07 Nov Is there a link between nutrition and autoimmune disease? Science-Backed Dietary Interventions from a NYC Dietitian

Autoimmune disorders involve the immune system mistakenly targeting the body’s healthy tissues. Commonly known diseases include Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Chron’s disease, Hashimoto’s, and Celiac, among others. They can greatly impact someone’s quality of life.  According to the CDC, approximately 8% of Americans have an autoimmune disease, and over 75% of those affected are women.

Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin problems, and digestive problems, among others. And because not just one test can diagnose an autoimmune disease, people often go years without getting the right treatment. We are here to tell you that your discomfort is “not in your head.”

Anti-Inflammatory Diet Plans Can Help Alleviate Symptoms:

Some foods and dietary patterns have been proven to trigger, or exacerbate, symptoms related to autoimmune diseases. These symptoms often are directly related to inflammation levels in the body. Ultra processed foods, foods high in simple sugars, simple carbs, fried foods, saturated fats, and processed meats can cause metaflammation. This is not good for autoimmune diseases.

But just as food can exacerbate symptoms, so, too, can food help symptoms. A central principle in managing autoimmune diseases through nutrition is adopting an anti-inflammatory diet.  Specific dietary choices can either contribute to or reduce this inflammation.

Key Components of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet:

1. Vibrant Fruits and Vegetables: Colorful, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as berries, leafy greens, and broccoli, are potent allies in combating inflammation.
2. Healthy Fats: Incorporating sources of healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and omega-3-rich fatty fish, such as salmon, can help reduce inflammation.
3. Whole Grains: Prioritize whole grains like quinoa and brown rice over refined grains. They offer fiber and nutrients that support gut health—a critical factor in autoimmune diseases.
4. Lean Protein Sources: Opt for lean protein options such as poultry, fish, tofu, beans, and legumes. Reduce the intake of saturated fats, known inflammation triggers.
5. Spices and Herbs: Ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and garlic boast natural anti-inflammatory properties and can be part of many delicious recipes.

A great, delicious anti-inflammatory diet is the Mediterranean Diet — one that emphasizes all of the above components. And it’s not costly!

Common Nutrition Guidelines for Autoimmune Diseases:

1. Consult a Registered Dietitian: Each autoimmune disease is unique, and individual dietary needs vary. Registered dietitians can craft individualized dietary interventions, tailored to specific symptoms and objectives.
2. Drink, drink, drink: Adequate hydration is essential for overall health and can help alleviate symptoms like fatigue and inflammation. Put on an alarm to remind you to drink water. (Keep it simple! Steer clear of sugary drinks and keep a jug of water with lemon slices in the fridge.)
3. Identify Food Triggers: Maintaining a food journal can assist in identifying any connections between specific foods and symptom flare-ups. Try our gut restoration bundle to determine what might be causing your discomfort.
4. Medication and Nutrition Go Hand in Hand: Nutrition should complement medical treatment, not replace it. As registered dietitian nutritionists we work with your doctors to provide you with the best medical nutrition therapy. Always, always consult with your primary caregiver with any medical condition.
5. Support for supplement protocol: Consult with a healthcare professional before adding supplements to your regimen. Supplements can address specific nutrient deficiencies or support overall health, but taken without the care of a doctor or RDN is not recommendable.
6. Listen to Your Body: Pay close attention to how your body responds to different foods and adjust your diet accordingly. If a particular food consistently worsens symptoms, consider eliminating it.

Nutrition interventions tailored to your unique needs can significantly impact symptom management of autoimmune diseases. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins serves as the foundation for managing these conditions. Personalized dietary interventions developed with a registered dietitian nutritionist can address unique requirements associated with various autoimmune diseases. Always consult with your healthcare provider and a registered dietitian to create a customized nutrition plan.