Diet plays a crucial role in managing autoimmune conditions by reducing inflammation, supporting gut health, and optimizing nutrient intake. At KanodiaMD, our Dietitian is here to support the following key dietary strategies
Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on nutrient-dense foods that help calm the immune system. Certain foods can either promote or reduce inflammation:
Pro-inflammatory foods: Processed foods, refined sugars, trans fats, fried foods, and excessive omega-6 fatty acids can contribute to increased inflammation, potentially aggravating autoimmune conditions.
Certain foods may exacerbate autoimmune symptoms. Common culprits include gluten, dairy, and refined sugars. Some autoimmune conditions, particularly celiac disease and others like Hashimoto’s, can worsen with gluten consumption, and dairy can be a trigger for inflammation and flare-ups.
There is a specific elimination diet called the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet designed to reduce inflammation and symptoms in people with autoimmune diseases. It eliminates foods that are thought to trigger the immune system (such as dairy, grains, legumes, nightshades, and processed foods) and focuses on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods.
Action Step: Consider adopting a gluten, dairy and sugar free diet for 90 days, or following the AIP Diet to identify sensitivities. For a personalized plan, schedule an appointment with our Dietitian.
Many autoimmune diseases are linked to poor gut health. A healthy gut is essential for immune function, as 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. Here is how you can support gut health with food. Include:
Probiotic-Rich Foods: These foods provide “good” bacteria that help balance the gut microbiome and support immune function. Probiotics are found in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt.
Prebiotic-Rich Foods: These are fiber-rich foods that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Foods such as garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas are great sources.
Bone Broth: Rich in collagen and amino acids, bone broth supports gut lining integrity and reduces “leaky gut” syndrome—a condition where harmful particles leak into the bloodstream, triggering immune responses.
Nutrients play a critical role in the immune system and people with autoimmune diseases often face nutrient deficiencies due to both the disease process itself and medication side effects. These deficiencies can worsen symptoms or make it harder for the body to manage inflammation. Focus on:
Vitamin D: Found in fatty fish, egg yolks, grass-fed or pasture-raised proteins and organ meats, and fortified foods.
Omega-3: Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Zinc: Found in oysters, seafood, grass-fed beef and lamb, pumpkin seeds, and legumes.
Magnesium: Food sources include dark leafy greens (spinach, chard), fish, avocado, bananas and figs.
For support on incorporating these dietary recommendations, our Dietitian is ready to help! You can set up an appointment here.
Beyond diet, lifestyle modifications can significantly impact the course of autoimmune diseases. At KanodiaMD, our Dietitian and Health Coaches will help you with the following:
Chronic stress disrupts immune function and can trigger flare-ups. Incorporating stress-reducing practices into your daily routine is essential.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness techniques such as 4-7-8 breathing, guided meditation, or yoga can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Regular meditation helps lower cortisol levels, which can otherwise trigger inflammation.
Journaling: Helps process emotions and identify stressors. The version we find helpful is called Sleep Writing.
Yoga and Tai Chi: Improve flexibility, reduce pain, and enhance mental well-being.
Poor sleep can worsen inflammation and weaken immune regulation.
Tips for Better Sleep:
Wake up naturally without an alarm
Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
Create a dark, cool, and quiet sleep environment.
Avoid screens at least one hour before bed.
If you have a tight neck / shoulders, use a Spoonk Mat.
Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and inflammation. Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can be particularly beneficial for those with autoimmune diseases.
(Change photo for gentle movement i.e. yoga, walking)
Actions to Take:
Use natural cleaning products. Check out the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website.
Avoid plastic containers for food storage. Filter tap water to reduce contaminants.
While diet and lifestyle changes lay the foundation, supplements can provide additional support. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new supplements. Options that we offer at KanodiaMD include:
GI Restore: helps to heal leaky gut / intestinal permeability.
Body Comfort: For chronic inflammation. Contains some Omega 3 Fatty acids.
ADKE Ultra: Boost immune regulation containing 5000iu of Vitamin D with Vitamins A, K, & E. Vitamin K helps with absorption.
Super Omega-3: Triple strength omega-3 fatty Acids with the least amount of omega-6 fatty acids to reduce inflammation, and support brain health.
Probiotic Complete: Probiotics improve gut health and balance the microbiome.
Glutathione Plus: A powerful antioxidant that combats oxidative stress.
To order supplements, you can call our office at 614-524-4527, or contact us here.
At KanodiaMD, we understand that autoimmune diseases are complex and affect each individual differently. Our integrative approach combines functional medicine, advanced diagnostics, and personalized treatment plans to address the root causes of your condition. By focusing on diet, lifestyle, and natural therapies, we aim to help you achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.
A Chef & A Dietitian: Where Delicious Meets Nutritious Webinar | Chef Laura & Lauren, RDN
Sources
Harvard Health Publishing. “The Anti-Inflammatory Diet: A Healthy Choice for Autoimmune Diseases.”
National Institutes of Health (NIH). “The Role of Gut Microbiota in Autoimmune Diseases.”
American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA). “Managing Autoimmune Diseases with Lifestyle Changes.”
Functional Medicine Institute. “Nutrition and Lifestyle Interventions for Autoimmune Disorders.”
Ready to take control of your autoimmune condition? Schedule a consultation with KanodiaMD today to start your journey toward natural healing and better health.
Fax: (614) 524-5829
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