According to the American Autoimmune Related Disease Association, approximately 50 million Americans suffer from an autoimmune disease. But what actually causes autoimmune diseases? Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but they are believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Key Causes & Triggers
1. Genetics – Some people inherit genes that make them more prone to autoimmune conditions.
2. Gut Health & Leaky Gut – Poor gut health or increased intestinal permeability may allow harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, triggering immune responses.
3. Chronic Infections & Viruses – Viruses like Epstein-Barr (EBV), COVID-19, or bacterial infections can trigger or worsen autoimmune responses.
4. Toxins & Chemicals – Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, mold, or pollution may contribute to immune dysregulation.
5. Chronic Stress – Long-term stress can lead to inflammation and hormone imbalances, increasing autoimmune risk.
6. Diet & Food Sensitivities – Processed foods, sugar, gluten, and dairy may trigger inflammation in some individuals.
7. Hormonal Imbalances – Autoimmune diseases are more common in women, possibly due to hormonal fluctuations (e.g., pregnancy, menopause, birth control use).
8. Vitamin & Mineral Deficiencies – Low levels of vitamin D, omega-3s, and magnesium are linked to increased risk.
9. Overactive Immune Response – Certain vaccines, infections, or immune stimulants may, in rare cases, trigger an autoimmune response in susceptible individuals.
Examples of Autoimmune Diseases
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – Attacks the thyroid (leading to hypothyroidism).
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – Affects the joints.
• Lupus (SLE) – Affects multiple organs.
• Type 1 diabetes – Destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS) – Affects the nervous system.
While autoimmune diseases can’t always be prevented, improving gut health, managing stress, reducing toxin exposure, and eating an anti-inflammatory diet may help lower risk or manage symptoms.
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