Autoimmune disorders can affect all aspects of our body. Collectively Autoimmune Disorders are one of the most prevalent diseases in the US, affecting up to 10% of the population. Studies show it can take on average 4.5 years and between 4-6 doctors before one gets a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease. During this time you can be having many different debilitating symptoms including:

Abdominal Pain, Acid Reflux, Anxiety/Depression, Bloating, Blood or Mucous in Stool, Blurry Vision, Confusion, Constipation, Dizziness/Lightheadedness, Dry Eyes/Mouth/Skin, Fatigue, Food Sensitivities, Hair Loss, Headaches/Migraines, Inflammation, Insomnia, Itching, Joint Pain/Stiffness/Swelling, Muscle Aches/Pains, Muscle Weakness, Nausea, Numbness/Tingling, Pain, Rashes, Swollen Glands, Shortness of Breath, Temperature Sensitivity, and Weight Gain/Loss

Treat leaky gut/Intestinal Permeability: Addressing gut health is an essential part of treating autoimmune disorders. By managing our diet, lifestyle, and supplements we can help restore the intestinal barrier. An elimination diet may be helpful here as well. Eat a nutrient dense diet with plenty of plant foods. Supplying the body and the immune system with the essential nutrients needed for optimal function is important.

Stress: Reducing stress can improve overall health. Stress is an underlying factor to all disease, including autoimmune disease. Daily, non-negotiable self-care is vital to Health and Wellness

Managing Hormones: Since autoimmune diseases affect more than twice as many women as men, there is likely a hormonal component to consider. Consider hormones such as cortisol, progesterone, estrogen, DHEA, testosterone, and insulin.

Environmental Exposures: You are exposed to tens of thousands of man-made chemicals daily. However, we have the ability to avoid exposure to many of these toxins. We can drink filtered water, filter our air, choose clean personal care products, clean with non-toxic substances, and by decreasing the use of plastics as much as possible.

Supplementation: There isn’t one supplement that is a magic cure for autoimmunity. However, by tailoring a treatment plan to each individual we can help support the immune system, and add nutrients the body is lacking. Nutrients and herbs are incredibly supportive for reducing inflammation and supporting immune balance. Work with your provider for a customized approach.

If you’ve been diagnosed with an autoimmune condition like Celiac disease, Hashimoto’s, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, etc. you know how frustrating it is to be told: “You’ll have this disease forever. There’s nothing we can do but try to manage your symptoms with these very expensive and powerful drugs.” Although prescription medications are still at the forefront in the battle against autoimmune disease, research continues to find other treatment that can help to improve the quality of life with those diagnosed with Autoimmune Disorders. These alternative treatments have less side effects than the traditional medications and offer symptom management by addressing the root cause. By individualizing care, removing any triggers, addressing diet, exercise, environmental factors, and gut health we can improve overall health.