Autoimmunity arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's cells, tissues, and organs, leading to the development of different autoimmune diseases marked by the creation of antibodies that harm healthy cells.
Managing and treating autoimmune diseases is intricate due to the individual variability in symptoms, disease progression, and impacts, even within the same autoimmune condition. Autoantibodies can exist for years before causing symptoms, highlighting the spectrum of autoimmunity. Early detection of antibodies can alter the development into a disease and aid in slowing or halting progression once it becomes an autoimmune condition.
Lifestyle modifications including reducing toxins, a healthy tailored-to-you diet, improvement to your lifestyle (sleep, stress, movement, healthy relationships) significantly impact overall wellness and the management of autoimmune conditions.
Seeking a doctor who will listen, help, and accurately diagnose autoimmunity can be a challenging and time-consuming process. It often takes time to find a healthcare professional who is understanding and willing to work with you to address your concerns. Many individuals with autoimmune conditions face dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers, which can be frustrating and disheartening. Did you know it typically takes seeing between 4-7 different doctors before you find one who diagnoses your autoimmunity.
When dealing with autoimmunity, it is helpful to work with a team of caring individuals, including finding a doctor who understands your condition and will work with you, and finding wellness professional who has knowledge and experience in this area and is willing to educate you on autoimmunity can make a significant difference in your journey to better health. A compassionate healthcare provider can serve as an advocate for you, helping to navigate the complexities of autoimmune diseases and providing support throughout your treatment.
In addition to finding the right healthcare provider, educating yourself about autoimmunity is essential. By gathering as much information as possible about your condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications, you can become better equipped to advocate for yourself and make informed decisions about your health. Empowering yourself with knowledge can help you communicate effectively with your doctor and team and take an active role in managing your autoimmune condition.
By working with caring professionals who listen, educate, and advocate for you, as well as taking the initiative to educate yourself, you can improve your overall health and well-being while navigating the challenges of living with an autoimmune condition.
Here are some links that will help educate you and provide you with some of the tools you will need to navigate your own autoimmune journey.
Kharrazian Resource Center, Dr. Datis Kharrazian
The T.I.G.E.R. Protocol- An excellent book on Autoimmunity by Dr. Akil Palanisamy.
Stories of Recovery- various real-life stories of recovery, healing, and living with Autoimmunity.
Thyroid Pharmacist, Dr. Izabella Wentz
The Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook, by Mickey Trescott
The Autoimmune Protocol Baking Book, by Wendi Washington-Hunt
The Autoimmune Protocol Comfort Food Cookbook, by Michelle Hoover
The Wahl’s Protocol Cooking for Life, by Terry Wahls, MD
Hashimoto’s Food Pharmacology, by Izabella Wentz, PharmD
The Hashimoto's AIP Cookbook, by Emily Kyle, MS, RDN
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