Autoimmunity & Immune Dysregulation

TAMING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

The immune system is our body's natural defence mechanism, designed to protect us from infections, toxins, and other harmful agents. However, in recent years, immune dysfunction has become increasingly common, with many people experiencing autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation, and heightened susceptibility to infections. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated this issue, leaving many wondering why our immune systems seem more fragile than ever.

A Vitamix blender filled with various green vegetables including spinach and kale, placed on a kitchen counter surrounded by fresh produce such as bell peppers, asparagus, lettuce, and a grapefruit. Pom nutition Emma Davies Functional Medicine

Autoimmune diseases are increasing, affecting millions as the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, causing inflammation and organ dysfunction.

COVID-19 has been linked to new autoimmune cases, potentially triggering conditions like Hashimoto’s, Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, and Psoriasis. Understanding autoimmunity and using nutrition and lifestyle strategies can help manage symptoms and support remission.

We are also seeing viral reactivation increasing. With dormant viruses like Epstein-Barr (EBV) and Herpes reactivating when immunity weakens. Many Long COVID sufferers report symptoms linked to these reactivations.

Silhouette of a branch with pomegranates, leaves, and flowers.

I'm here to guide you towards sustainable remission or symptom improvement by addressing potential triggers & mediating factors in your condition.

Enquire Now
Black line drawing of two virus particles, one larger and one smaller, with circular shapes and protruding spikes.

Other factors contributing to autoimmune conditions…

  • The modern diet, high in refined sugars, processed foods, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives, promotes inflammation and gut dysfunction, which can trigger autoimmune responses.

  • A disrupted gut microbiome and increased intestinal permeability allow toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering immune system overactivation.

  • Long-term stress impacts immune function and increases inflammation, making the body more susceptible to autoimmune reactions or poor recovery.

  • Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, air pollution, and household chemicals can disrupt immune function and increase the risk of autoimmunity or long-term fatigue.

  • Certain infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Lyme disease, and chronic viral infections, are linked to the development of autoimmune diseases as well as commonly causing Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS).

  • Deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin D, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, for example, can weaken immune regulation.

  • Frequent antibiotic use disrupts the gut microbiome, while medications like NSAIDs, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and certain vaccines may contribute to immune dysregulation in susceptible individuals.

Black line drawing of two virus or bacteria particles, one larger and one smaller, with spike-like projections around the edges.

Other factors contributing to autoimmune conditions…

  • The modern diet, high in refined sugars, processed foods, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives, promotes inflammation and gut dysfunction, which can trigger autoimmune responses.

  • A disrupted gut microbiome and increased intestinal permeability allow toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering immune system overactivation.

  • Long-term stress impacts immune function and increases inflammation, making the body more susceptible to autoimmune reactions or poor recovery.

  • Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, air pollution, and household chemicals can disrupt immune function and increase the risk of autoimmunity or long-term fatigue.

  • Certain infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Lyme disease, and chronic viral infections, are linked to the development of autoimmune diseases as well as commonly causing Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS).

  • Deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin D, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, for example, can weaken immune regulation.

  • Frequent antibiotic use disrupts the gut microbiome, while medications like NSAIDs, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and certain vaccines may contribute to immune dysregulation in susceptible individuals.

The Gut-Immune Connection in Autoimmune Disease

GUT HEALTH

Research highlights the strong connection between gut health and autoimmunity. Since approximately 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, imbalances in gut bacteria and intestinal permeability play a crucial role in triggering and sustaining autoimmune diseases.

Healing the gut is often a critical first step in managing autoimmune symptoms and supporting remission.

While autoimmune conditions can be difficult to treat, good symptom management and even remission is possible through targeted nutrition and lifestyle changes.

Black line drawing of two virus particles, one larger and one smaller, representing COVID-19.

Autoimmune diseases can affect nearly every system in the body. Some of the most common conditions include…

  • Fatigue, weight gain, hair thinning, cold sensitivity, brain fog, and depression.

  • Joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue.

  • Joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and kidney complications.

  • Muscle weakness, tingling, vision problems, and mobility issues.

  • High blood sugar, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unintended weight loss.

  • Red scaly skin patches and joint pain.

  • Digestive distress, bloating, nutrient malabsorption, and neurological symptoms, weight loss.

  • Includes Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, which cause chronic gut inflammation, pain and digestive distress.

Illustration of two coronavirus particles, one larger and one smaller, with spike proteins.

Autoimmune diseases can affect nearly every system in the body. Some of the most common conditions include…

  • Fatigue, weight gain, hair thinning, cold sensitivity, brain fog, and depression.

  • Joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue.

  • Joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and kidney complications.

  • Muscle weakness, tingling, vision problems, and mobility issues.

  • High blood sugar, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and unintended weight loss.

  • Red scaly skin patches and joint pain.

  • Digestive distress, bloating, nutrient malabsorption, and neurological symptoms, weight loss.

  • Includes Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, which cause chronic gut inflammation, pain and digestive distress.

TREATMENT & DIAGNOSIS

Functional Testing - Personalised Results

Functional testing provides in-depth insights into your body’s systems, helping identify imbalances or dysfunctions that may be contributing ill health.

By uncovering the root causes, it allows for personalised, targeted treatment to restore you to optimal health.

There are a broad range of functional tests available, please enquire directly to find the test for you.

Learn More
A woman with gray hair sitting at a table, recording a video call on her phone mounted on a tripod, with a laptop, notebook, pen, and glass of water nearby. Pom nutition Emma Davies Functional Medicine

EXPERT IMMUNITY ADVICE

At Pom Nutrition, I am here to help guide towards sustainable autoimmune remission or improved immune function. Together we can discuss your symptoms, refer for testing and create a tailored plan for nutritional and lifestyle improvements.

How I can help

Enquire Now