Invasion of the Body Snatchers

The medical community first recognized autoimmune disease in the 1950s, and since then, our understanding of these conditions has grown.

“There are more than 80 known autoimmune diseases,” says internal medicine physician Edmond Hakimi, DO. “Autoimmune diseases happen when your immune system, which is supposed to protect your body from harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria, mistakenly attacks healthy cells.”

The result of this misfire, he says, is “chronic inflammation and damage to various tissues and organs in your body,” which can trigger an array of health concerns, like arthritis.

Unlike other diseases caused by external factors, Hakimi notes this immune malfunction “makes autoimmune diseases harder to diagnose, as symptoms can overlap with many other conditions and vary widely from person to person.”

The causes of autoimmune disease

Researchers continue to debate various questions about the underlying causes of autoimmune diseases like lupus and multiple sclerosis.

Most theories boil down to two key factors, according to John Lowe, MD: your genetics and your environment. For example, some autoimmune diseases may be passed down to you from those in your family tree, while exposure to certain types of chemical pollution may trigger an autoimmune reaction. “Genetic triggers cannot be altered, but degenerative factors like exposure to toxic elements, infections, or chronic stress can be avoided with lifestyle changes,” he adds.

“For factors that cannot be influenced by genetics, the focus should be on early diagnosis and management,” says Lowe. “Regular health check-ups, family history, and observance of warning signs may be helpful [for] positive outcome.”

Paying attention to these warning signs, and taking proactive steps to avoid environmental and lifestyle triggers, can help you prevent the development of autoimmune disease. For those of us already living with an autoimmune disease, these same steps may help to manage symptom flare-ups.

Optimize your diet

Being overweight or obese raises your risks, so eating a healthy diet is foundational. Exactly what you eat is key, too. There’s a correlation between inflammation and both the development and the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

“Concentrate on anti-inflammatory foods, including leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds,” recommends Shahinaz Soliman, MD. That’s the focus of diets like the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet, which has been shown to help with inflammation-linked health concerns. “Reduce the intake of processed foods, refined sugar, and trans fats,” says Soliman. She also recommends “foods rich in probiotics such as yogurt and fermented vegetables, as well as prebiotic fibres, which help maintain the gut―an important factor in immune function.”

Sweat it out

Research suggests that regular physical activity can help to both prevent and manage the inflammation linked with autoimmune disease. It may also help tackle common symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as chronic fatigue.

You don’t need to be a gym rat to reap the benefits. If you’re struggling with pain, mobility, or fatigue, Soliman recommends gentle forms of exercise like yoga and tai chi.

Limit toxin exposure

From household cleaners to flame retardants in upholstery, we’re exposed to potentially toxic chemicals on a daily basis. One recent study in the journal Integrative Medicine warns that “persistent organic pollutants, toxic metals, solvents, and endocrine disruptors are now ubiquitous in our food, drinking water, household products, and even in the air we breathe.”

The study specifically calls out mercury, aluminum, pesticides, and dioxin as common culprits, noting that they’re associated with autoimmune concerns because they “induce oxidative stress, T-cell dysregulation, and alterations of immune cell messenger systems.”

Soliman suggests using nontoxic cleaners, avoiding products treated with these chemicals (e.g., choose organic fruits and veggies instead of pesticide-sprayed produce) and keeping the air in your home clean.

When to talk to a doctor

There are some situations where factors are simply out of your hands. But you’re still empowered to take control of your health.

“When it comes to factors like genetics, I focus on what can be controlled,” says Ramit Singh Sambyal, MD. “The goal is to get checked often so that if there are signs of any issues, we address them before they worsen. I always recommend healthy lifestyles―proper diet, exercise and proper rest. These habits may not stop an autoimmune disease altogether, but they assist the body to deal with stressors and stay stronger.”

Hakimi agrees, noting that “regular monitoring can catch early signs if you’re at higher risk due to family history. Blood tests and symptom tracking can make a big difference.”

“While we can’t completely control the development of autoimmune diseases, focusing on a healthy lifestyle and staying proactive with your health can make a significant difference,” Hakimi adds. “If you notice persistent symptoms or have a family history of autoimmune conditions, consult a healthcare provider. Early detection and management are crucial to improving your quality of life.”

This article was originally published in the April 2025 issue of alive magazine.