Food and Inflammation

Patients with autoimmune diseases are typically given medications with limited success because the current medical ‘acute care model’ is given to a chronic problem while the underlying causes are never investigated.

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The truth is that everyone has their own unique biochemical individuality. This is a common problem with almost all autoimmune diseases, cancers, and other serious disorders. A large part of our individuality comes from our gut microbiology. There is endless research on intestinal permeability, aka leaky gut. The gastrointestinal tract is 80% of our immune system. When inflammation is present, the tight junctions and intestinal mucosa can become damaged, causing gaps or “pores” in the lining of intestinal mucosa. Toxic byproducts in the digestive tract are then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported on to the liver. The molecules of food and toxins are “leaked” through the GI lining and then eventually affect systems throughout the body, causing inflammation in our joints and expressing toxins in autoimmune conditions and food sensitivities.

There are some tests to consider for those with any health challenge, as great strides have been made in regards to what labs can test for today. There are labs that assess food sensitivities, which is different than the IgE RAST test performed by traditional allergists. Cyrex lab is the most reliable testing center and they also can test for intestinal permeability. Through the serum they are able to detect antibodies to LPS, occludin/zonulin and the actomyosin network to identify the breakdown of a healthy intestinal barrier. In addition, a comprehensive digestive stool analysis (through Genova Labs) is essential for assessing and then healing the gut.

It is also very important to check vitamin D levels and to test for gluten-associated antibodies and cross-reactive foods since they play a large role in inflammatory and autoimmune processes.