Antibodies in Graves’ disease explained
Since Graves’ disease is an autoimmune issue, let’s look at what is happening with the immune system and it’s antibodies.
The immune system can raise levels of antibodies in an attempt to protect the body from danger (like toxins found in a poor food supply or within the environment).
These antibodies act like the soldiers of the body fighting against anything in the body that seems unusual or dangerous.
In people with Graves’ disease antibodies cause the thyroid gland to produce excess thyroid hormones above and beyond what is necessary and healthy.
Inflammation and Allergens in Graves disease
Inflammation can partially be traced to an unhealthy gut “microbiota” that is caused by nutrient deficiencies, food allergies or sensitivities, which all raise autoimmune activity.
Allergens can contribute to leaky gut syndrome, in which small particles leak out into the bloodstream through tiny openings in the gut lining, triggering autoimmunity.
Graves’ disease is seven to eight times more common in women than men, especially women between ages 30 and 60.
How our naturopaths at Your Wellness Centre, Ringwood help Graves disease.
- Once thyroid antibody levels have been tested, our primary goal of controlling Graves’ disease is to:
- Stop the overproduction of thyroid hormones which helps lower Graves’ symptoms, including trouble sleeping, weight loss, eye bulging and personality changes.
- Manage stress. We regard this as one of the most important ways to fight autoimmune disorders, since some studies find that up to 80 percent of patients who develop autoimmune disorders classify themselves as having suffered from high amounts of stress!
- Reduce inflammation. Doing this is one of the best ways to enhance immune function, create a healthy gut environment and manage your autoimmune symptoms.
- A well-rounded diet. We make sure that your diet is filled with anti-inflammatory foods and free from toxin overload. This helps resolve bacterial imbalances in the gut that make symptoms worse.If the levels are too high, your thyroid naturopath might recommend a blend of traditional calming herbs that help you to manage your symptoms and slow down the production of the hormones that increase your metabolism too much.
Our thyroid naturopath is also a qualified pharmacist so if you are currently on a prescribed medication from your G.P, don’t worry we can still help you.
