Autoimmune Diseases in Women: Causes, Symptoms & Natural Support

Introduction:

Autoimmune diseases are a growing issue in our society, affecting millions of people worldwide, with women making up nearly 80% of cases.

These diseases are caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells or tissues in the body. While anyone can develop an autoimmune disease, it is well-established that women are more susceptible to these conditions.

Conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus can impact daily life—but the right lifestyle and diet can help reduce symptoms and support long-term health.

In this blog post, we will be discussing:

Why women are at higher risk

• The most common autoimmune diseases
• Symptoms to watch for
• How stress, diet, and gut health impact autoimmune conditions and can play an essential role in managing these conditions.

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Why Women Are More at Risk of Autoimmune Diseases:

Research has shown that women are more susceptible to autoimmune diseases due to hormonal, genetic and environmental factors.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Oestrogen (plus fluctuations) influences immune function, making conditions like lupus and Hashimoto’s more common during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause.

Genetic Factors

Women have two X chromosomes, which carry many immune-related genes. This increases the likelihood of developing an autoimmune response.

Environmental Triggers

Toxins, stress, and infections can activate the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease development.

Common Autoimmune Diseases in Women

There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases, and many of them disproportionately affect women. Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include:

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis - – Fatigue, weight gain, and brain fog
• Multiple sclerosis - – Weakness and coordination problems
• Coeliac disease - Gluten intolerance causing gut damage
• Rheumatoid arthritis - Joint pain and stiffness
• Systemic lupus erythematosus - Affects skin, joints, and organs
• Inflammatory bowel disease - Chronic digestive issues
• Sjögren's syndrome - Dry eyes and mouth

Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases

Depending on the type of autoimmune disease, affected individuals may experience a wide range of symptoms. Some common symptoms include:

• Fatigue & Brain Fog – The immune system’s overactivity drains energy.
• Digestive Issues – Bloating, diarrhea, or constipation (common in IBD & Coeliac Disease).
• Joint Pain & Stiffness – Seen in RA and lupus.
• Hair Loss & Skin Rashes – Common in Hashimoto’s, lupus, dermatitis herpetiformis, and psoriasis.
• Mood Changes – Autoimmune diseases can contribute to anxiety and depression.
• Muscle Weakness – Common in MS, myasthenia gravis, and Hashimoto’s; can cause difficulty with movement, coordination, and daily tasks.

How Lifestyle, Diet & Gut Health Affect Autoimmune Conditions

While effective medications for autoimmune diseases exist, lifestyle modifications can play an important role in managing autoimmune disease symptoms.

Lifestyle: Reduce Stress & Prioritise Sleep

Chronic stress worsens autoimmune symptoms by increasing inflammation. Stress can be managed through:

• Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) – Regulates the nervous system
• Yoga & Meditation – Reduce cortisol levels
• Daily Movement – Supports joint and immune health
• Better Sleep Habits – Aim for 7-9 hours a night

Diet: The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet

An autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet is a special dietary approach that involves removing foods that are likely to trigger an immune response and increase inflammation in the body to help manage autoimmune symptoms. The AIP diet is similar to the paleo diet and emphasises the consumption of natural and unprocessed foods, free from additives, chemicals, or refined sugar. 

The AIP diet has been found to improve inflammation and autoimmune symptoms in many people within a short period. It is essential to work with a practitioner in developing an AIP diet plan to ensure long-term success in managing autoimmune symptoms.

The AIP diet removes inflammatory foods and emphasizes nutrient-dense, whole foods.

Avoid: Gluten, dairy, grains, processed foods, and sugar
Eat: Wild-caught fish, bone broth, organ meats, and fresh vegetables

Research shows that for some people, following AIP for just 6 weeks can reduce autoimmune symptoms.

Gut Health: A Key Player in Autoimmunity

Since 70% of the immune system is in the gut, improving gut health is critical.

Researchers have found that the gut microbiome balances immune function. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, an individual can help reprogram the immune system and alleviate autoimmune symptoms such as inflammation.

You can eat a diet rich in pre and probiotics to enhance gut health, including:

• Eat fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha)
• Include prebiotic-rich foods (asparagus, garlic, onions)
• Consume high-quality probiotic supplements
• Work with a practitioner to test for gut infections or leaky gut

Conclusion:

Autoimmune diseases can be challenging to live with, but managing stress, diet, and gut health can help reduce symptoms and inflammation.

While there is no cure for autoimmune diseases, taking care of oneself is essential to keeping symptoms under control. Individuals who experience symptoms should seek medical attention and work with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. By doing so, individuals can improve their overall health and quality of life.

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The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Toki Birch. Toki Birch encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.