Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases affect a significant portion of the U.S. population, with estimates ranging from 23 to 50 million individuals. Notably, these conditions rank among the top 10 leading causes of death for female children and women under the age of 64. (Source: American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association)

What is Autoimmune Disease?

An autoimmune disease is a chronic condition where the immune system mistakenly produces antibodies that attack healthy tissues, such as the thyroid, skin, or joints. Essentially, the immune system misidentifies parts of the body or its processes as harmful and begins attacking itself.

There are over 100 identified autoimmune disorders, with some of the most common including:

  • Type 1 Diabetes

  • Psoriasis/Psoriatic Arthritis

  • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

  • Lupus

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis)

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Multiple Sclerosis

  • Celiac Disease

  • Addison’s Disease

  • Grave’s Disease

What Causes Autoimmune Disease?

The development of autoimmune diseases isn’t random, nor is it solely determined by genetics or lifestyle factors. Instead, it stems from a combination of underlying causes that vary from person to person. The three primary root causes include:

  • Genetics

  • Environmental factors

  • Intestinal hyperpermeability (commonly known as gut health)

Our autoimmune specialists, serving Minnesota, are dedicated to identifying the root causes of your condition to help you effectively manage and overcome your symptoms.

Is Autoimmune Disease Reversible?

Autoimmune diseases cannot be fully reversed, but they can be managed to achieve remission. Successful remission depends on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the extent of damage already done, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment. A key factor is the patient’s commitment to making and maintaining the necessary lifestyle and health changes.

Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and enhance overall quality of life. This can look different for everyone and may include regaining energy to enjoy daily activities, losing weight, improving sleep, clearing skin, overcoming brain fog, or even achieving pregnancy.

While it’s not possible to fully “reverse” an autoimmune disease, you can still reclaim your vitality and feel like yourself again.

Treatment for Autoimmune Disease

The first step in treating autoimmune disease is obtaining an accurate diagnosis through lab tests and other diagnostic tools. Once diagnosed, a personalized treatment plan can be developed to address your unique needs. This plan will vary based on your individual health history, environmental triggers, gut health, autoimmune symptoms, co-infections, food sensitivities, personal goals, timeline, and more.

That said, some common approaches to managing autoimmune diseases include:

  • Removing gluten and other trigger foods

  • Following a nutrient-dense diet

  • Reducing or eliminating refined carbs, refined sugar, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol

  • Managing stress effectively

  • Prioritizing adequate sleep

  • Reducing exposure to heavy metals

  • Minimizing chemicals in your environment

  • Engaging in daily physical activity

  • Consulting your doctor about supplements that support a healthy inflammatory response

Functional Medicine Approach to Autoimmunity

Conventional treatments for autoimmune diseases often rely on immunosuppressants, which can lead to significant long-term side effects. In contrast, a functional medicine approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of your condition to help bring your symptoms into remission. Contact our autoimmune specialists serving Minnesota to take the first step toward reclaiming your health!