Why is autoimmune disease rising?
rising autoimmune disease
Autoimmune diseases have been rising by 3-9% annually over the past few decades in some parts of the world, impacting at least 5-8% of the global population.
Over 80 autoimmune diseases have been identified.
But some diseases like Atherosclerosis, Coronary Artery Disease, Alzheimer’s, Depression, other Mood Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Osteoarthritis and Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), are now believed to have an autoimmune component.
Why the increase in autoimmunity?
Pollution and Toxins - Exposure to industrial pollutants, chemicals, pesticides, plastics and micro plastic, and heavy metals have been linked to immune dysregulation
Hygiene - Increased cleanliness and reduced exposure to the earth and pathogens during childhood can lead to an underdeveloped immune system
Dietary Changes - Modern diets high in processed foods, sugars and refined carbs, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation and gut microbiome imbalances, potentially triggering autoimmune condition
Drugs - Can impact gut health, where our innate immune system and microbiome live and confer direct health benefits
Stress - Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and trigger or exacerbate autoimmune disease
Sedentary Lifestyle - A lack of physical activity can contribute to obesity and inflammation, increasing the risk of autoimmune conditions
Nutritional therapy and natural medicine, which reduce inflammation and restore balance, can reelife autoimmune symptoms and even put autoimmunity into remission.