Have you ever felt like your body is at war with itself? That’s the reality for millions of people with autoimmune diseases.
These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to a range of health issues.
But here’s something you might not know: your gut plays a huge role in this process. In fact, about 70% of your immune system calls your gut home.
This connection between your digestive system and your body’s defenses is more important than many realize.
In this post, we’ll explore how your gut health and autoimmune diseases are connected. We’ll look at the science behind it, what it means for your health, and what you can do about it.
What’s a Healthy Gut?
Your gut, or gastrointestinal tract, is a complex system that affects your entire body. It runs from your mouth to your colon. It’s home to about 100 trillion bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms collectively called the microbiome. A healthy gut efficiently breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and maintains a balanced microbiome.
These microorganisms help digest certain foods, produce essential vitamins like B12 and K, create short-chain fatty acids that feed your gut cells, and influence your immune system’s development and function.
The Gut-Autoimmune Connection
Let’s explore how gut health and autoimmune are related.
Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural immune response, but chronic inflammation can be harmful. In autoimmune diseases, the body’s immune system malfunctions and mistakenly attacks its own cells.
This can include targeting beneficial gut bacteria, leading to inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease.
These autoimmune attacks can cause persistent inflammation in various parts of the body, potentially resulting in long-term health issues.
Dysbiosis
Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the gut microbiome. In a healthy gut, beneficial bacteria outnumber harmful ones. When this balance shifts, it can alter immune system function.
Leaky Gut
The intestinal lining acts as a selective barrier, controlling what enters the bloodstream. In leaky gut syndrome, also called increased intestinal permeability, this barrier becomes more permeable.
As a result, toxins and bacteria can leak into the bloodstream. A leaky gut has been linked to a variety of health issues including autoimmune disease.
Read Also: What Really Causes Autoimmune Diseases? Here’s the Surprising Truth
Treating Autoimmune Diseases and Gut Health: A Whole-Body Approach
Autoimmune diseases and digestive issues are complex conditions that require a multifaceted treatment approach. At SmartLife Wellness, we employ a holistic perspective, aiming to address the underlying causes rather than just managing symptoms, all from the comfort of your home.
We view the body as an interconnected system. This approach looks beyond the affected organs to examine how various bodily systems might contribute to the condition, utilizing advanced telemedicine techniques and at-home testing methods.
Our clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating these imbalances as part of comprehensive at-home autoimmune disease and digestive issue treatment plans.
We leverage cutting-edge telehealth technology to deliver our expertise directly to you, no matter where you are in the United States. Whether you’re in Arkansas, Arizona, or any other state, our doors are open to you. Experience the convenience and effectiveness of our online approach to holistic health.
Schedule a virtual discovery call with us today and learn how our wellness solutions can transform your life!