Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by David Nazarian, MD. Dr. David Nazarian is a board certified Internal Medicine Physician and the Owner of My Concierge MD, a medical practice in Beverly Hills California, specializing in concierge medicine, executive health and integrative medicine. Dr. Nazarian specializes in comprehensive physical examinations, IV Vitamin therapies, hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, platelet rich plasma therapies. He has over 16 years of medical training and facilitation and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine. He completed his B.S. in Psychology and Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles, his M.D. from the Sackler School of Medicine, and a residency at Huntington Memorial Hospital, an affiliate of the University of Southern California.
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While there are many autoimmune diseases that are hereditary or unforeseeable, some of them may be avoided by being proactive. Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, celiac disease, and lupus may be prevented by eliminating risk factors. The general improvement of your health can also help prevent autoimmune disease by making your body stronger and more resilient.
Steps
Quit smoking to reduce your risk of developing a disease. Smoking can greatly increase your risk of developing an autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis.[1] If you are a smoker, ask your doctor about the best way for you to quit. They may recommend:[2]- Nicotine replacement therapy, which may come in the form of gum, patches, inhalers, sprays, or lozenges.
- Prescription medication to help with withdrawals, such as Zyban or Chantix.
- Behavioural therapy, where a counselor will help you find strategies to stop smoking.
Avoid exposure to environmental pollutants that may cause you harm. The development of autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can be linked to environmental pollutants, particularly asbestos and silica. Always wear protective equipment like a mask and gloves while working with harsh chemicals. Whenever possible, avoid construction sites or other areas where you may be exposed to asbestos, silica, or other possible contaminants.[3]- Harsh chemicals may include pesticides or strong solvents like paint thinner.
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Try a gluten-free diet if you show signs of a gluten intolerance. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the small intestine as a reaction to gluten. The development of the disease may be attributed to the consumption of gluten despite an intolerance for it. If you suspect you have a gluten intolerance, try removing it from your diet by avoiding wheat products, reading product labels carefully, and shopping for gluten-free food items.- Celiac disease can cause fatigue and chronic diarrhea.
- A gluten intolerance may results in symptoms like tiredness and stomachaches.
Lose weight if you are overweight to help prevent autoimmune disease. Being overweight or obese is associated with a higher chance of developing autoimmune disease like type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.[4] Ask your doctor about the best way to lose weight safely and effectively. Eat healthy, nutritious foods and start a regular exercise program to control or reduce your weight.[5]- Do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 3 or more times a week.
- Moderate exercise could include walking, jogging, riding a bicycle, rollerblading, or swimming.
- Avoid processed, fatty, or sugary foods that are associated with unhealthy weight gain.
Increase your vitamin D intake through moderate sun intake and diet. A vitamin D deficiency can increase your risk of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes. Get more vitamin D by getting 5-10 minutes of moderate sun exposure 2-3 times a week. [6] To add more vitamin D to your diet, eat fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel once or twice a week.[7]- Vitamin D can also be found in fish liver oils.
- Ask your doctor if vitamin D supplements would be right for you.
Take action to relieve stress. Stress can wreak havoc on your immune system and make you vulnerable to autoimmune diseases such as lupus.[8] Avoid undue stressors and take the time to do things that make you feel less anxious. If your stress feels overwhelming, discuss it with your doctor and look into counselling or therapy to help you feel more balanced.[9]- Activities like writing in a journal, doing yoga, cooking, jogging, or dancing may help you feel more relaxed.
Visit your doctor regularly to diagnose of any autoimmune diseases. Early detection and treatment is your best bet at slowing and managing an autoimmune disease. Visit your doctor at least once a year for a full check up. If you have any concerns about you health, contact them immediately.[10]- Your doctor will give you a full examination and run blood tests or whatever else is necessary to identify autoimmune conditions.
Expert Q&A
- QuestionIs vitamin D deficiency common?
David Nazarian, MDDr. David Nazarian is a board certified Internal Medicine Physician and the Owner of My Concierge MD, a medical practice in Beverly Hills California, specializing in concierge medicine, executive health and integrative medicine. Dr. Nazarian specializes in comprehensive physical examinations, IV Vitamin therapies, hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, platelet rich plasma therapies. He has over 16 years of medical training and facilitation and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine. He completed his B.S. in Psychology and Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles, his M.D. from the Sackler School of Medicine, and a residency at Huntington Memorial Hospital, an affiliate of the University of Southern California.
Diplomate, American Board of Internal MedicineYes! Many people are deficient in vitamin D because we just don't get to spend enough time in the sun each day. However, spending just 15 minutes out in the sun each day will improve your vitamin D intake.
Tips
- Aim to eat at least 5 servings of fruits or vegetables each day to help strengthen your immune system.Thanks
- Buy organic produce to be sure it is free or harsh chemicals like pesticides.Thanks
- Choose fresh food over processed foods or frozen meals, which often contain chemical preservatives.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17153844/
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/index.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/silica/risks.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid-arthritis.html
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/index.html
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15585788
- ↑ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4875-lupus
- ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/about/copingwith-stresstips.html
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Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
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