Autoimmune diseases can affect anyone at any time, and they can typically bring burdensome symptoms as well. The immune system is a highly specialized network of cells and organs that work to detect foreign compounds, or proteins, and fight that source. Many of us may not realize how incredible the immune system is, but each day, week, and month the body is exposed to handfuls of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and it is constantly detecting and fighting off these compounds to keep the body functioning. Simply put, without an immune system, we would all not be able to survive long.
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system fights off the body’s naturally healthy cells. It can affect anyone at any age, but women are particularly more likely to develop autoimmune disorders when compared to men. Of the more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases currently known, women are two times more likely to develop these diseases, especially as older adults.
One potential reason for this is that it might be in the genetic code of women. A recent study showed that a certain molecule that is made by the X chromosome can generate antibodies to one’s own tissues. With that said, simply being a woman with dominant X chromosomes can lead to autoimmune disease risk and can create a divide among genders.
5 Common Autoimmune Diseases That Affect Women
Here is a brief explanation of five common autoimmune diseases that women are at risk of developing.
- Lupus – This autoimmune condition affects the connective tissues in the body and potentially certain organs depending on severity. It can lead to symptoms such as joint pain, muscle weakness, and red rashes on the nose or cheeks.
- Psoriasis – This autoimmune disease can lead to thick and scaly skin that typically is raised and itchy. It can affect the joints and skin and can be quite noticeable if the skin is exposed.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – This disease is commonly diagnosed in young women and can cause inflammation and pain to the joints of the hands, wrists, knees, and feet. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause debilitating pain and discomfort and can be a burden on even the simplest parts of daily life.
- Thyroid Diseases – These autoimmune diseases involve the thyroid making too much thyroid hormone (Grave’s Disease) or too little (Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis). This can lead to difficulty in maintaining body weight and may contribute to certain heart rhythm abnormalities.
- Type I Diabetes – While type II diabetes is well-known, type I diabetes involves the body attacking the cells of the pancreas. This version of diabetes requires insulin injections and is not determined by lifestyle habits, even though a sound lifestyle is necessary for maintenance of the disease.
Is Eczema an Autoimmune Disease?
One of the most common conditions to affect the skin at any age is eczema. This condition can lead to dry, chapped, and itchy skin that can be burdensome. While common knowledge suggests this condition as being an autoimmune disease, is eczema an autoimmune disease?
Data from the National Eczema Association states that it actually is not. Eczema is an inflammatory condition that affects the skin and has many symptoms that overlap with many other autoimmune diseases. The bacteria that reside in the skin may play a factor in eczema, and certain allergens and other environmental conditions may contribute to its symptoms.
Can Vitamins Minimize the Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases?
Whenever an illness or condition affects the body, it seems over-the-counter supplements are a first go-to. Certain herbs such as echinacea and spirulina may initiate the immune system and play a factor in autoimmune symptoms. While these supplements can initiate certain immune cells that can contribute to symptoms, it seems some vitamins may have a beneficial role in controlling symptoms.
The vitamins and compounds that show great promise for daily autoimmune support include glutathione spray, omega-3s, zinc, curcumin, magnesium, and vitamin B12. In addition, studies have shown the consumption of vitamin D supplements may lower the overall risk of developing an autoimmune disease, which potentially could be invaluable for women who naturally may suffer from any of the many conditions.
Vitamins and Products for Daily Autoimmune Disease Support
- Theralogix Canabrex – Supplements supplied by Theralogix offer quality ingredients designed to combat inflammation. Theralogix Canabrex contains PEA to promote anti-inflammatory properties, longevity support, and may help ease painful symptoms.
- NOW Foods Vitamin D-3 & K-2 – NOW Foods brand supplements help to deliver quality ingredients for optimal bioavailability. NOW Foods Vitamin D-3 & K-2 supplies valuable nutrients that may combat inflammation and support arterial health as well.
- Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Lemon Softgels – Nordic Naturals offers third-party batch testing to help ensure quality omega-3s in every softgel. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Lemon Softgels supplies omega-3 fatty acids that are derived from anchovies and sardines for a natural way to balance inflammation throughout the body.
- Designs for Health Liposomal Glutathione – This Liposomal Glutathione spray is manufactured by Designs for Health for effective absorption, delivery, and antioxidant protection. Designs for Health Liposomal Glutathione is configured with phospholipid spheres that contain the primary glutathione ingredient for optimal delivery for anti-inflammatory protection.
FAQs
Is eczema an autoimmune disease where a low-inflammation diet can combat symptoms?
While diet and physical activity may play a role in helping to support symptoms of autoimmune diseases, sometimes symptoms of these conditions can make diet and exercise tonight to regulate during a flare. Eczema is an inflammatory process that can certainly be affected by a diet that is low in inflammatory markers.
What is an autoimmune flare?
An autoimmune flare such as chronic inflammation is a situation in which the body experiences an influx of inflammatory compounds that further contribute to the immune response. This type of inflammatory response may occur due to exposure to oxidative stress and other potential risk factors.
Is liposomal glutathione spray fast-acting?
Liposomal glutathione spray is a quickly absorbed option that can help to support anti-inflammatory properties. Adding this when a flare-up occurs or when inflammation is building may help to protect the body from building inflammatory compounds.
If you have questions or concerns about autoimmune disorders or diseases, talk with your healthcare provider to decide the best treatment plan and to find out how to avoid certain potential side effects of taking medications or supplements.
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