Autoimmune disease: Naturopathic Support

What is autoimmune disease?

An autoimmune disease is defined as a condition in which the immune system acts as though it's own healthy cells are foreign. In other words, the immune system is acts on itself. Although autoimmune conditions may have genetic tendency, they may also be acquired over one’s lifetime through epigenetic factors. An endless number of autoimmune conditions have been identified; some more common than others and some with medical treatment options and some still undergoing research in the medical field.

Basically, in autoimmune disease, the immune system is set into 'over-drive' and cells that were once considered own/self, are attacked by the body’s own immune activities. One autoimmune disease in a given organ or tissue, may potnetially change the way in which that organ functions (e.g. autoimmune thyroid - Hashimoto's or Graves').

What causes autoimmune disease?

The exact cause of autoimmune conditions is unknown, but according to research there are potential factors that may pre-dispose an indivdual to an autoimmune condition. These might include: genetics, compromised immune system (viral, fungal and bacterial infections), recreational drugs, environmental toxins, chemicals, foods, INFLAMMATION (of course) etc..

Autoimmune conditions are are known to potnetially “flare up” with certain triggers and then are followed by a period of quiescence or calm. Medications and medical therapies may be supportive to help address symptomatic concern. Naturopathic medicine may support autoimmune conditoins through lifestyle changes and potentially supplementation if indicated and if safe alongside medications. Naturopathic doctors are trained to check interactions with medications.

Which ograns or processes might autoimmune disease impact?

Here are some of the common conditions and their locations in the body:

• Type 1 Diabetes – pancreatic cells

• Celiac Disease – intestinal lining in the small intestine

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – joint inflammation

• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – multiple sites: brain, kidneys, joints, skin and more

• Scleroderma – connective tissue in the organs, skin and muscle tissues

• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (Hypothyroid) – thyroid gland

• Grave’s Disease (Hyperthyroid) – thyroid gland

• Sjorgren Syndrome – kidneys, lungs, lacrimal ducts

What does autoimmune disease present as?

The symptoms can be dependent on what organs and locations in the body are affected and potential triggers.. Inflammation plays a critical role as it is modulated by the immune system.

How is autoimmune disease diagnosed?

Our body’s immune system produce antibodies specific to certain organs & autoimmune conditions. Here are SOME examples of markers for autoimmune disease (this is not a comprehensive list):

• Rheumatoid Factor (RF) - Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) - general for many autoimmune diseases

• Tissue transglutaminase Antibody, IgA endomysial antibody, Anti-gliadin antibody, and more - Celiac disease (biopsy is most definitive)

• Anti – TPO thyroid peroxidase - autoimmune thyroid

• Anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) - SLE

• Etc.

Markers for inflammation that may be tested:

• C-reactive Protein (CRP)

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)

• And more specific markers that can track progression, depending on the type of autoimmune disease

  
  

How might Naturopathic medicine benefit autoimmune disease?

Treatments for autoimmune disease can vary depending on the condition. However, there are a few generalized principles that may support autoimmune disease:

• Aiming to reduce inflammation/triggers

• Supplementation

• Supporting joint, bone, nerve and organ inflammation through a variety of mechanisms

• Hormone support

• Gastrointestinal microbiome support (~70% of our immune system is located in our gut)

• Dietary modifications

• Lifestyle changes

• Additional testing if supportive & indicated

• Stress Management

• and more.

Naturopathic modalities might be recommended adjunctively with conventional medical treatments, depending on the type of autoimmune condition. Your naturopathic doctor trained in pharmacology and autoimmune disease support will be able to provide education & insight on which naturopathic modalities may or may not be safe to complete with your prescribed medications.

Dr. Nadia Mawji, ND

Calgary Naturopathic Doctor

**Any information provided in these blog posts are intended for information purposes only and not to be considered naturopathic medical advice. See your naturopathic doctor for individualized support & guidance.