Autoimmune conditions, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues, have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. While the exact causes of autoimmune disorders are multifactorial, researchers have started to uncover a potential connection between the gut biome and these conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the intriguing relationship between the gut biome and autoimmune conditions, shedding light on how maintaining a healthy gut can positively impact these disorders.
The Gut Biome and Autoimmunity:
Gut Microbiota Composition: The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that make up the gut microbiota. Studies have found that individuals with autoimmune conditions often exhibit an altered composition of gut bacteria compared to those without these disorders. These imbalances can lead to dysregulation of the immune system and trigger autoimmune responses. Your Gut Biome can change in a week with very few changes. They are adaptable and built to survive. When overloaded with foreign particles, viruses, parasites, they become over burdened and discombobulated.
Leaky Gut and Molecular Mimicry: Intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as "leaky gut," can play a role in the development of autoimmune conditions. When the gut barrier becomes compromised, undigested food particles and toxins can enter the bloodstream, initiating an immune response. This is usually the case for many outward symptoms on the skin, mood, unexplained symptoms, thyroid autoimmune, and many more. In some cases, these foreign substances resemble molecules found in our own tissues, leading to molecular mimicry and the immune system mistakenly attacking self. This is unfortunate, because a lot of times something you previously enjoyed, now gives you pain or strange symptoms that you want to stop immediately.
Immune System Modulation: The gut microbiota plays a vital role in training and modulating the immune system. It helps educate immune cells, ensuring they respond appropriately to pathogens while maintaining tolerance to self. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut bacteria, can disrupt this immune regulation and contribute to the development or progression of autoimmune conditions. The upset of the ecosystem in your intestines can allow bad bacteria to take over that are not beneficial to you, but actually harm you and further damage your intestinal lining.
2. Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs): Certain beneficial bacteria in the gut produce SCFAs through the fermentation of dietary fiber. SCFAs have anti-inflammatory properties and help maintain a healthy gut environment. Inadequate production of SCFAs may contribute to chronic inflammation, which can fuel autoimmune responses.
If ANYTHING you are eating is making you flare or you immediately feel an alter in mood, changes in digestion, or have slowly been developing conditions that doctors are diagnosing as autoimmune, this could mean particles are escaping your intestines and traveling in your blood stream. This is one dis regulation in your body that can cause absolute havoc in your body that seems like an endless cycle.
How Do We Fix Leaky Gut?
Depending on the severity of intestinal permeability, some actions you could take at home.
Diet and Fiber Intake: A diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and diverse plant-based sources promotes a healthy gut biome. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods in your meals to provide nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria. If negatively responding to whole foods, your intestinal walls need to be healed before introducing large amounts of fiber.
Probiotics and Prebiotics: Consider incorporating probiotics (live beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (food for beneficial bacteria) into your routine. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. Prebiotics are present in foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas. Adding too
Stress Management: Chronic stress can disrupt the gut microbiome and exacerbate autoimmune conditions. Prioritize stress management techniques such as exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and engaging in activities you enjoy. Handling stress in way that is healthy is a number one for controlling autoimmune flare ups.
Minimize Gut Disruptors: Certain medications, such as antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can negatively affect the gut microbiota. Whenever possible, use these medications judiciously and under medical supervision. Additionally, reduce or avoid excessive alcohol consumption and processed foods high in sugars and additives. Everything in moderation! You can have too much a good thing! Once your intestines are healing and sealed, you can slowly start to enjoy those guilty pleasures every once in awhile. Moderation is key and listening to your body to get there makes it all the easier.
If you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune condition or suspect you may be at risk, collaborate with healthcare professionals knowledgeable in autoimmune disorders and gut health. They can provide personalized advice, recommend appropriate tests, and guide you on treatment options.
While further research is necessary to fully comprehend the complex interplay between the gut biome and autoimmune conditions, evidence suggests that nurturing a healthy gut can potentially have a positive impact on these disorders. By adopting a gut-friendly lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, stress management, and mindful choices, you can optimize your gut health and support overall well-being.
Questions about gut biome and your autoimmune condition? Book a discovery call and we can chat.
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