Perhaps you have been diagnosed with one or more autoimmune conditions or experienced symptoms that seem difficult to pinpoint and identify. The signs and symptoms of autoimmune conditions vary widely and may affect each person differently. Depending on the specific type of autoimmune disease, whole systems or different organs may be affected such as the thyroid gland in Hashimoto’s Disease or the body’s connective tissue in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus. With high chances of undergoing lifelong therapies to manage this imbalance, employing botanical medicine, personalized nutrition with intuitive eating, and lifestyle modifications under the guidance of your licensed naturopathic physician* are safe and effective options to assist your body in naturally achieving homeostasis (balance).
Causes of Autoimmunity
An autoimmune disease develops when your own immune system attacks your body, rather than protecting it from foreign pathogens causing disease. Naturally, your body remains protected from harmful environmental stimuli such as irritants, pathogens, and damaged cells by means of an inflammatory response, where your defense cells attack and destroy the infectious agent or abnormal cell! Once the problem is fixed, your body suppresses and regulates its inflammatory response to maintain homeostasis. However, individuals with autoimmune disease suffer from prolonged inflammation which causes damage and eventual destruction of nearby tissues.2 These self-attacks can occur anywhere in the body, affecting optimal functioning and reducing quality of life.
Signs and Symptoms of Autoimmunity
In autoimmune conditions, your immune system has lost its self-tolerance, harming the very tissues and organs it was designed to protect. Allopathic practices manage symptoms of autoimmune disease primarily by suppressing the immune system. However, it falls short on identifying and treating the complex root causes of the symptoms you are experiencing. Why Does My Body Do This?
You may have asked yourself this question. Autoimmune disease involves a complex interplay of many factors and body systems. At Natural Path to Wellness, your team of naturopathic medicine advisors are committed to guiding you in understanding your immune health and making the right choices as your body heals itself naturally. Our team’s mission is to help you understand and address the roles of:
Genetic Influence Some people are more likely to develop certain disease conditions than others due to differences in genetic background. However, our behavior and environment can play major roles in how our cells read and express our genes, affecting our risks of experiencing disease symptoms. For example, you may have the gene for Celiac Disease, but that gene may remain inactivated and not cause harm until your body becomes triggered by stress or illness. Nutrition The Standard American Diet is high in processed foods, simple sugars, unhealthy oils, poor-quality fats, and artificially-preserved meats, which are major drivers of inflammation and poor gut health. Rich in Omega-6 fatty acids but lacking in Omega-3, this diet consists of an imbalanced proportion of healthy and unhealthy fats and can eventually trigger low-grade systemic inflammation. Additionally, lack of essential nutrients from poor dietary choices can cause weakened immune function. By incorporating chia seeds, flax seeds, and seafood like salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies, and oysters into your meals, you can increase your body’s absorption of Omega-3 and help regulate its inflammatory response. If you are still unable to get the recommended amount of Omega-3’s, a good-quality fish oil can be a great way to supplement. Gastrointestinal Health An unbalanced diet can negatively impact gut health, alongside viruses, bacteria, stress, and medications. Because certain medications, such as antibiotics, are taken and absorbed by our gastrointestinal system, these can negatively affect the balance of the beneficial and harmful bacteria in our gut overtime, leading to inflammation and an exaggerated immune response. Mental Health Excessive inflammation, often triggered by stress and depression, causes harmful growth of bacteria that can lead to an imbalance in the natural metabolic activities of the gut and damage to its protective barrier. Naturally, our gut’s barrier prevents the entry of toxic elements into the bloodstream. With a leaky gut (a.k.a. intestinal hyperpermeability), tiny bits of undigested food, pathogens, and other foreign objects may enter the blood and provoke another immune response! This makes your body go on high alert and attack! Sleep Your body is doing important work while you sleep to prepare you for another day of activities. It cleanses, detoxifies, and repairs itself. Without an adequate amount of sleep, you may encounter increased inflammation and difficulties in effectively managing your stress and health issues. Physical Activity Regular exercise helps maintain balance and harmony of beneficial microorganisms needed for optimal body function. Consistent physical activity additionally improves digestion by facilitating movement of food, regulating signals within the gastrointestinal system, and improving local blood flow. For autoimmune conditions affecting connective tissue (like muscles and joints), gentle movement can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Take care not to overdo it, though. You may need to work up slowly to prevent increasing inflammation. Exposure to Pathogens Harmful bacteria, toxins, or viruses can cause negative changes to your body’s normal microbiota, which can affect the regulation of your immune system. Once invaded, the good bacteria in your gut which help in maintaining internal balance may be destroyed, resulting in an imbalance that will eventually cause problems with how your body distinguishes harmful pathogens from its own cells. This ultimately causes your immune response to malfunction and become overactive, leading to inflammation and the development of an autoimmune condition. Trauma The nervous system is intertwined with the digestive system. Trauma dysregulates the nervous system, causing a widespread effect to other parts of your body. The vagus nerve, extending from the brain to the abdomen, plays a role in mind-body connection. It is part of your parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for helping you rest and digest. Talking to your naturopathic medicine advisors will assist you in exploring natural and holistic approaches to stimulating your vagus nerve and strengthening the connection that helps your body achieve and maintain homeostasis. The Role of Naturopathic Medicine
