When you have an autoimmune condition it can feel like you’re never going to get better.
You’ve been told that if you eat well, move your body, manage your stress and take handfuls of supplements you should see your symptoms improve.
But, for many, that’s not enough.
You still feel bad and your autoimmune condition is still progressing. You often wonder if all the effort is really worth it. You’re not alone. Far too many people with autoimmune conditions aren’t getting better and it’s not because they aren’t trying.
Your health is a puzzle and there are many pieces. It’s not enough to treat the symptoms or address only a few parts of the puzzle.
The key to turning your health around lies in addressing the triggers and root causes of autoimmune conditions. Only then is it possible to heal your body and reverse the symptoms and progression of your autoimmune condition.
With the guidance of your healthcare providers, search for the causes of inflammation in your body and what has triggered your immune system to develop autoimmunity.
While that might seem like an overwhelming task, it’s actually easier than you think.
There are several common causes of autoimmune conditions. A healthcare provider trained in functional medicine will be able to help you determine which of these are contributing to your symptoms (and they’ll know how to fix them).
The result? You’ll slow down the autoimmune process and you’ll heal your body. You’ll feel better and get back to enjoying your life.
Here are the 5 most common causes of autoimmune conditions. It’s not uncommon that several of these may be contributing to the way you feel.
A Leaky Gut:
Chances are if you have an autoimmune condition you have a leaky gut. This happens when the lining of your digestive tract becomes damaged. “Holes” are created in your intestines that shouldn’t be there and your intestine loses its ability to function properly. This is problematic since 80% of your immune system is found in your gut.
Even if you don’t have digestive symptoms---like diarrhea, constipation, bloating or abdominal pain---you still could have a leaky gut. Healing your gut is one of the first things to address when you have autoimmune conditions.
Exposure to Toxins:
Toxins are substances that cause a harmful reaction in your body including things like heavy metals, mycotoxins (toxins from mold exposure), and chemicals in your environment. Some of the greatest exposures come from the foods you eat, the water you drink, the air you breathe and the personal-care products you use.
You can test your body for heavy metals, mold exposure and chemical exposures. It’s also important to minimize your exposure to toxins and increase your body’s ability to detoxify.
Chronic Infections:
Chronic infections such as parasites, bacteria, viruses (such as Epstein Barr and the herpes virus) and Lyme are commonly found in connection with autoimmunity. They can trigger your autoimmune condition in the first place or worsen your symptoms by triggering flares.
Many of these infections can remain dormant in your body for years and can resurface during times of stress. There are several tests your doctor can order to look for these hidden infections and then treat them as necessary.
Food Sensitivities:
Food is one of the most powerful substances you put in your body. It can trigger inflammation and disease processes in your body. On the other hand, it’s one of the most powerful medicines that can create life-long health in your body.
Gluten, dairy, and sugar are the foods most commonly associated with autoimmunity. In most people, removing these foods is an important part of the healing process. You can also test for other food sensitivities.
Chronic Stress:
Chronic physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional stress is universal in our society. Chronic stress triggers inflammation in your body, puts strain on your immune system, and lowers your body’s ability to heal. It can also make you more susceptible to a leaky gut and chronic infections. Too much stress can also lead to adrenal fatigue which is commonly associated with autoimmune conditions.
It’s not easy but it’s important to reduce stress in your life. Finding time every day for restful relaxation, deep breathing, gratitude, mindfulness and movement will make a big difference when it comes to healing your body from autoimmune conditions. Your healthcare providers can also test for adrenal fatigue.
Some Parting Thoughts.
When you have an autoimmune condition and just want to get back to feeling your best, addressing your root causes will get you there quickly.
In order to find the support you need, it’s best to work with a functional medicine trained doctor who will be able to ask the right questions, order the right tests, and successfully treat your root causes.
Then, you’ll be able to slow the progression of your autoimmunity, reverse your symptoms and heal your body---so you can finally enjoy your life again.
You’re invited to start the journey now. Join my free email series, 10 Days to Better Health: What You Need to Know About Autoimmune Conditions,
Originally published by Dr. Deborah Anderson on www.DrDeborah.com Find Dr. Deborah on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest