Autoimmune diseases affect over 1 million Australians and are a leading cause of death in women under the age of 65. With over 80 types, including Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Graves Disease, Psoriasis, Lupus, and more, it’s crucial to understand the symptoms and explore effective naturopathic treatments. Women make up over 75% of those affected, and about 25% of individuals with one autoimmune condition develop additional autoimmune diseases.
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases occur when systemic inflammation triggers an abnormal immune response, causing the body to attack its own tissues. This can happen when the body mistakes allergens, infections, toxins, or certain foods for harmful invaders. Genetics also play a significant role; having a close relative with an autoimmune disease increases your risk.
Common Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases in Women
- Joint or muscle pain
- Recurrent rashes or hives
- Fatigue
- Poor focus and concentration
- Weight gain or cold intolerance
- Dry eyes, skin, or mouth
- Difficulty conceiving or multiple miscarriages
- Hair loss
- Digestive upset
Naturopathic Approaches to Treat Autoimmune Diseases
Naturopathic treatment focuses on addressing the root causes of autoimmune diseases through scientifically-backed methods. The core principles include optimising the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio to reduce systemic inflammation, enhancing cellular fluidity and signalling, and improving gut health to decrease gastrointestinal permeability.
Key Naturopathic Strategies
- Optimise Omega-6 to Omega-3 Ratio:
- Reducing omega-6 intake while increasing omega-3 consumption can decrease systemic inflammation. This is achieved by incorporating more fish oils, flaxseeds, and other sources of omega-3s into the diet. We highly suggest a Zinzino Balance Test to determine your Omega 6:3 ratio.
Learn more about the importance of Omega 6:3 Balance HERE
- Reducing omega-6 intake while increasing omega-3 consumption can decrease systemic inflammation. This is achieved by incorporating more fish oils, flaxseeds, and other sources of omega-3s into the diet. We highly suggest a Zinzino Balance Test to determine your Omega 6:3 ratio.
- Enhance Gut Health:
- Improving the microbiome and gut health helps stabilise gastrointestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut.” This involves dietary adjustments, probiotics, and prebiotics to support a healthy gut flora.
- Improving the microbiome and gut health helps stabilise gastrointestinal permeability, often referred to as “leaky gut.” This involves dietary adjustments, probiotics, and prebiotics to support a healthy gut flora.
- Retame the Immune System:
- Once inflammation is under control, the next step is to modulate the immune response. This can involve specific supplements, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques to support immune system balance.
- Regular Monitoring and Adjustments:
- Regularly measuring antibody blood markers helps assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make necessary adjustments. Comprehensive stool tests can evaluate gut health and identify any imbalances.
Conclusion:
Understanding the symptoms and exploring naturopathic treatments for autoimmune diseases in women is essential for managing these conditions effectively. By addressing the root causes and making sustainable lifestyle changes, women can achieve better health outcomes and improve their quality of life.
The Autoimmune Management Program is a 26 week program designed specifically to help you start the healing process. To learn more about this program, please book a Health Strategy Call to discuss your personal circumstances and how this program can fit into your life and budget.
For more information on managing autoimmune diseases and personalised naturopathic treatment plans, contact us at support@thriveher.vip