An autoimmune disease is a disorder of the immune system where the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues and cells, causing inflammation and damage in various organs. The exact causes are not fully understood, but they usually involve genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Several common autoimmune diseases exist, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Symptoms of autoimmune diseases vary depending on the disease and the organ affected, but they can include fatigue, joint pain, rashes, and gastrointestinal upset. Management of autoimmune diseases often relies on immunosuppressive medications to reduce the abnormal immune response. Long-term medical follow-up is often necessary to manage the condition and improve the quality of life of patients with autoimmune diseases.
Autoimmune diseases are a group of complex immune system disorders where the body’s defense system, which is normally responsible for protecting the body against infections, begins to mistakenly attack its own tissues and cells. This autoimmune reaction causes inflammation and damage in various organs and tissues of the body. There are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases identified, each with specific characteristics and different targets. Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and type 1 diabetes.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common autoimmune diseases. It is characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness and joint deformity. RA can also affect other organs and systems in the body. Although there is no definitive cure, RA can be managed effectively with appropriate medications and treatments.
Most autoimmune diseases are not curable, but they can often be controlled with medical treatments. The main goal of treatments is to suppress the abnormal immune response, reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. In some cases, complete remission can be achieved, meaning the symptoms disappear temporarily. However, it is important to maintain long-term medical monitoring to manage the disease and avoid flare-ups.
Autoimmune diseases can start at any time in life, but they are often diagnosed in younger adults, usually between the ages of 20 and 50. However, it is not uncommon for them to appear at other times, including in children and older people. Triggering factors can include genetic predispositions, infections, hormones and environmental factors.
Rare autoimmune diseases include Goodpasture syndrome, a condition where the immune system attacks the lungs and kidneys; dermatomyositis, characterized by muscle and skin inflammation; and granulomatosis with polyangiitis, a vasculitis that affects small blood vessels. These diseases are less common than major autoimmune diseases, but they require specialized medical attention.
Symptoms of autoimmune diseases vary depending on the specific illness, but they can include fatigue, joint pain, rash, fever, gastrointestinal upset, and more. To make an accurate diagnosis, a doctor will perform a complete medical evaluation, including a medical history, physical exams, and blood tests. Tests specific to autoimmune diseases, such as autoantibodies, may also be necessary. Early diagnosis is essential for effective management of the disease.
Several autoimmune diseases can cause significant fatigue. For example, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known to cause extreme fatigue, as are rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and multiple sclerosis (MS). This fatigue can be debilitating and significantly affect patients’ quality of life. Fatigue associated with autoimmune diseases may be due to chronic inflammation, anemia, persistent pain, sleep disturbances, and other disease-related factors. It can vary in intensity from one individual to another and can sometimes be debilitating. Managing fatigue related to autoimmune diseases may require lifestyle adjustments, medications to control inflammation, and stress management strategies.
There is no specific autoimmune disease that consistently causes weight loss. However, some autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, can cause unintentional weight loss due to problems with nutrient absorption, chronic diarrhea, and abdominal pain. This weight loss can be concerning and requires medical management to stabilize the patient’s nutritional status. It is important to note that weight loss due to autoimmune disease is often undesirable and should be managed in conjunction with a healthcare professional to minimize potential complications.
