Autoimmune diseases happen when the immune system malfunctions, mitakenly attacking the body’s own healthy tissues instead of protecting them.While we don’t know all the reasons why this happens, research points to a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Understanding autoimmunity is key to finding ways to prevent and treat it.
Autoimmune diseases are becoming more common. They affect nearly 24 million people in the U.S. and comprise more than 100 different conditions. (1) This includes rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, and lupus. Nearly 80% of the 23.5 million Americans affected by Autoimmune disease are women.(2) Women may be more at risk because of their higher hormonal levels, especially during childbearing years.
Overview of Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune diseases can affect any part of the body, from the skin and joints to the thyroid, nervous system, and digestive tract. Well-known examples include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, and Crohn’s disease. If you have one autoimmune disease, you’re more likely to get another one. (3)
Autoantibodies, or antibodies that attack the body’s own tissues, are used to diagnose and monitor these diseases. These autoantibodies target specific proteins or elements, which can lead to the symptoms experienced in autoimmune disorders. Immune system dysfunction, like the polyclonal expansion of autoreactive lymphocytes, also plays a key role in autoimmunity. (4)
The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are still not fully understood. But genetics, environmental factors, infections, and hormonal imbalances all contribute to the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues.(5,6,7,8) Understanding these factors is key to finding effective treatments and prevention strategies for these conditions. While genetic predisposition increases the likelihood of developing an autoimmune disease, current research suggests that environmental factors play a more significant role. Leading autoimmune researcher Aristo Vojdani estimates that 70% of autoimmune diseases are driven by environmental influences —such as toxic burden, dietary factors, gut dysbiosis, and infections—while only 30% can be attributed to genetic causes. (11)
The Avoidable Causes of Autoimmunity
Toxic Burden
Environmental exposures like infections and toxins can start an immune response in those at risk. (9,11) Therefore, a comprehensive functional medicine approach to preventing or treating autoimmune diseases should focus on identifying and addressing underlying infections or toxic burdens that may be present.
For instance, one of the most emergent environmental factors in auto-immune disease research is how chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) and industrial solvents like Trichloroethylene (TCE) are linked to autoimmune diseases. (9,11)
Infectious Agents
Infectious agents like bacteria, viruses, and parasites can trigger autoimmune diseases. They do this through molecular mimicry, where the immune system attacks the body’s own cells. This can lead to autoimmune reactions. (12) Infections also cause inflammation and disrupt the immune system, making autoimmune disorders more likely. (12)
Research has found high levels of antibodies against Rubella, Toxoplasma gondii, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and hepatitis C virus in Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). (12) Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can also trigger autoantibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). (12) IgM antibodies against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Proteus mirabilis are linked to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). (12) Emerging research is also beginning to connect COVID-19 and differerent autoimmune diseases from similar mechanisms. (13) Understanding how infections lead to autoimmunity is still evolving, so more research is needed to fully grasp the relationship between infections, the immune system, and autoimmune diseases.
Inflammatory Foods
The “Western diet” is full of processed and inflammatory foods, which may lead to or exacerberate autoimmune conditions. (12) Eating foods that are anti-inflammatory and nutrient-rich can help protect us from these triggers and keep our immune system strong.
Gut Health
Research shows that gut health plays a crucial role in combating autoimmune diseases. Leaky gut syndrome, also known as intestinal permeability, occurs when the protective lining of the gut becomes compromised, allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream. This can trigger an inappropriate immune response. (13) Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for supporting a well-functioning immune system. (13)
Studies have linked an imbalanced gut microbiome to the development of autoimmune diseases. (14) Factors such as diet, lifestyle choices, and antibiotic use can disrupt the composition of gut bacteria, leading to a reduction in beneficial, anti-inflammatory microbes and an overgrowth of harmful, pro-inflammatory species. This microbial imbalance contributes to systemic inflammation, which plays a key role in autoimmune disease progression. (14)
Stress
Stress, whether it’s physical, chemical, or emotional, is another big factor in autoimmune diseases. (15) Getting enough sleep, exercising, and managing stress can help our immune system stay healthy. At At Integrative Brain and Body, we know that stress management techniques are an integral component of helping those with autoimmune diseases.
Hormone Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can lead to autoimmune diseases. Sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone affect the immune system’s regulation and function. (16) Issues with these sex hormones as well as thyroid hormones are linked to immune dysregulation and the potential onset of autoimmune conditions. (16, 17) The connection between the endocrine and immune systems is key to understanding autoimmune disorders, and therefore this should be a piece of the puzzle that is assessed when you are getting evaluated for an autoimmune disorder.
In summary, genetics put one at greater risk for autoimmunity, but there is much that can be done from a lifestyle perspective by reducing toxic burden and improving one’s lifestyle. These are all underlying causes of autoimmunity that a functional medicine practitioner can help with by creating personalized treatment plans. These plans may include targeted dietary changes, supplementation, and lifestyle interventions aimed at restoring balance of the gut microbiome, reducing inflammation, and supporting immune function to mitigate the progression of autoimmune conditions. Understanding the preventable, lifestyle-based causes is key to finding effective ways to prevent and treat autoimmune diseases.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while genetic predisposition plays a role in the development of autoimmune diseases, the influence of environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and hormonal imbalances cannot be overstated. With autoimmune diseases on the rise and disproportionately affecting women, it is crucial to address the avoidable causes of autoimmunity, including toxic exposures, dietary habits, gut health, and stress management. A comprehensive understanding of these factors allows for the development of personalized functional medicine strategies aimed at prevention and treatment. By identifying and mitigating the underlying triggers of autoimmune diseases, individuals can take proactive steps toward improving their health and reducing their risk of developing these debilitating conditions. Emphasizing lifestyle modifications and environmental awareness can lead to better outcomes for those affected, ultimately fostering a healthier population equipped to combat the challenges posed by autoimmune disorders.
At Integrative Brain and Body, we specialize in identifying and addressing the root causes of autoimmune diseases through comprehensive, root- cause testing and holistic, lifestyle based approaches. Our personalized treatment plans target the environmental and lifestyle factors contributing to autoimmune conditions, helping patients achieve lasting relief and improved well-being. If you or a loved one are dealing with an autoimmune condition, contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey toward better health.
