Link with Autoimmune Disease

Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue. These diseases can affect one or multiple organs or body systems, and can range from mild to life-threatening. Autoimmune diseases that have been linked with leaky gut include, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Celiac Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Standard treatment for autoimmune diseases typically involves medications to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. Please continue to work with your doctor if you’ve been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease.

A quick review of these autoimmune diseases.

Celiac disease

In celiac disease, the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This reaction triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

IBD is a group of autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation in the gut, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue. IBD can also lead to complications such as malnutrition, anemia, and bowel obstruction.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

RA is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. In addition to joint symptoms, RA can also cause systemic inflammation and damage to other parts of the body, including the heart, lungs, and eyes.

Multiple sclerosis (MS)

MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. MS can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, numbness or tingling in the limbs, weakness, and difficulty with coordination and balance. Over time, MS can lead to progressive disability and cognitive impairment.

Pathogenesis of Autoimmunity

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases, including heredity, the environment, contaminants, and altered gut microbiota. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in our understanding of the interplay between these factors.

Genetic predisposition and exposure to environmental triggers are key factors in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The traditional model of autoimmune pathogenesis has been challenged by the inclusion of a third component, damaged gastrointestinal function. This third component we’ve covered in great detail which is that poor functioning of paracellular tight junctions in the gut results in increased intestinal permeability. This increased intestinal permeability can allow harmful substances to enter the bloodstream and trigger an immune response, potentially causing an autoimmune reaction. Addressing leaky gut with integrative solutions can be beneficial for this population.