DR. WALKER

Vitamin D and Autoimmune Disorders

What are autoimmune disorders?

An autoimmune disorder is a disorder of the immune system, where the immune system starts malfunctioning to the point where it can not tell the difference between what is healthy and what is not. It starts attacking its own body’s healthy cells instead of protecting them. There are several types of autoimmune disorders all with several factors involved in their development. About 23.5 million Americans are said to have an autoimmune disease, and about 80% of this figure occurs in women.

What kind of treatment options are there?

Depending upon your type of disease and your unique situation, you may be subjected to either one or more of the following treatment options (Autoimmune disorders, n.d.):

1. Painkillers
2. Immunosuppressants
3. Anti-inflammatory drugs
4. Physical therapy
5. Surgery
6. Treatment for deficiency of any kind
7. Intermittent Fasting: studies conducted on mice reported a decrease in the severity of autoimmune diseases when they were put through intermittent fasting (Bhandari, n.d.).

Should I avoid lectins if I have an autoimmune disease?

Lectins are plant-derived proteins used as a defense mechanisms for the plant. Studies suggest that lectins bring about autoimmune responses and is a common source of chronic inflammation. Lectins are hidden causes of health problems and are generally considered toxic to our cells and nerves. Lectin-containing foods like red beans and garbanza beans should be soaked in water for several hours and then properly boiled to lower their lectin content prior to consumption (Lectins, n.d.).

Does vitamin D help with controlling autoimmune disorders?

Researchers have known that nearly every cell in the human body possesses vitamin D receptors. One study conducted on participants over a period of five years, in which they were provided with vitamin D and omega 3 supplements, reported that it significantly lowered the risk of development of autoimmune diseases (Bridger, 2022). Another study suggested that individuals who consume more vitamin D are less likely to develop type 1 diabetes. Yet another study revealed that the risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis increased as vitamin D intake decreased. It is important to remember however that these supplements should be taken over a longer duration, more than 2 years at least, to observe many of these benefit. Vitamin D toxicity is unlikely at daily intakes up to 10,000 IU but please get levels checked in 2 to 3 months, after commencing, to confirm adequate vitamin D levels.

References:

Autoimmune disorders. (n.d.). Retrieved from Better Health Channel:
Bhandari, D. P. (n.d.). Intermittent Fasting to Reduce Autoimmunity. Retrieved from Advanced Health:
Bridger, H. (2022, January 26). Vitamin D supplements lower risk of autoimmune disease, researchers say. Retrieved from The Harvard Gazette:
Lectins. (n.d.). Retrieved from Harvard School of Public Health: