Let’s get this out of the way first: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for autoimmune disease.
And really, would you expect anything different from us?
When you’re diagnosed with an autoimmune condition—or if you’re unknowingly dealing with symptoms—it’s common to be prescribed medication to manage those symptoms. Medication can certainly play a role in treatment, but it’s rarely the full picture. To truly address autoimmune disease, we need to look deeper and uncover what’s causing your immune system to misfire in the first place.
What Are Autoimmune Diseases?
Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues and organs. There are dozens of these conditions, ranging from relatively mild to severely life-altering. Examples include:
- Arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Because proper testing isn’t always done, some autoimmune conditions go undiagnosed for years. If you suspect an autoimmune condition—or have struggled with unexplained symptoms for a long time—it’s important to dig into the root cause.
Common Root Causes of Autoimmune Disease
Most autoimmune conditions can be traced back to three main factors:
- Genetics
- A compromised gut barrier
- Physical and emotional stress
While we can’t change our genes, we can support gut health and reduce the impact of stress on the body. That’s where holistic care becomes so powerful.
The Connection Between Gut Health and Autoimmune Disease
Did you know that about 70% of your immune system lives in your gut?
That means gut health is one of the most important areas to focus on when managing autoimmune symptoms. By improving the strength and integrity of your gut barrier—and combining this with anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing practices—you may see a noticeable difference in how autoimmune disease shows up in your life.
3 Key Lifestyle Changes to Help Manage Autoimmune Symptoms
1. Avoid inflammatory foods (even the “healthy” ones)
We all know processed foods, fried foods, sugary snacks, and alcohol can contribute to inflammation. But they’re not the only culprits. If you have an undiagnosed allergy or intolerance—even to a seemingly “healthy” food—it can still cause inflammation and make symptoms worse. Getting clarity on your unique sensitivities is essential.
2. Move your body a few times a week
We’ve all heard the advice to get regular exercise—but it really does make a difference. Just 30 minutes of movement a few times per week can help your body produce anti-inflammatory hormones that ease autoimmune symptoms.
That said, overdoing it can have the opposite effect. If you engage in intense workouts regularly, listen to your body and consider adding more rest days or mixing up your routine to reduce physical stress.
3. Find healthy ways to manage mental and emotional stress
Emotional and mental stress can be powerful triggers for autoimmune flares. While stress is part of life, the way we respond to it can either protect or aggravate our health.
Simple daily practices like rest, yoga, meditation, or prayer can help. For some people, deeper work with a counsellor is necessary to process trauma or address long-term mental health challenges.
Need Support for a Possible Autoimmune Condition?
Whether you’ve received a diagnosis or just feel something isn’t quite right, we’re here to help. At Faithfully Guided, we approach autoimmune disease from a whole-person perspective—looking at the body, mind, and spirit.
We start by using advanced functional medicine testing to uncover what’s really going on. From gut health and nervous system regulation to lifestyle stressors and genetics, this gives us a full picture. With that knowledge, we design a personalised plan that supports your body’s natural healing systems.
Ready to take the next step?
Inquire about becoming a client, or book your next appointment through your client portal.
Now Available: Genetic Testing to Understand Your Health Risks
We’re excited to offer the 3X4 Genetics Test and Blueprint Report—a powerful tool for understanding your personal health risks and how to lower them. The report provides tailored recommendations around nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle choices that can influence your genes for the better.
We’ve loved learning more about our own genetics, and how simple shifts in daily life can support long-term wellness.
Available as part of a functional medicine visit | $299
Ask your provider for details.
Back-to-School Health Specials (Valid Through August)
To help you and your family start the school year strong:
Student counselling sessions: $140 (normally $160)
20% off wellness infusions
10% off all services for teachers and educators
Offers cannot be combined.
Join Us for Our 8th Anniversary Celebration!
Friday, September 12 | 10 AM – 12 PM
Celebrate with us at our centre with:
- Brunch and refreshments
- Exclusive founder’s swag bags for the first 50 guests
- Discounted packages
- Same-day IVs at special rates
More details coming soon!
Discover the Benefits of a 50-Minute Functional Medicine Visit
These extended sessions are perfect for:
Personalised health assessments
Thorough symptom review and history
Custom treatment planning
Lifestyle and nutrition guidance
Preventative care and root cause analysis
We’ll continue to offer 30-minute appointments for acute concerns or single-issue visits—but if you’re ready for a deeper dive into your overall wellness, the 50-minute visit is ideal. Begin your health journey.
Wishing you abundance,
Ashlee Seek & Jamie Schofield
Co-Founders & CEOs
Faithfully Guided Health Center
