Healthy diet can delay and reverse autoimmune diseases

As the gut is a major site of complex interactions which control immunity, it is the largest interface between an individual and his environment, and therefore, provides the largest exposure for immune building micro-organisms and exposure to toxins and allergens.

This suggests an important role of probiotics and prebiotics in autoimmunity. Scientists have explored the role of prebiotic and probiotic supplementation in young infants to promote good bacteria and concluded that they were beneficial in the prevention of eczema.

Maternal diets during pregnancy and breast feeding too have been found to influence autoimmune processes. Breast feeding is a potentially protective factor for prevention of allergies and celiac disease.

Over the past years, evidence has supported a major role for specific dietary factors including vitamin D, vitamin A, selenium, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, pro-biotics, glutamine (an amino acid) and flavanols (plant chemicals which protect against disease) in autoimmune diseases.

Interestingly, vitamin D has now been associated with increased autoimmunity and increased susceptibility to infections. Association between vitamin D and autoimmune diseases have been confirmed in multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Recent studies also indicate that vitamin A is a potent immuno-regulator and can be instrumental in the prevention of intestinal inflammation and auto-immunity. Supportive function of selenium in health and disease, including autoimmune diseases, is well documented.

Diets high in omega-3 fatty acids — found in fish and flaxseeds — have a role in reducing the risk and treating autoimmune diseases. Further, it has been reported that a combination of omega-3 fatty acids and calorie restriction may be a more effective than omega-3 alone. Trans-fatty acids from commonly used hydrogenated oils and re-used oils and excessive intake of poly-unsaturated fatty acids from refined vegetable oils appear to exacerbate several autoimmune diseases.

Ishi Khosla is a former senior nutritionist at Escorts. She heads the Centre of Dietary Counselling and also runs a health food store. She feels that for complete well-being, one should integrate physical, mental and spiritual health. According to her: “To be healthy should be the ultimate goal for all.”