*At Natural Path to Wellness, our team of licensed naturopathic physicians (naturopathic medicine advisors for clients in states that do not regulate the practice of naturopathic medicine) are committed to guiding you through making empowered choices. We value seeking natural options for your unique needs so that you can truly get to the heart of the matter and address the root cause of your symptoms. All of our Naturopathic Medicine Advisors earned doctorates in naturopathic medicine from medical schools accredited by the CNME which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. We believe in the healing power of nature and trust in the inherent intelligence of the human body to heal itself given the right conditions. We understand that identifying and addressing the root cause and treating the whole person are absolutely essential for restoring your body’s dynamic balance. Let us help you return to optimal functioning and radiant health today! Send us an email at [email protected] to learn more about how to work with us to help restore your body’s natural ability to heal itself. Wishing you peace and vitality, Vanessa S., contributor Edited by: Kate Nemenzo Some of Our favorite supplements for autoimmunity
Remember - Autoimmune diseases are serious, degenerative conditions. Always communicate with the members of your care team, including any primary care providers or specialists, consultants, or nutritionists to keep them abreast of any changes you are making to your health regimen. Always be transparent about any nutritional/herbal or other supplements you are taking, as well as any complimentary treatments. This article is for education purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
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One of the ways the human body is intricately connected in its anatomy and physiology is through what is known as the gut-brain axis. In the gut, or intestines, a variety of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, archaea, and viruses, feed off of nutrients to support the body’s metabolic and immune functions. These microorganisms aren’t to be feared or rid of; in fact, it is important to maintain a healthy balance in the gut for regulation of bodily functions, particularly in the brain.
Pathways of Connection Research supports that there are likely four main pathways through which the brain and the microbiota of the intestines communicate. Nervous System: The microorganisms produce local signals in the sensory neurons connected to the vagus nerve, which plays a role in the body’s stress response and satiety signals. This means that a healthy intestinal microbiome can actually help you feel less stressed and avoid overeating. Additionally, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract produces approximately 90% of the body’s serotonin. Also known as “the happy hormone,” serotonin is a neurotransmitter important for sleep and mood and is the primary target for drug therapy for depression. Endocrine System: Endocrine cells in the intestines deliver signaling molecules based on the nutrients produced by the microorganisms. The nourishment of the microbiota impacts the release of hormones responsible for regulating blood pressure, mood, and the sleep-wake cycle. Immune System: 70 to 80% of the body’s immune cells are located in the GI tract. The microorganisms can directly connect with the immune system as they guard the physical barrier of the intestines. Dysregulation in the microbiota often lessens the support of the lining and leads to inflammation related to intestinal hyperpermeability (a.k.a. leaky gut syndrome). In other words, an imbalance of the intestinal microbiome can actually contribute to damage of the intestines themselves and open you up to the development of food allergies, food sensitivities, and infection. Metabolism: The most direct pathway is through the production of short chain fatty acids, which influence the sympathetic nervous system (the body’s fight-or-flight response) and cross the blood-brain barrier to regulate the development of microglia in the brain. Microglia are the brain’s immune system cells, and they continue to develop throughout a person’s lifetime. In particular, they are activated by disease states, such as infection. These cells contribute to neuroplasticity (the ability of neurons to alter their signaling associations depending on environmental stimuli) by developing and maintaining neural connections in the brain. Essentially, microglia allow our brains to learn and adapt through neuroplasticity. Signals from the microorganisms in the GI tract are essential to the optimal functioning of microglia throughout our lives. Impacts of the Connection Recent studies have increased the understanding of the connection between the gut microbiota and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. Another prominent interest in the field of study is the impact of the gut microbiota on mental health. Researchers conducting human clinical trials continue to study the impact of probiotics on the gut-brain connection by measuring markers of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. A review of ten clinical trials describes reduction in symptoms of depression following probiotics. Probiotics are only one form of various dietary elements that promote the healthy regulation of the gut microbiome. Others include prebiotics, synbiotics, and short-chain fatty acids. Supporting the Gut Microbiome and the Brain Eating foods with probiotics introduces live microorganisms to the intestines; meanwhile, foods with prebiotics (a type of dietary fiber) support the growth of the microorganisms. Synbiotics combine the harmonious effects of prebiotics and probiotics while also acting to increase concentrations of the short-chain fatty acids. Short-chain fatty acids are produced by the intestinal microbiome to provide energy to the intestinal cells, support metabolism, and help prevent or soothe inflammation. 
