Autoimmune Disease

The most crucial information you will ever read on healing your autoimmune disease.

Introduction:

Before we delve into what I consider fundamental for your comprehension of autoimmune conditions, I wish to convey a message of hope. If you have found your way to this article, you will learn that there is a vast body of medical research available on the successful treatment of autoimmune diseases and that these diseases ARE reversible and do not have to be a life sentence of pain, misery and lost hope that we may have incorrectly been led to believe. I genuinely believe that in a decade, we will look back with regret at how modern medicine so often failed to respect how important “the basics” are when it comes to living with, and healing from autoimmune disease (AID). My hope is that education on nutrition, lifestyle measures including sleep, exercise and self care will soon become the primary focus of treatment when it comes to AID and diseases of chronic inflammation.

We, the silent sufferers of chronic health challenges and AID, often find ourselves hoping that our pain will miraculously dissipate, or our energy levels will "reboot”. However, in my clinical practice, I encounter patients as young as 21 years old battling chronic inflammation and autoimmune conditions. It is my heartfelt conviction that this invaluable information needs to reach everyone so that whatever age you are and whatever stage in your health journey you can feel empowered in knowing that there are things you can do for yourself that can positively impact your health and support you in feeling and functioning better. Together, we can embark on a journey to transform our health because, make no mistake, transformation is possible! With unwavering focus, determination, and dedication, we possess the power to heal ourselves and reclaim our wellbeing.

What Are Autoimmune Diseases?

Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells. Numerous research studies have illustrated the profound connection between the gut microbiome and autoimmune diseases, suggesting that an imbalance in gut bacteria may significantly contribute to the development of AIDs. Throughout this article, I'll share some of these research findings, referring to sources such as the National Library of Medicine and the National Centre for Biotechnology Information.

"Microorganisms have the ability to influence different physiological aspects such as the immune system, metabolism, and behaviour."

The Importance of Certain Bacteria in the Gut - What Are Firmicutes Bacteria and Why Are They Important?

Section Summary:

• What is a gut microbiome

• Lupus and the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes bacteria

• Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes bacteria

• Breakdown of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes bacteria

• Foods to nourish Firmicutes in the gut

The gut microbiome, is made up of a diverse community of microorganisms residing in our gastrointestinal tract and it holds a paramount role in maintaining overall health. Its acquisition begins at birth, with infants inheriting vital microorganisms during their passage through the birth canal and via breastfeeding, thereby establishing a foundational environment for a healthy gut and robust immune system. As time progresses, diet and environmental exposures further shape the composition of this complex community. An example of one such environmental impact to the microbiome is the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. While instrumental in treating infections, use can inadvertently disrupt the gut microbiome by affecting both harmful and beneficial bacteria. Similarly, diets high in processed foods and low in fiber can lead to an imbalance, or dysbiosis, reducing the diversity of beneficial bacteria and potentially triggering health issues, including inflammatory conditions and autoimmune diseases. Acknowledging the profound influence of our lifestyle choices on the gut microbiome underscores the importance of maintaining a diet rich in fiber and only using antibiotics when absolutey essential.

In recent years, several studies have highlighted the role of the microbiome in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Notably, in systemic lupus erythematosus, an alteration of the intestinal flora (lower Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio) has been described. Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes are two major phyla of bacteria in the human gut.

To illustrate the significance of these two bacteria in the gut and their connection to the development of systemic lupus:

Firmicutes bacteria are known for their ability to break down complex carbohydrates and fiber, facilitating the extraction of energy from these sources, thus providing vitality. While some studies suggest that a higher Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio may be associated with obesity, this remains a topic of ongoing research and debate.

On the other hand, Bacteroidetes bacteria are renowned for breaking down complex carbohydrates, especially dietary fiber. They help ferment fiber, yielding short-chain fatty acids, which offer diverse health benefits. Some studies suggest that a higher proportion of Bacteroidetes in the gut may reduce the risk of inflammation and certain diseases. Bacteroidetes are also vital for energy production within gut cells, stimulate the production of glutathione, an essential natural antioxidant, control intestinal inflammation, support a robust gut lining, and even aid in preventing cancer.

Foods to nourish Firmicutes in the gut (always choose organic where possible):

• Apples

• Garlic

• Chicory root

• Flaxseed

• Oats

• Onions

• Jerusalem artichokes

Furthermore, Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes can be naturally found in fermented food products. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are ideal. Studies demonstrate that adhering to a Mediterranean diet is linked to a greater abundance of Firmicutes.

