Before we talk about how to manage autoimmune diseases, it’s first important to understand what’s really happening in your body…
Understanding Your Body’s Defence System
Have you ever wondered why sometimes your body seems to be fighting against you? Why do other people seem to be functioning a lot easier than you do? Well, autoimmune disorders can feel like an invisible battle, but understanding what is going on in your body can help you fight smarter, not harder.
An autoimmune disease occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies your healthy cells, tissues, or organs as foreign and potentially harmful, leading it to attack them. Think of it this way—your immune system is a person going to golf with a blindfold. When they want to hit the ball, do you think that’s what they’ll hit on the first try? I’m assuming your answer is no. This is exactly what is happening in your body. Your immune system is swinging its golf club blindly, attacking organs, tissues or cells as it swings.
Now that you know what’s happening in your body, let’s talk about why this happens and how your genes might be involved.
Why Your Genes Matter
You may ask yourself, if my immune system is a blind golfer, then why does it attack only one organ and not almost all of them? In this case, your genetics influence your immune system and may increase your susceptibility to specific autoimmune disorders.
This means that if your family has a history of diabetes, your immune system is prone to assuming the pancreas is a threat and attacks it. For a disorder like Lupus, there is no specific organ or tissue it attacks. Your skin, heart, joints, kidneys, or lungs could be under attack. No Lupus case is the same. That is why the symptoms of lupus can vary significantly from person to person. For instance, one individual may experience joint pain, whereas another might face skin rashes or kidney problems.
How Can I Manage Living With Such Disorders?
Living Gently With Your Body
The simplest way to manage autoimmune disorders is to avoid overworking your body and its organs. It’s like running: the faster and longer you run, the more out of breath you get. While running isn’t bad, excessive amounts can leave you feeling drained.
The same principle applies to your immune system. When your body is already fighting itself, the goal is to ease its workload and support balance rather than add strain.
Here are a few tips to help you live more gently with autoimmune disorders:
Prioritise Your Rest
Your body is most effective at healing and self-regulating when it is well-rested. Pay attention to the signs of fatigue; they are important. Remember to take breaks, ensure you get adequate sleep, and allow yourself to slow down when your body signals the need.
- Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Opt for foods that help reduce inflammation, such as leafy greens, berries, fish, nuts, and whole grains. It’s also wise to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive caffeine, as these can exacerbate inflammation.
- Manage Stress Levels
Stress is one of the biggest triggers for autoimmune flare-ups. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, journaling, or gentle yoga to calm your nervous system.
- Stay Hydrated and Active
Gentle exercises, such as walking or swimming, help maintain joint flexibility and enhance blood circulation without putting undue stress on your body. Always pay attention to your body’s signals and take breaks when necessary.
- Seek Regular Medical Guidance
Natural approaches are supportive, but they work best when combined with medical advice. Regular check-ins with your doctor help track your progress and adjust treatments safely.
Living with an autoimmune disorder can feel unpredictable, but understanding your body and caring for it gently can make a world of difference. Remember, progress may be slow, but every small step towards balance is a win for your health.
Manage Stress Levels