Foods that could lead to dysregulation of the gut microbiome:
Examples of foods with beneficial probiotics:
Examples of foods with beneficial prebiotics:
Ultimately, we believe that the strongest, most diverse intestinal microbiome will result from regular inclusion of whole and fermented foods. If you need extra probiotic support, check with your doctor to see if supplementation is appropriate for you. Examples of our favorite practitioner-grade probiotics designed to support the intestinal microbiome and its connection to mental health include:
This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your licensed naturopathic physician or other licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or supplements. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
About the Author: Daelyn Quinn is an undergraduate student at the University of South Florida. She studies Cell and Molecular Biology, as well as Spanish, and plans to attend a nationally accredited Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program. Outside of academic and professional pursuits, she enjoys exploring cities with friends and family, running outdoors, and reading next to one of Florida’s many bodies of water. 10/10/2023 A Holistic Approach to Mental Health: Embracing Naturopathic & Natural Medicine OptionsRead Now  It is estimated that 1 out of 5 people live with mental health issues. Starting an open dialogue about mental wellness is crucial. Mental health is whole body health. One is not more important than the other, they are dependent upon one another. According to “No health without mental health” in The Lancet, “Mental disorders increase the risk for communicable and non-communicable diseases and contribute to unintentional and intentional injury. Conversely, many health conditions increase the risk for mental disorder, and comorbidity complicates help-seeking, diagnosis, and treatment, and influences prognosis.” This means that having a mental illness increases your risk of becoming sick and developing chronic disease, and that your physical health impacts your mental health.
If you have ever struggled with mental health issues, you may have received a prescription from your medical or mental health provider. Pharmaceuticals serve as the main and sometimes only treatment of these issues in a conventional model. They can be absolutely necessary and lifesaving in certain situations. But there is more to consider. Have you ever wondered why we have mental illnesses? What factors contribute to them? Have you ever thought, “There has to be more to this picture?” There are a multitude of factors that affect our mental health. Factors including genetics and environmental exposures play a role. Some things that can affect a person’s mental health are:
Each mental illness can look very different. Remember we are all bio-individuals! Here are some signs you or someone you know could use some support:
It's important to consider the root cause, rather than just masking the symptoms, when it comes to both physical and mental health. Used in combination with treatment provided by mental health counselors and other providers, the Naturopathic approach to integrative mental health examines many factors that contribute to your whole-person well-being. It supports your natural healing ability, promotes physical health, encourages healthy habits, and, when pharmaceutical intervention is necessary, helps to minimize medication side effects. When you work with qualified practitioners and address underlying issues, you can help support your body’s and mind’s optimal functioning. There are numerous treatment options available, and I encourage you to explore an integrative approach to your mental health. To support mental wellness, factors such as nutrition, exercise, relationships, spirituality, life stressors, and sleep need to be examined. Areas of focus to increase mental well-being naturally:
Need to talk? 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Text or Call 988 NAMI: The National Alliance on Mental Illness Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Text “helpline” to 62640 NAMI: Teen & Young Adult Helpline Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) Text “Friend” to 62640 SAMHSA: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline 1-800-662-help National Eating Disorders Association Call 988 Text “NEDA” to 741741 Wishing you peace and vitality, Vanessa S., contributor Remember folks, this blog is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician! Always consult your licensed healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen.  How will you support your health?
