From the Guidelines
A Mediterranean-style diet has been found to be linked with a lower risk of developing autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, and may help manage symptoms alongside conventional treatment. This is due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the foods in this type of diet, as suggested by a recent study published in 2024 1. Certain lifestyle modifications, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory diets like the Mediterranean diet or autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet
- Vitamin D supplementation (typically 1000-2000 IU daily)
- Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil (1-2 grams daily)
- Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques
- Regular moderate exercise
- Adequate sleep (7-9 hours nightly)
- Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. Probiotics may also help some individuals by supporting gut health, which is closely linked to immune function, as discussed in a study on gut health and autoimmune diseases 1. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements or making significant dietary changes, as some natural remedies can interact with medications or be contraindicated for certain conditions.
While other natural remedies, such as curcumin, have been studied for their potential benefits in autoimmune diseases, the evidence is limited by small study sizes and lack of dose-finding efficacy studies, as noted in a 2019 review on the management of mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis 1. Therefore, a Mediterranean-style diet is currently the most recommended natural approach to help manage autoimmune disease symptoms, due to its well-documented anti-inflammatory properties and potential to support immune regulation.
From the Research
Natural Substances for Autoimmune Disease Management
- Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial in managing autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis 2, 3, 4.
- A healthy balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids is important for modulating inflammation and immunity 2.
- Vitamin D supplementation has also been found to reduce the risk of autoimmune disease by 22% 5.
- A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts, and poor in sugar-sweetened beverages, red and processed meat, and trans fats, may also be beneficial in managing rheumatoid arthritis 6.
Mechanisms of Action
- Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce proinflammatory cytokine release and have inhibitory effects on immune cells 2, 3.
- Eicosanoids derived from Omega-6 fatty acids participate in the inflammatory process, while Omega-3 fatty acids have the opposite effect 2.
- Vitamin D has been found to have immunomodulatory effects and may reduce the risk of autoimmune disease 5.