Our joints are put to a severe test every day (walking, sport, standing for long periods, etc.). While normal wear and tear occurs, certain diseases can also be the source of joint pain. Let’s take a look at them together. What are the main joint diseases that cause pain? Pain in a single joint can … Read more
Peladia, also known as alopecia areata, is an autoimmune disease that manifests itself as localised or generalised hair loss. It affects both men and women, regardless of age, and can have a significant impact on quality of life and self-esteem. Although its exact causes remain partly mysterious, the condition is often linked to genetic, environmental … Read more
The exposome is an emerging concept in environmental health that encompasses all the environmental exposures to which an individual is exposed throughout his or her life. These exposures, whether chemical, physical or biological, have a significant impact on human health and can contribute to the development of chronic diseases. One of the key mechanisms by … Read more
The peptide BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic peptide derived from a protein present in the human stomach. It is known for its curative and regenerative properties in a variety of pathologies. What is BPC-157? BPC-157 is a peptide composed of 15 amino acids. It has been isolated from the protective body sequence of … Read more
Ozempic (semaglutide) is widely recognised for its efficacy in the management of type 2 diabetes and weight loss. However, recent discussions on GLP-1 peptides reveal a range of beneficial effects that go well beyond weight loss. This article explores these positive side effects based on information provided by experts such as Dr Tyna Moore. [Warning: … Read more
Intestinal permeability, often referred to as ‘leaky gut’, is an increasingly studied concept in the field of gastroenterology and integrative medicine. This condition refers to a state in which the intestinal barrier, normally impermeable to certain substances, becomes more permeable. The intestinal barrier includes surface mucus, an epithelial layer and immune defences. Its main function … Read more
Bell ‘s Palsy strikes suddenly, causing weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. This often temporary condition can affect anyone, at any age, leaving many patients uncertain about its cause and treatment. In this comprehensive article, we take a deep dive into Bell’s palsy: from its precise medical definition to the signs and symptoms that … Read more
Fecal transplantation, also known as faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), is a revolutionary medical procedure that involves transferring a medically treated faecal sample from a healthy person into the digestive tract of a sick patient. Although the idea may sound unappetising, the method offers significant therapeutic benefits thanks to the thousands of beneficial microorganisms it introduces … Read more
The DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is a dietary approach specifically designed to help to lower blood pressure and improve overall health. By focusing on nutrient-rich foods and reducing sodium intake, this diet has gained popularity as an effective way to manage hypertension and improve overall health. In this article, we’ll explore the … Read more
Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin disease that affects around 1% of the world’s population. A recent study published by the British Association of Dermatologists explores the potential impact of house dust mites on this condition. This article provides a full overview of the results of this ground-breaking study. What is Vitiligo? Vitiligo is an autoimmune … Read more
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disease. Today we look at a dietary approach that has attracted a lot of interest – the Paleo A.I.P or Autoimmune Protocol diet. Could it be the missing piece in the management of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis? What is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis? Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s … Read more
Joint pain can have a significant impact on our quality of life. Whether it’s osteoarthritis, arthritis, tendonitis or other forms of joint pain, it can make everyday tasks difficult. But have you ever thought that your pain could be linked to your gut microbiota? What is joint pain? Joint pain refers to discomfort, pain or … Read more
If you are concerned about your heart health, eating a minimum of two portions of fish per week may have a beneficial influence on the risk of heart disease. What is Omega 3? Oily fish contains unsaturated fats which are called fatty acids or Omega 3. In fact, these Omega 3 fatty acids may be … Read more
Psoriasis is a common chronic autoimmune disease. It is characterised by red patches covered with white scales. In fact, psoriasis causes a rapid accumulation of skin cells. This accelerated desquamation of the epidermis has different etiologies. What causes psoriasis? According to naturopathic principles, psoriasis develops when the brain and nervous system are overwhelmed and the … Read more
The AIP protocol is a holistic approach that addresses both diet and lifestyle . It was developed to help people with autoimmune diseases. AIP helps to reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, andimprove the intestinal balance among other things. The method consists mainly of an elimination diet followed by a reintroduction phase. It is this phase that … Read more
The AIP protocol is a dietary and lifestyle approach designed to reduce the intensity of symptoms caused by autoimmune diseases. Although studies on this protocol are still limited, many people who have followed this dietary method have seen a marked improvement in their general condition and a reduction in their symptoms. Autoimmune diseases An autoimmune … Read more
It is sometimes difficult to know what foods are “allowed” in the first phase of the IPA protocol. The first stage of the diet is to remove all foods that may be problematic for people with autoimmune diseases: Seeds, legumes, beans, dairy, eggs, oilseeds and solanaceae. And let’s not forget food additives. Today, we are … Read more
The AIP protocol is a short-term elimination diet. This method allows people with autoimmune diseases to determine whether they have food allergies or sensitivities. This so-called “Paleo AIP” diet helps to increase the nutritional quality of the plate on a daily basis. As a result, the intestinal flora, as well as the entire body, returns … Read more
Haemorrhagic rectocolitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (or IBD). IBD is a group of diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract. What is RH? This severe inflammation produces tiny sores called ulcers on the wall of the colon. In fact, the inflammation generally starts in the rectum and spreads upwards. However, it can affect the … Read more
Nervous system disorders and multiple sclerosis The multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune neurological disease of the central nervous system. A dysfunction of the immune system leads to lesions causing motor, sensory, cognitive, visual or even sphincter disturbances (most often urinary and intestinal). In the more or less long term, these disorders can however progress towards an irreversible … Read more