Living with an autoimmune disease can be challenging, but there are practical solutions that can support your health and reduce symptoms. One of the most effective ways is through a proper diet.
Choose Anti-inflammatory Foods
Food plays a crucial role in managing autoimmune conditions. By incorporating plenty of anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, you can experience significant improvements. Here are some to include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids from fish and fish oil supplements
- 100% grass-fed/pasture-raised meat
- Healthy fats
- An abundance of vegetables
- Limited consumption of fruit (if blood glucose levels are well-managed)
On the other hand, there are certain foods you may want to avoid, such as:
- Gluten and dairy (always)
- Eggs
- Grains
- Nuts (and their oils)
- Seeds (and their oils and spices)
- Legumes
- Nightshades (and their spices)
- Processed foods, including processed vegetable oils like canola
- Added sugars, sugar alcohols, and artificial sugars
- Alcohol
- And a few other miscellaneous items
It’s important to note that the elimination of these foods may or may not be long-term. Depending on how well your condition is controlled without medication, you may find that your body tolerates some of these foods to a certain extent.
Consider Eliminating Top Offenders
“If your condition is not well-controlled, and you rely on prescription medication or other therapeutics, it may be worth considering eliminating all these foods for a period,” said Nikki, Functional Nutritionist. This can help reduce the burden on your body and potentially alleviate symptoms. While there’s no definitive answer as to how long this elimination period should last, building a support system of experts who can guide you through the process is crucial.
Although it may seem challenging, individuals with diagnosed autoimmune conditions should never have gluten or dairy as a part of their diet. Nikki often hears people say, “I love my pasta/bread!” or “I have to have my cheese!” While she understands these cravings, she emphasizes that these foods can trigger biochemical reactions in the body, leading to inflammation and potential flares. Even if we’re not consciously aware of it, our bodies may be reacting negatively to these foods.
Opt for Organic
To minimize exposure to toxins like pesticides and herbicides, choosing organic food is highly recommended. These toxins not only burden the body but also disrupt hormones, further fueling inflammation and autoimmune disease.
If possible, consider growing your own food or connecting with local farmers and ranchers. By knowing the source and how your food is produced, you can prioritize organic options. If these options aren’t accessible to you, refer to resources like the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists, which provide information on the foods lowest in chemical exposure.
Discover the Benefits of Functional Nutrition
Curious about the potential benefits of functional nutrition for managing your autoimmune condition? Schedule a complimentary 15-minute HEALTH IS WEALTH consultation to learn more about how this approach can help you regain control over your health.
You don’t have to face your autoimmune condition alone. With the right knowledge, support, and practical lifestyle changes, you can have hope for a healthier and more fulfilling life!