Autoimmune Issues

The immune system is your body’s defense network, protecting you from infections, harmful substances, allergens, toxins, and abnormal cells. It’s a complex system of organs, cells, and proteins that work together to keep you healthy.  Autoimmunity occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, creating inflammation and disrupting normal body function. Supporting immune balance helps reduce this misdirected activity and promotes overall wellness.

The immune system works closely with the lymphatic system to defend your body. Lymph nodes and the spleen produce cells that help the body respond to foreign invaders by creating antibodies.  A key feature of the immune system is its ability to recognize what is part of your body and what is foreign. Some immunity is natural, meaning you are born with protection against certain conditions. Acquired immunity develops when your body encounters an illness, responds by producing antibodies, and recovers, building lasting defense.

Food choices, infections, hormone imbalances, toxins, stress, and gut health are all foundational factors in autoimmunity. These factors can contribute to the development of autoimmune conditions—and addressing them can also be part of the solution.  One key factor is leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability. This allows food particles and bacteria to cross the intestinal wall into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and autoimmune reactions.

Additionally, cellular regulation within the immune system can sometimes function improperly, leading to an overactive immune response that further drives autoimmunity.

Some common autoimmune issues include:

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• Digestive system: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease

• Joints and connective tissue: Arthritis

• Thyroid: Hypothyroidism or Hyperthyroidism

• Skin: Psoriasis