What is an autoimmune disorder?

An autoimmune disorder occurs when the body’s immune system is overactive, causing it to attack and damage healthy tissues by mistake. Symptoms vary depending on which disorder but commonly include fatigue, joint pain, skin issues, abdominal pain, and fever.

An anti-inflammatory diet has been shown to have beneficial effects for autoimmune diseases and controlling symptoms.



Foods to Consume to help:

• High-fiber whole grains such as rice, quinoa, corn, barley, amaranth, or buckwheat.

• Beans and legumes such as chickpeas, lentils, black beans

• Fruits

• Vegetables

• Tea that does not contain added sugar such as green, black, or white tea.

• Herbs and spices such as turmeric and ginger

• Healthy fats specifically foods high in omega 3’s. These foods include fish, avocados, olive oil, nut butters, nuts, and seeds.

Foods to Limit:

• Refined carbohydrates contain little vitamins and minerals, providing little benefit for us. Examples include white breads and pasta, cookies, donuts.

• Fried foods can have inflammatory effects.

• Processed high fat meats contain lots of saturated fat that can contribute to inflammation in the body. Food examples include ham, salami, hot dogs, sausage, and bacon.

• Alcohol consumption disrupts the gut barrier, which can cause inflammation and flare ups.

• Sweetened beverages such as soda and juice or tea with added sugars.

Lifestyle Changes to Incorporate:

• Limit processed food and inflammatory foods

• Manage your stress and calm your nervous system

• Get enough sleep to help with healing

• Exercise more - but don’t push yourself too hard to trigger a flare up.

Supplements that May Help:

• Vitamin D: Plays a role in metabolic and immune function and can help reduce inflammation.

• Glutathione: Helps support immune function by helping bind free radicals and toxins to get detoxed from the body.

• Probiotics: Can help to reduce inflammation and aid in restoring the gut barrier.

• Curcurmin: Plays a big role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response and a healthy immune system.

• Resveratrol: Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Has been shown to reduce progression of certain diseases.

Remember to check with your doctor and follow up with a registered dietitian to further help you feel the best if you're struggling with an autoimmune disorder.