’s population (13) and 72% of adults in the United States are overweight or obese (14), it is important to understand the relationship between obesity and other chronic diseases, such as autoimmune diseases. Excess weight is associated with more than ten autoimmune diseases and may play a role in other diseases (13). It has been found to increase the risk of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Fat—or adipose tissue—plays a role in many physiological functions, including metabolism and the immune response. When fatty tissue accumulates and becomes dysfunctional, it can lead to an overproduction or imbalance of compounds called adipokines. In this case, these biologically active substances tend to be pro-inflammatory and significantly alter immune system function. Research in this area is ongoing, but we are discovering that these factors (and possibly others, such as changes in gut microbiota and intestinal imbalances) can lead to organ damage, metabolic syndrome, and autoimmune diseases.
Smoking and Toxic Substance Exposure
Smoking is linked to rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and other autoimmune diseases. Why? When tobacco is burned, thousands of chemicals are produced—some of which are known to be toxic. Inhaling this smoke affects the immune system through various complex interactions, including inflammatory responses, immunosuppression, cytokine dysregulation (the signaling molecules involved in autoimmunity), and the development of autoantibodies. Exposure to other toxins, such as air pollutants, crystalline silica, ultraviolet radiation, or organic solvents, is also linked to the development of autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis.
Certain Medications
Many people take medications daily to lower blood pressure, treat depression and anxiety, or balance cholesterol levels. These medications are known to have potential side effects. We are discovering that in some cases, these side effects affect the immune system and may trigger autoimmune reactions. Some blood pressure medications, statins, and antibiotics can trigger drug-induced autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or autoimmune hepatitis.
Infections
Early exposure to certain infections increases susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. The presence of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which tends to present as a mild childhood illness and then become latent, is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome. Another infectious microorganism—a bacterium called group A streptococcus—can cause autoimmune diseases affecting the heart, joints, and brain, including acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. These viruses interact with your genes through various mechanisms. In short, they can activate specific genes that affect the immune system's ability to distinguish between self and non-self, triggering an autoimmune response. The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is linked to autoimmune diseases in various ways, although researchers are still investigating this relationship. COVID-19 infection has been reported to trigger cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, antiphospholipid syndrome, lupus, and other conditions.
General symptoms
Persistent fatigue or tiredness, sometimes to the point of flu-like symptoms.
Recurrent or low-grade fever
Swollen glands: Feeling swollen or painful glands.
General feeling of being unwell: A persistent feeling that something is wrong.
Joint pain and stiffness: Pain, swelling, or stiffness in the joints.
Muscle pain or weakness
Skin rash, sores, or other skin problems.
Dry or flaky skin
Thickening, tightness, or discoloration of the skin
Abdominal pain
Problems such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
Unexplained weight loss or gain.
Mental confusion
Memory problems
Or difficulty concentrating
Hair loss or breakage
Dry eyes
Or changes in vision
The types of Autoimmune Diseases
There are more than 100 different types of autoimmune diseases. These diseases can affect almost any tissue or organ in the body, depending on where the immune system malfunctions, including:
Joints
Muscles
Skin
Blood Vessels
Gastrointestinal System
Endocrine System
Nervous System
Joints and Muscles
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Lupus
Myositis
Skin and Blood Vessels
Sjögren's Syndrome
Psoriasis
Psoriatic Arthritis
Dermatomyositis
Scleroderma
Vasculitis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Urticaria
Vitiligo
Gastrointestinal System
Crohn's Disease
Celiac Disease
Ulcerative Colitis
Autoimmune Gastritis
Endocrine System
Type 1 Diabetes
Addison's Disease
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Graves' Disease Nervous system
Multiple sclerosis (MS).
Myasthenia gravis (MG).
Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIPD).
The best Foods for People with Autoimmune Diseases
Identifying foods that may specifically trigger your flare-ups can help you heal and feel better while managing your autoimmune condition. Read more about diets you can follow to reduce disease triggers, and consult your doctor about the best diet for you.
Anti-Inflammatory Fruits
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and cranberries are rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which may reduce inflammation.
Cherries: Both sweet and tart cherries contain polyphenols and vitamin C, which have anti-inflammatory effects.
Apples: A good source of fiber, vitamin C, and polyphenols, apples have been linked to anti-inflammatory effects and gut health.
Oranges and Citrus Fruits: Rich in vitamin C, which is important for immune function, and other antioxidants.
Avocados: A good source of vitamin E and vitamin C, which have anti-inflammatory effects and may help reduce joint pain.
Pineapple: Contains the enzyme bromelain, which helps reduce inflammation and pain and supports the immune system.
Mangoes: Contain vitamin C, carotenoids, and polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against bone damage.
Grapes: Red and black grapes contain resveratrol, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties that can also benefit heart health.
Vegetables
Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and other leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants like sulforaphane, which help reduce inflammation.
Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain sulforaphane and other nutrients that support the immune system and help the body eliminate toxins. However, while generally healthy, they can sometimes cause digestive issues for some people with conditions like Crohn's disease, so it's important to consider your individual needs.
Beets: These starchy vegetables have a low glycemic index and contain a peptide that may help treat inflammatory diseases.
Cucumbers, carrots, celery, squash, sweet potatoes, and zucchini are good sources of vitamins and antioxidants.
Healthy proteins (fish or beans)
Whole grains
Healthy oils (extra virgin olive oil)
Low-processed meats (wild game, poultry)
Bone and meat broths
Non-dairy fermented foods (pickles, sauerkraut)
Vinegar (sugar-free)
Best Drinks
Celery Juice
While green juices have a rather strong flavor and don't pair well with all fruits, we prefer freshly squeezed celery juice. When squeezed, it has a milder aroma, and you can even drink it straight. This is recommended by Anthony Williams, celery juice expert and bestselling author, who attributes numerous health benefits to it.
Kombucha
These powerful, sugar-free drinks aid digestion and promote gut health thanks to the probiotics.
Fresh Cabbage Juice
Not only is it incredibly healthy, but it tastes much better than you think. If it's made from raw sauerkraut, it will have a salty flavor, which is something we enjoy. Fresh sauerkraut juice contains all the healthy components except fiber, in addition to numerous vitamins and minerals. These components include one thing in particular: millions of lactic acid bacteria produced during the fermentation of white or sauerkraut. These microorganisms are essential for gut health, as they are capable of killing harmful bacteria and germs. In a sense, raw sauerkraut and its juice are a natural probiotic, as well as a natural remedy for detoxification and cleansing the digestive system. This not only improves gut health but also ensures a strong immune system at the same time. As mentioned earlier, a healthy gut produces 70-80% of the immune cells necessary to maintain our health.
Maple syrup and honey
Tea (green, black)
Top herbs
Ginger
It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help prevent viruses from infecting the upper respiratory tract. It also helps relieve congestion.
Garlic
Contains antioxidants that protect the immune system and has antimicrobial properties that help prevent colds.
Turmeric
Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage.
Oregano
Contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol with potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Thyme
Rich in vitamins A and C, it boosts the immune system and contains thymol and carvacrol, which have antioxidant and antibacterial benefits.
Rosemary
Can improve circulation and may help the body fight diseases caused by free radicals.
Parsley
A good source of vitamin C, which plays a key role in strengthening the immune system to help fight pathogens.
Worst Herbs
Spices derived from nightshade vegetables (such as paprika)
Worst Foods for Autoimmune Disease Patients
Food Dyes
Red and Processed Meats
Refined Sugars
Fried Foods
Margarine
Dairy Products
Soft Drinks
Nightshade Vegetables (Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplant, Potatoes)
Eggs
Legumes
Grains
Nuts and Seeds
Oils
Coffee
Legumes and corn are usually avoided on the AIP diet.
Dietary Supplements
Always consult your doctor before taking dietary supplements, keeping in mind that you will obtain vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients through a healthy diet and a balanced eating plan.
Research on the beneficial effects of vitamins and other dietary supplements on autoimmune diseases is also limited. A 2022 clinical study reported that adults who took
1. Vitamin D
Immune System Modulator: Recent research has revolutionized our understanding of vitamin D. It is not just a vitamin, but a powerful hormone that directly affects the immune system. Patients who take vitamin D supplements correctly under medical supervision notice significant improvement. While most people are aware of the importance of vitamin D for bone health, its functions extend far beyond that:
It regulates more than 200 genes in the body.
It directly regulates immune cell function.
It helps reduce markers of inflammation.
It supports overall immune system balance.
It affects mood and energy levels.
It may help prevent autoimmune diseases.
2. Fish Oil/Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Natural Anti-inflammatory Support
When patients visit my rheumatologist's office on-demand for natural anti-inflammatory solutions, I often discuss the remarkable potential of fish oil. While many know it for heart health, its benefits for autoimmune diseases are equally impressive. The scientific evidence is overwhelming: Omega-3 fatty acids work by modulating the same inflammatory pathways as many conventional medications, but through natural mechanisms. Research shows that omega-3s work by:
Inhibiting inflammatory COX-2 enzymes (similar to NSAIDs)
Reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines
Supporting cell membrane health
Promoting inflammation healing
Immune system regulation, and much more.
3. Probiotics
The relationship between the digestive and immune systems: Scientists have discovered that the complex ecosystem of microorganisms in our digestive tract plays a crucial role in our health, from developing and maintaining our immune system to managing inflammatory responses throughout the body. The gut microbiome influences how autoimmune diseases develop and affects how efficiently we absorb nutrients from our food, ultimately impacting our overall health.
Unfortunately, modern lifestyle factors have led to what scientists call "bacterial imbalance"—an unhealthy disruption in the gut bacteria population. Our increased consumption of processed foods and frequent use of antibiotics have drastically altered our gut microbiome. Add to that the effects of chronic stress, exposure to environmental toxins, and a diet lacking in fiber, and you have a perfect environment for disrupting the natural bacterial balance in our bodies.
Given this close link between gut health and immune function, many patients ask me about probiotics as a potential solution. Probiotics, which are beneficial live bacteria, have emerged as a promising tool for restoring balance to our gut microbiome.
The studies have shown promising results
75% improvement in psoriasis symptoms
Reduction in inflammatory markers in rheumatoid arthritis
Improved intestinal barrier function
Enhanced immune regulation
Better treatment responses and many other benefits
The Best Lifestyle for People with Autoimmune Diseases
1. Nourish Your Mitochondria
Properly nourish your mitochondria to repair damaged cells and prevent future damage. Imagine your mitochondria as millions of young athletes in your body. Your athletes need the right conditions and nutrition to grow and function efficiently, which they can't get from junk food, a stressful and inflammatory environment, or excessive exposure to toxins. If they're trying to survive in an unhealthy environment, they weaken and end up dying prematurely, so now you have fewer athletes (or mitochondria) to cleanse your body of even more toxins! So how do we properly nourish our mitochondria, beyond just eating a healthy diet? Clean up your personal and household products. Many of the household and personal cleaning products, cosmetics, lotions, etc., that we use are highly toxic and harmful. Using products with a high toxic load increases mitochondrial stress. Carefully check the ingredients of your products.
2. Manage your stress and calm your nervous system.
Stress causes a rise in cortisol levels, which in turn causes inflammation... everywhere. With chronically elevated cortisol and inflammation, bodily processes, including digestion, detoxification, and recovery, slow down. This is because when you're in danger, these other normal functions don't become a priority. The problem arises when stress becomes chronic, which is very common in our society today due to all the demands and pressures we constantly face. At that point, it becomes difficult for the body to distinguish between what is life-threatening and what is merely annoying and demanding, but will eventually pass. Studies indicate that stress can also trigger the onset and exacerbation of lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, also due to an increase in the inflammatory cascade that occurs when stress or trauma occurs, or when they become chronic. In a recent study, stress was strongly linked to the development of autoimmune diseases. To support your body's healing, it's important to calm your nervous system, relax, and release stress so you can take control of your nervous system and your body's responses, thus potentially preventing the development of lupus or autoimmune rheumatoid arthritis. Again, this work must be actively done by you, not your doctor or trainer. It takes time to make it a conscious practice and a consistent routine.
3. Get More Sleep
Society often praises those who "don't need" sleep, who can work longer hours, and who are supposedly more productive. However, this perception has changed in recent years as we've come to understand the importance of sleep for proper healing, functional performance, and vitality. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 70 million people suffer from sleep disorders, and poor health is a direct contributor to sleep deprivation. Research has also shown that the nervous and immune systems are interconnected, and that the neurons (nerve cells) associated with sleep are directly linked to the immune system. When you have an autoimmune disease, including ulcerative colitis or lupus, sleep becomes even more important to allow your immune system to heal and regenerate.
How much sleep do you need?
The average adult needs 7-9 hours of good quality sleep regularly. Less than that doesn't allow your immune system to do its job, and your brain won't be able to function at its full potential without this sleep. Some studies also suggest that going to bed by 10 p.m. allows for deeper, more restful sleep. But most importantly, you need to follow a regular sleep schedule—going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.
4. Exercise regularly.
Because autoimmune diseases vary in their symptoms and severity, you should consider your body when exercising. For some, walking is ideal, while for others, strength training may be more appropriate. Despite its intensity, exercise has proven to be an important part of managing autoimmune conditions. This is because it stimulates blood circulation, helping to supply tissues with oxygen and nutrients, remove waste products, and support detoxification. Unfortunately, autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and Hashimoto's disease, impair the proper flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body, making certain tissues more susceptible to inflammation and damage.
Due to its anti-inflammatory effects, exercise has shown strong evidence that it protects against chronic diseases and promotes the healing of various tissues and organs. In this context, exercise releases nitric oxide, a naturally occurring gas in the body that stimulates certain metabolic functions. Nitric oxide is known for its vasodilation and circulatory-boosting effects. Without going into too much scientific detail, I'll simply say that there are three different types of nitric oxide, and the type that typically rises in autoimmune inflammation can be destructive to body tissues. But the way to combat this inflammation and destruction is through exercise! Exercise releases a different type of nitric oxide, which aids in tissue repair and regeneration. Nitric oxide plays a significant role in regulating the immune system and suppressing the symptoms and flare-ups of lupus and other autoimmune diseases. Regarding exercise and autoimmune diseases, it's crucial to listen to your body's signals to assess your condition daily and take appropriate action. Push yourself to get the exercise going, get your blood flowing and sweating a little, but don't overexert yourself to the point of triggering an inflammatory flare-up. If you feel tired or weak but have enough energy for light activity, you may recover faster than if you didn't exercise at all. The key is consistency and daily movement, even if it's minimal.
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