Autoimmune Diseases are chronic health conditions in which the body’s own defenses (immunity) mistakenly attack various bodily organs and systems.
It’s unfortunate, however, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroid disease, and celiac disease are plaguing millions of individuals. Each year, the number of affected patients continues to increase while the number of autoimmune diseases keeps growing. Those affected often suffer from symptoms ranging from extreme pain and fatigue to decreased bodily function and more.
While those diagnosed with these life-threatening illnesses are often prescribed medication as a resolve, many of these medications don’t work effectively or come with severe side effects. Essentially, medical experts like Dr. Kan from Ask Dr. Kan Show have started taking a holistic approach to this growing epidemic.
So, how does one who suffers from these life-altering diseases turn things around without the immune-suppressing medications with harsh side effects?
Six holistic approaches for fighting Autoimmune Disease:
Try to Pinpoint the Cause
The first thing you and your doctor want to do is try to pinpoint the cause of your autoimmune disease. There are a number of contributing factors which could include lifestyle issues such as an infection or virus, food allergies, poor gut health, and more. Your doctor can run a series of tests to narrow down potential culprits for your autoimmune flare-ups and symptoms.
Change Your Diet
Eating foods that increase inflammation or that are causing an allergic reaction only exacerbates your autoimmune disease. To treat it you’ll need to create a customized diet that keeps you away from things that aren’t good for you. This means incorporating more fresh fruit, green leafy veggies, complex carbs, and protein into your diet while eliminating triggers like gluten or whatever else you may be allergic to.
Detox
From environmental factors to lifestyle choices the body is exposed to a number of harmful chemicals and contaminants that can weaken the immune system and cause autoimmune disease. To remedy the problem, it is recommended that you safely detox. Detoxification with proper hydration helps to flush the system which can help you get rid of infections, parasites, viruses, disease, and more. It is imperative that you work with a medical expert or nutritionist as all detoxing is not created equally. You want to ensure that you’re using safe practices to enhance your health.
Incorporate Healthy Products
Sometimes your body needs some assistance in rebalancing and fighting off disease. The foods you eat may not necessarily be enough to do the trick. Other than taking additional vitamin supplements like C or D, you can also purchase probiotics or Neurometabolic supplements like those found at the Ask Dr. Kan Shop to help improve brain and gut health. You’ll need to take the supplements regularly to see improvements.
Exercise Regularly
An hour of exercise each day can reduce autoimmune flare-ups, strengthen your immune system, and reduce stress. Regular workouts help to reduce inflammation which essentially relieves pain which is a common symptom for those suffering from such conditions. It also helps to maintain a healthy weight which is beneficial for someone with rheumatoid arthritis as the extra weight can make the pain worse. Lastly, exercise is also a natural stress-reliever as it lowers cortisol levels.
While exercising may not seem ideal when you’re in pain and suffering, but it really can do the trick. Consider low-impact physical activities like walking or swimming. Start with a few minutes each day and work your way up to an hour at least 3-5 times a week.
Cut Back on Stress
Stress is horrible for individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases. Many people dealing with chronic stress also complains of pain. Studies have shown that higher cortisol levels can increase pain. Therefore, you want to try and reduce as much stress in your life as possible.
Find ways to streamline processes, develop routines, learn time management skills, resolve or dissolve toxic relationships, and if necessary, ask for help. When you are stressed, however, there are remedies like taking a bath, meditation, yoga, exercising, reading a book, or even taking a nap. Start using these strategies to keep your stress levels down.
Living with an autoimmune disease can be difficult. While some relief can be found in prescription medications, the unpredictability of success and the adverse side effects cause some to look for other solutions. If you are one of those people, talk with your doctor and develop a plan to use the methods discussed above.
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