Today is a day for women everywhere to come together, support one another, and recognize that we must prioritize our health. No matter where we are along our health journeys, we can take small actions each and every day to improve our health and love ourselves! Below are five simple ways to encourage optimal health today and the whole year through! Spend time in nature Forest bathing, gardening, and walking in the park are just a few ways we can get in touch with nature. Depending on your environment, this can look different for everyone. Forest bathing is my favorite! A lush green forest's positive vibes and tranquility cannot be beat! No access to a safe nature retreat? No problem! Try caring for a few houseplants, grow fragrant and health-promoting herbs in your kitchen, or experiment with container gardening. Even the tiniest of spaces can grow fruits or vegetables! Research shows that getting our hands dirty and spending time gardening can increase happiness and longevity. In “Gardening is beneficial for health; A meta-analysis,” Masashi Soga et al. concluded, “The results presented here suggest that gardening can improve physical, psychological, and social health, which can, from a long-term perspective, alleviate and prevent various health issues facing today's society.” Centenarians in Blue Zones are known to keep gardens. Hello, positive aging! Gardening is a form of stress relief, a source of healthy microbes, and can provide your family with the freshest produce. Connect with friends and family The safe and positive people in our lives can bring us so much joy! Healthy relationships mean healthier bodies. A study by Holt-Lunstad et al. studied the relationship between social connection and public health. They found that “A robust body of scientific evidence has indicated that being embedded in high-quality close relationships and feeling socially connected to the people in one’s life is associated with decreased risk for all-cause mortality as well as a range of disease morbidities.” What does this mean to you? Cultivating healthy relationships in your life means less disease, fewer health problems, and more vitality! A large portion of the population lacks sufficient social connection. We must be reminded that the people in our lives, or lack of them, are an overlooked health indicator. Treat your body to nutrient-dense foods Eat your vegetables. Not the first time you’ve heard this? I thought so. We’ve heard time and again to ‘eat the rainbow’ or ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’. Too many women stress over calories, carbs, or fat. Restrictive eating doesn’t feel good and usually is not sustainable long-term. Plus, it can be detrimental to our mental and physical health. Simply eat as many whole foods as you can. Get as close to the natural state of the plant as possible. Having trouble getting all your veggies in? Start small. Try incorporating an additional serving of vegetables each day. Snacking on carrots and hummus or adding a side of greens to each meal are small moves with a big impact! Not a fan of veggies? Know that it is totally normal to have an aversion to some flavors, especially bitter. The Standard American Diet is comprised mainly of very bland and very sweet foods. It will take time, but if you keep adding in these little bursts of produce your body will start to crave it! Practice positive self-talk Your body is listening! Tell it something good today! There is no one like you. All women are unique. Our bodies, minds, and experiences are unique. What we think and what we say to ourselves has an impact on whole body health. The mind-body connection is a powerful tool we can employ to boost our health and vitality. The great thing about positive self-talk? Anybody can do it anywhere. It is free! Write yourself some love notes on your bathroom mirror, purchase or make affirmation cards, or maybe recite a self-loving mantra a few times a day. The body is listening and responding accordingly! “My body is healthy and capable” “I love who I am becoming” “I am strong. I can do anything” “I have the power to create the life I desire” “I nourish my body because I love myself” Focus on joyful movement Wow! I have the ability to exercise today! My body is truly amazing! As women, we often feel the pressure to look a certain way or weigh a certain amount. We don’t owe the world anything. We do owe ourselves. We owe ourselves love and care. Let us celebrate the unique and marvelous bodies we were given! Exercise is a sacred act of self-care. Research shows that 30 minutes a day can work wonders for your health. The American Heart Association along with the American College of Sports Medicine presents the following recommendation. “To promote and maintain health, all healthy adults aged 18-65 need moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes on five days each week...” Do what you love. Move in ways that feel good and natural. Be gentle and kind to yourself, always remembering that you are a beautiful work in progress. Prioritize activities that you love and work with your life. For me, that looks like yoga at home in my living room and long walks after dinner with my family. How does it look for you? I would LOVE to hear what you are doing today to move joyfully! Remember you are worth it! Vanessa S, contributor Friendly reminder-- for educational purposes only. Always consult your primary care physician or other licensed provider before making any changes to your health regimen. |
THE BLOG AT NATURAL PATH TO WELLNESSAuthorSNatural Path to Wellness values community education and welcomes contributions from writers with a background in Naturopathic Medicine, natural health and wellness, herbalism, homeopathy, Nature Cure, and more. Disclosures & Policies: This and other blog posts may contain affiliate links. Please view our disclosures page for more information.
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