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Autoimmune Diseases: Immune System Gone Loco?

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One of the most interesting concepts that I’ve learned is that so-called “autoimmune diseases” are caused by accumulation of toxins in the whole body (that means including the brain, which, we are led to believe is impermeable like an iron curtain because of the blood brain barrier). This is in contrast to the general belief that autoimmune diseases are caused by an “immune system gone haywire”. Standard treatments include the use of anti-inflammatories such as NSAID’s and steroids. If they don’t work, then the use of immuno-suppressive agents are next in line. Makes sense if you just want to address the symptoms of inflammation. However, doesn’t it make more sense to try to find out the cause of why the immune system’s gone haywire? Toxins from the environment including heavy metals, pesticides, synthetic hormones and microorganisms, as well as toxins produced from internal metabolism, all contribute to these toxic burden. Well-functioning detoxification organs help our bodies eliminate these toxic build up. However, there are those people who just aren’t able to keep up with the elimination of these wastes. Thus, symptoms of toxicity start to appear. These include allergies, asthma, digestive problems, fatigue, headaches, insomnia, joint pain, mood swings, skin problems and weight changes. Therefore, it makes sense to help rid the body of toxins and these can be done in different ways. Simple detoxification “procedures” that someone could easily incorporate include fasting, drinking more water, eating a plant-based diet, deep breathing and exercise. Other detox programs may need the guidance and support of a nutritionally-minded physician or other holistic practitioners. Nutritional supplements to support the organs of elimination and drainage such as kidneys, liver, lymphatics, lungs, colon and skin, all go a long way in improving someone’s over-all health. As far as auto-immune illnesses are concerned, natural anti-inflammatories can be used for symptomatic treatment while waiting for the “detox treatments” take effect. These include your essential fatty acids (from fish oil or krill oil or for vegetarians, flax seed oil), curcumin, and peppermint oil, among many others.

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To Cleanse or Not to Cleanse….

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If Demi and Ashton are doing it, shouldn’t we all be doing it? I’m talking about the Master Cleanse here, silly. What is it anyway? Actually, it ‘s a very simple program that consists primarily of a liquid diet. It’s divided into 3 phases but the main program involves a lemonade diet consisting of fresh lemon, maple syrup and cayenne pepper in pure water. It’s a pretty drastic program especially if someone has never done any detox or cleansing program at all. This is not the only detox program available, however. I’ve recommended other ones that are as simple and effective. Anyway, doing a cleanse is no joke. It could be accompanied by uncomfortable symptoms depending on how “toxic” one is. These symptoms may include skin reactions (such as rashes), nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, muscle aches, body odor, headaches, increased sweating, increased urination or increased mucus formation. They’re usually temporary and typically disappear in 2-3 days. When this happens, it means that the body is actually detoxifying itself. If the symptoms persist however, it may be time to call it quits or consult with your holistic healthcare practitioner. People who may not be candidates for a cleanse include those with sluggish bowel movement (constipation), decreased liver and kidney function, those who have chronic degenerative diseases and those are taking prescription medications. Who are appropriate candidates for a cleanse? Basically, everybody (except those previously mentioned) but especially those with people with allergies, joint pain, fatigue, asthma, digestive problems, weight gain, skin problems (eczema, adult acne), headaches, etc. When is the best time to do a cleanse? I recommend doing a major cleanse twice yearly. However, doing some type of cleanse daily could prevent the accumulation of toxins in our bodies (that in turn, could eventually lead to dis-ease). I use a glutathione precursor product twice daily myself and I love it. What can we do to support our detoxification program? Simple things such as getting enough sleep, drinking adequate water (half a person’s body weight in ounces ideally), eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding processed foods, reducing or coping with stress better, exercising regularly and maintaining a positive attitude. Let’s do it!

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