Autoimmunity and Leaky Gut

Inflamed or leaky?

Modern Medicine’s Poo Poo on Leaky Gut

In the past, doctors attributed certain illnesses to imbalances in the stomach, a condition they called hypochondriasis, derived from the Ancient Greek term for the upper abdomen. With advances in medical science, especially the discovery of bacteria and viruses, this concept was dismissed, and "hypochondriac" began to describe someone with an excessive, unfounded fear of serious illness.

Today, however, the connection between gut health and systemic conditions is being revisited in light of new research. The concept of "leaky gut," where the intestinal lining becomes permeable, allowing toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream, is now being explored as a potential trigger for autoimmune diseases. This modern understanding suggests that imbalances in the gut may indeed play a significant role in the development of certain chronic illnesses, highlighting a more nuanced view of the relationship between gut health and autoimmune disease.

Autoimmunity 101

1. Molecular Mimicry:

• Concept: Molecular mimicry occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies the body’s own tissues as foreign because they share structural similarities with components of the pathogens (e.g., bacteria or viruses) involved in the food poisoning.

• Mechanism: When a person is infected with a pathogen through contaminated food, their immune system generates antibodies to attack and eliminate the pathogen. However, if the proteins on the pathogen are similar to those found in the body’s tissues, these antibodies might also target the body’s own cells, leading to an autoimmune response.

2. Disruption of Gut Barrier Function:

• Leaky Gut Syndrome: In some cases, food poisoning can damage the lining of the intestines, a condition sometimes referred to as "leaky gut." This damage increases intestinal permeability, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and pathogens to enter the bloodstream.

• Immune Activation: The presence of these foreign particles in the bloodstream can trigger an immune response, which may become chronic if the gut barrier function isn’t restored. Over time, this chronic immune activation can lead to an autoimmune reaction.

3. Inflammatory Responses:

• Acute Inflammation: Food poisoning often causes an acute inflammatory response in the gut as the body attempts to fight off the invading pathogens.

• Chronic Inflammation: In some cases, this inflammation may persist even after the infection has cleared, potentially leading to a chronic inflammatory state. Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for the development of autoimmune diseases, as it can cause the immune system to become dysregulated and begin attacking the body's tissues.

4. Specific Pathogens Linked to Autoimmunity:

• Campylobacter jejuni: This bacterium, a common cause of food poisoning, has been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune condition that affects the peripheral nervous system. Molecular mimicry between the bacterial antigens and components of nerve cells is believed to be the cause.

• Yersinia enterocolitica: Infection with this bacterium has been associated with the development of autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease.

• Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli: These bacteria have also been implicated in triggering autoimmune conditions, such as reactive arthritis. The immune response to these infections can sometimes cross-react with joint tissues, leading to inflammation and autoimmune joint disease.

5. Genetic Predisposition:

• Susceptibility: Not everyone who experiences food poisoning will develop an autoimmune disease. Individuals with a genetic predisposition to autoimmunity are more likely to develop these conditions after an infection. Specific genes associated with the immune response can increase the likelihood of the immune system becoming misdirected.

6. Examples of Autoimmune Diseases Linked to Infections:

• Reactive Arthritis: Often develops after infections with bacteria like Salmonella, Shigella, or Campylobacter. Symptoms include joint pain, inflammation, and, sometimes, eye inflammation and urinary issues.

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): Linked to Campylobacter jejuni infection, GBS is a condition where the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Graves’ Disease: These autoimmune thyroid diseases have been associated with infections by Yersinia enterocolitica and other bacteria.

7. Prevention and Management:

• Prompt Treatment: Early and appropriate treatment of food poisoning can reduce the risk of complications that might lead to autoimmune diseases.

• Maintaining Gut Health: After recovering from food poisoning, focusing on gut health—through a balanced diet, probiotics, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics—can help restore the integrity of the intestinal barrier and reduce chronic inflammation.

• Monitoring: Individuals with a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases or those who have had severe food poisoning should be monitored for early signs of autoimmune disorders.

  The Naturopathic Approach: A Holistic Pathway to Healing

  Naturopathic medicine emphasizes treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just alleviating symptoms. For autoimmune diseases, this approach seeks to balance the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health. Here’s how:

  1. Diet and Nutrition: The Foundation of Health

  • Anti-Inflammatory Diet: A cornerstone of naturopathic treatment, the anti-inflammatory diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It avoids processed foods, sugars, and trans fats that can trigger inflammation.

  • Elimination Diet: Identifying and removing potential food sensitivities, such as gluten, dairy, or soy, can help reduce autoimmune flare-ups. This personalized approach tailors your diet to your specific needs.

  • Gut Health: The gut plays a crucial role in immune function. Probiotics, prebiotics, and fermented foods help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which can reduce systemic inflammation and support immune balance.

  • Targeted Supplementation: Nutritional deficiencies can exacerbate autoimmune conditions. Supplements like vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants (vitamins C and E) are commonly used to support immune function and reduce inflammation.

  2. Herbal Medicine: Nature’s Immune Modulators

  • Adaptogenic Herbs: Herbs such as ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil help the body adapt to stress and modulate the immune response.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Herbs: Turmeric (curcumin), ginger, and Boswellia are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that can help alleviate pain and reduce autoimmune activity.

  • Immune Supportive Herbs: Echinacea, reishi mushroom, and astragalus are used to balance the immune system, preventing it from becoming overactive while still defending against pathogens.

  3. Stress Management: The Mind-Body Connection

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises help manage stress, a known trigger for autoimmune flare-ups.

  • Emotional Support: Naturopaths often incorporate counseling or therapy into treatment plans, recognizing the impact of mental health on physical well-being.

• Dr. B's Work Up

  Diagnose: Blood labs for Specific Antibodies, Immune Markers, Blood Clotting Markers, Inflammation Marker, Hormone and Vitamin Testing

  Microbiome Testing: Sample Report

• Possible Treatments

  1. IV Nutrient and Vitamin D Injections

  2. NAD Injections and/or IV Therapy

  3. Ozone Therapy

  4. Diet and Oral supplement protocols

  5. Colon Hydrotherapy

  6. IV IgG for symptom relief

• Diet + Oral Protocols

  Diet Handout: Microbiome Reset Diet
  Oral Protocol: Supplements for Gut Function