to start, since we make this decision 2-5 times a day. Figuring out one’s food sensi- tivities is important so these foods can be avoided. Working with a qualified practitio- ner, a patient may do a food elimination pro- tocol with re-introduction or get objective information from a blood test. Elimination is more important than supplementation, but a nutraceutical protocol aimed at anti-inflam- matory support and rebuilding the intestinal wall is indicated. The Autoimmune Protocol Diet (AIP) is gaining traction for management of AI diseases, which restricts several major food groups: grains, dairy, eggs, nightshade vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and more.


Promoting a healthy microbiome is


necessary. An anti-inflammatory diet will promote this by eliminating processed foods. Physical activity is one of the best things you can do to make positive shifts in your micro- biome. Probiotic supplementation supports a healthy microbiome as well.


There are immune modulating nutra- ceuticals with a growing body of research to support them. For example, Echinacea spp. is an ancient plant medicine that recently was considered as an immune-stimulant. The mechanism of immune stimulation would not be good for AI disease, and some warn against using Echinacea for AI disease. How- ever, there is no evidence that echinacea worsens AI disease, in fact physicians a few generations back were using Echinacea to manage Rheumatism.


If you have an AI disease, then you


may be managed on a steroid medication or a biologic immunotherapy. Naturopathic medicine can complement these medica- tions and serve as a palliative treatment to the potential side effects. For example, ste- roid medications deplete magnesium, thus it is wise to monitor serum magnesium levels and be keen to symptoms of magnesium de- ficiency. Another wise choice, for everyone, is to avoid getting vaccinations around a time of a cold or infection as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Pre- vention (CDC).


There is no cure for AI diseases, howev- er Naturopathic medicine does a promising job to reduce the burden of the diagnosis. I suggest finding the right care team and wel- come lifestyle changes for the best.


Dr. Nick Edgerton is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist at Collaborative Natural Health Partners in Manchester, CT. He is an in-network provider with most ma- jor health insurance companies. Please call 860-533-0179 for an appointment. See ad on page 35.


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