Autoimmune Conditions

Factors That May Influence Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases are complex, and there is rarely a single explanation for why they develop. Research suggests that genetics, environmental exposures, infections, lifestyle factors, hormones, and other influences may interact differently depending on the specific autoimmune condition and the individual.

Genetics & Immune Function

Genetics can influence a person's susceptibility to certain autoimmune diseases. Specific genetic variants, including some within the HLA system, are associated with increased risk for particular autoimmune conditions. However, having a genetic predisposition does not necessarily mean that a person will develop an autoimmune disease.

Environmental & Lifestyle Factors

Environmental and lifestyle factors may influence the development or course of some autoimmune diseases. Depending on the condition, research has identified associations with factors such as certain infections, smoking, occupational or environmental exposures, medications, hormones, and other influences.

Gut Health & the Microbiome

The digestive system and gut microbiome play important roles in immune function. Researchers are studying how changes in the gut microbiome and intestinal barrier may influence immune activity and contribute to certain autoimmune diseases.

The relationship is complex and varies by condition. Increased intestinal permeability—sometimes referred to as “leaky gut”—is being studied in connection with autoimmunity, but it should not be considered a universal cause of autoimmune disease.

How We Help

Our practitioners use an individualized approach to support patients living with autoimmune conditions. Care may incorporate functional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and nutrition based on your diagnosis, symptoms, health history, current treatments, and individual needs.

Functional Medicine

• Review your health history, symptoms, lifestyle, and potential contributing factors

• Evaluate areas such as nutrition, digestive health, metabolic health, sleep, stress, and other concerns when relevant

• Use laboratory testing when appropriate to help guide individualized recommendations

Naturopathic Care

• Incorporate evidence-informed natural and supportive therapies when appropriate

• Consider nutrition, lifestyle, botanical medicine, supplements, and other individualized recommendations

• Work alongside your existing medical care and prescribed treatments

Functional Nutrition

• Develop personalized nutrition recommendations based on your health needs, symptoms, and lifestyle

• Identify nutritional patterns and concerns that may be relevant to your overall health

• Support digestive health and adequate nutrient intake as part of your broader care plan

Care That Works Alongside Your Medical Treatment

Autoimmune diseases often require ongoing medical care, and treatment varies depending on the specific condition. Functional and naturopathic medicine are not intended to replace appropriate care from your primary care physician or specialists.

Our practitioners can work alongside your existing healthcare team to provide individualized support for areas such as nutrition, digestive health, sleep, stress, lifestyle, and other health concerns that may affect your overall well-being.

When appropriate, we can also consider laboratory findings, medications, supplements, and other treatments you are already using when developing recommendations, helping create a more coordinated approach to your care.

Autoimmune Conditions We Work With

Our practitioners work with patients living with a variety of autoimmune and immune-related conditions. Care is individualized based on the specific diagnosis, symptoms, medical treatment, and overall health needs of each patient.

Conditions may include:

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)

• Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

• Celiac disease

• Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

• Sjögren’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis

• Graves’ disease

• Type 1 diabetes

• Other autoimmune and immune-related conditions

Common Questions About Autoimmune Conditions

Can functional medicine cure autoimmune disease?

There is currently no cure for most autoimmune diseases. Functional medicine may be used alongside conventional medical care to provide individualized support for nutrition, lifestyle, digestive health, sleep, stress, and other factors that may affect overall health and well-being.

Can I use functional medicine while taking medication for an autoimmune condition?

Yes. Functional medicine can be used alongside medications and care from your primary care physician or specialists. Your practitioner will consider your current medications, supplements, treatments, and medical history when developing recommendations and can collaborate with other members of your healthcare team when appropriate.

Do I need testing for autoimmune disease?

Testing depends on your symptoms, health history, diagnosis, and individual needs. If you have not yet been diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, appropriate medical evaluation may include laboratory testing, imaging, or referral to a specialist. For patients with an established diagnosis, additional testing may sometimes be considered to evaluate other health concerns and help guide individualized care.

Can diet help with autoimmune disease?

Nutrition can be an important part of overall health for people living with autoimmune disease, but there is no single “autoimmune diet” that is appropriate for everyone. Nutrition recommendations should consider the specific condition, symptoms, nutritional needs, medications, lifestyle, and individual response to different foods.

Should I stop seeing my specialist?

No. Autoimmune diseases may require ongoing care from specialists such as rheumatologists, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, neurologists, or dermatologists. Our practitioners can provide complementary support while you continue appropriate medical care for your specific autoimmune condition.