What Is an Autoimmune Disease?
Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Common examples include Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis (MS), and Crohn’s disease. Symptoms vary but often include fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, skin issues, and digestive problems.
The Role of Inflammation in Autoimmunity
Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of autoimmune diseases. It not only contributes to symptoms but also drives disease progression. While medication may be necessary, addressing inflammation through diet can reduce flares and support the body’s healing processes.
Foods That Can Worsen Inflammation
Some foods may trigger or exacerbate inflammation in people with autoimmune conditions. Common culprits include:
- Processed and packaged foods
- Refined sugars
- Gluten
- Dairy, for some individuals: often high-lactose dairy products
- Industrial seed oils (like soybean or corn oil).
Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Focus On
A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet can help calm the immune system. With an emphasis on including leafy greens and filling your plate with colorful vegetables, berries and other antioxidant-rich fruits, wild-caught fatty fish, like salmon and sardines, olive oil and avocado, nuts and seeds, especially flax and chia, bone broth, and fermented foods for gut health.
The Gut-Autoimmune Connection
About 70% of your immune system lives in your gut. Poor gut health, including dysbiosis or increased intestinal permeability, known as “leaky gut”, can drive inflammation and trigger autoimmune flares. Supporting the gut with fiber, fermented foods, and targeted probiotics can be a game-changer.
Balancing Blood Sugar & Stress to Support Immunity
Blood sugar spikes can drive inflammation. So can chronic stress, which elevates cortisol and suppresses immune regulation. Balanced meals, consistent eating, movement, and mindfulness practices all help create an internal environment where healing is possible.
The Importance of Personalized Nutrition
There is no one-size-fits-all autoimmune diet. While protocols like AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) can be helpful short-term, they often need to be adjusted based on individual tolerances and lab markers. A dietitian can help ensure you’re reducing inflammation without becoming overly restrictive.
When to Consider Functional Lab Testing
Advanced lab work can identify food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, and gut imbalances. Tests may include: comprehensive stool testing, micronutrient panels, food sensitivity testing, hormonal and thyroid panels. These insights help guide targeted nutrition strategies and help us recommend the best supplementation, if needed.
How One Nutrition Group Supports Autoimmune Clients
We take a whole-body, root-cause approach to autoimmune care, focusing on calming inflammation, supporting digestion, and rebuilding resilience. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or navigating years of flares, we work with you to build a sustainable nutrition plan that fits your life.
Final Thoughts
Autoimmune diseases can feel isolating, but there are tools to help you take back control. Nutrition won’t cure autoimmunity, but it can dramatically improve how you feel day to day. You deserve care that treats your whole body and supports long-term healing.