The Influence of Probiotics on the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes Ratio in the Treatment of Obesity and Inflammatory Bowel Disease:

[Link to the study: Probiotics Study]

Influence of Diet on the Gut Microbiome and Implications for Human Health:

[Link to the study: Diet and Gut Microbiome Study]

The Microbiota-Immune Axis:

How Do Gut Bacteria Influence Immune Health? The Gut Microbiome and Autoimmunity. Discover how gut bacteria interface with immune cells, including how this may impact your risk of long-COVID and inflammatory disease.

Section Summary:

• The immune system

• Gut microbiome

• The microbiome and chronic inflammation - chronic inflammation is associated with numerous health conditions: Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome.

• The microbiome, immunity, and long-COVID

• Exercise, Diet, and Stress as Modulators of the Gut Microbiota

• Rheumatoid arthritis: RA

Our immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and tissues that collaborate to combat invaders and repair damage. The gut microbiome is intricately linked with the immune system, comprising trillions of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract. When in balance, these microbes maintain gut health, aid digestion, and modulate immune responses. However, chronic inflammation, a state where the body continues to activate an immune response despite no injury or antigens to fight, is associated with numerous diseases, including heart disease, stroke, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease. Low diversity and imbalance in gut flora are also associated with inflammatory diseases, including Crohn's and ulcerative colitis.

In a study conducted at the University of Groningen, a team of gastroenterologists analysed the microbiome of 1,425 people, categorised into four cohorts: those with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and the general population. The results revealed that dietary patterns rich in legumes, bread, fish, and nuts were associated with a lower abundance of opportunistic bacteria, fewer endotoxins, and fewer inflammatory markers in stool samples taken.

Study:

[Link to the study: Microbiome Study]

Numerous factors can disrupt the composition of your gut flora and reduce its diversity.

Exercise, Diet, and Stress as Modulators of Gut Microbiota: Implications for Neurodegenerative Diseases:

The intricate interplay between our lifestyle and gut health extends to the realm of neurodegenerative diseases. Exercise, diet, and stress are powerful modulators of the gut microbiota, and their influence may have profound implications for conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Regular physical activity has been linked to a more diverse and beneficial gut microbial composition, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Meanwhile, dietary choices rich in plant-based foods and prebiotics can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that contribute to brain health. On the flip side, chronic stress can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, leading to systemic inflammation, which is increasingly recognised as a contributor to neurodegenerative conditions. Recognising the bidirectional relationship between gut health and neurodegenerative diseases underscores the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, addressing not only neurological but also gastrointestinal health to potentially mitigate these disorders.

[Link to the study: Modulators of Gut Microbiota Study]

Unhealthy gut microbiomes have been proposed as important factors in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Likewise, other autoimmune diseases, such as systemic sclerosis, Sjögren's syndrome, and anti-phospholipid syndrome, also share modifications in the microbiome of the intestinal tract and oral flora.

[Link to the study: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Microbiome Study]

Rheumatoid arthritis: RA

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. Microbial infection is considered a crucial inducer of RA. Alterations in the composition of intestinal bacteria in individuals with preclinical and established RA suggest a vital role of the gut microbiota in immune dysfunction characteristic of RA.

It was in turn reported that in early RA patients the fecal microbiota contained significantly less Bifidobacteria, B. fragilis, and Eubacterium rectale than in patients with fibromyalgia.

“Probiotics, defined as “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”, can reduce the abundance of pathogenic bacteria by competing for nutrition and colonisation sites. At the same time, probiotics can alleviate RA symptoms by producing antibiotics and strengthening the intestinal barrier, with beneficial modulation of the immune function.

Gut microbiota and rheumatoid arthritis: From pathogenesis to novel therapeutic opportunities

[Link to the study: Gut microbiota biomarkers for diagnosing RA ]

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the gut microbiome stands as a pivotal player in the delicate orchestration of our overall health. Its impact reaches far beyond digestion, extending to the intricate web of autoimmune diseases, and the pathogenesis of various conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. We've seen that the choices we make in our daily lives, from the foods we consume to the stress we manage, have a profound impact on the composition and balance of our gut microbiota.

By understanding this intricate relationship, we gain the power to shape our health outcomes. Through maintaining a diet rich in fiber, whole foods, and probiotics, we can nurture a diverse and beneficial microbial community. Regular exercise further enhances this diversity, offering potential protection against autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Simultaneously, managing stress is vital, for a harmonious gut and can promote not only digestive well-being but also safeguard against systemic inflammation that could contribute to chronic conditions.

This journey to optimal health requires a holistic approach, considering both our neurological and gastrointestinal well-being. By honoring the connection between our gut and the onset of various health conditions, we can proactively take charge of our health and strive for a brighter, more balanced future. With each mindful choice, we become active participants in our well-being, fostering a harmonious relationship with the remarkable ecosystem within us, our gut microbiome.

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