What is autoimmune disease?
An autoimmune disease develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, tissues or organs. Normally, the immune system protects the body from things that could make us ill, such as viruses and bacteria. With an autoimmune disease, this protective response mistakenly targets part of the body instead.
In this video, VJ Hamilton, BSc (Immunology), DipION, mBANT discusses the autoimmune paleo (AIP) diet and what to consider before making changes to your diet.
How are autoimmune diseases diagnosed?
Diagnosing an autoimmune disease isn't always straightforward because symptoms can overlap with many other conditions. A doctor will consider your symptoms and medical history and may arrange blood tests or other investigations depending on the condition they suspect. Blood tests can look for certain antibodies or signs of inflammation, but the tests needed will vary from person to person.
What causes autoimmune disease?
The causes of autoimmune diseases are complex and vary between conditions. Genetics and environmental factors may both play a role, but in many cases the exact cause isn't fully understood.
What are the symptoms of autoimmune disease?
Symptoms of autoimmune disease vary depending on the condition and the part of the body affected. Symptoms may include ongoing fatigue, joint or muscle pain, digestive problems, skin changes, and unexplained weight changes.
However, these symptoms can have many different causes and do not necessarily mean you have an autoimmune disease.
If you have persistent or unexplained symptoms that you’re concerned about, speak to your GP. They can assess your symptoms and arrange further tests or refer you to a specialist if needed.
Common autoimmune diseases
Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Let’s look at these common autoimmune diseases in more detail.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland. The immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, which can reduce its ability to produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
Symptoms can include fatigue, feeling cold, weight gain, difficulty concentrating and low mood, although they vary from person to person. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is usually managed with medical treatment to replace the thyroid hormones the body is not producing. If you think you may have a thyroid problem, speak to your GP.
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering around nerves, known as myelin. This damage can disrupt messages travelling between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a range of symptoms.
There are three main types of MS: relapsing remitting MS, secondary progressive MS and primary progressive MS. Symptoms and how the condition progresses can vary considerably from person to person.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that mainly affects the joints. The immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, pain, swelling and stiffness. Symptoms can vary and may come and go, with periods when they become more severe.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), often called lupus, is an autoimmune condition that can affect different parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys and other organs.
Symptoms vary from person to person and can include extreme tiredness, joint and muscle pain, and skin rashes. Symptoms may become worse for a period of time, known as a flare-up, before improving again.
There is currently no cure for SLE, but treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of organ damage.
How can nutrition help with autoimmune disease?
There isn't one specific diet that has been shown to treat all autoimmune diseases, and nutritional needs will vary depending on the condition and the individual. However, eating a balanced, varied diet can support your overall health and may help with some symptoms.
A nutrition professional can help you understand how your diet may be affecting your health and suggest changes tailored to your individual needs.
Any dietary changes should complement, rather than replace, the medical treatment or advice you receive for your condition.
Consider your diet
A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, wholegrains, beans and pulses, nuts and seeds, and sources of healthy fats can help support your overall health. A Mediterranean-style diet is one example of this way of eating.
Consider your individual needs
Some autoimmune conditions can affect what you need to eat. For example, people with coeliac disease need to follow a strict gluten-free diet. Other conditions, symptoms or medications may also affect your nutritional needs.
Restrictive diets aren't suitable for everyone and can make it harder to get the nutrients you need. If you're considering removing foods or food groups from your diet, speak to an appropriately qualified professional who can advise you based on your individual circumstances.
Manage stress
Living with a long-term health condition can affect your emotional wellbeing as well as your physical health. Finding manageable ways to look after yourself may help you cope with stress. This could include prioritising sleep, spending time doing things you enjoy and finding ways to manage stress that work for you.
What helps will be different for everyone, so try to focus on realistic changes that fit around your health, needs and lifestyle.
Consult a professional
If you have an autoimmune disease, your nutritional needs may be affected by your condition, symptoms, medication and other individual factors. There is no single approach that will be right for everyone.
A nutrition professional can look at your current diet and individual needs and help you make realistic, balanced changes to support your overall health. They can also work alongside the medical care you receive from your GP or specialist.
