Day 51: Autoimmune Diseases
The Commonality of Autoimmune Diseases, John McDougall: Autoimmune Disease Reversed with Plant Based Diet
Welcome to Day 51!
You truly are at an important stage of the Juice Feast, when your body may release some very old matter… so stick with it! Don’t be suprised if you still see some old childhood toys come out before you are done.
The information today is on Autoimmune Diseases. T. Colin Campbell has shown quite conclusively that conventional and processed animal protein is a contributing factor in the development and worsening of these conditions, and conversely, that a plant-based diet can remedy the situation. We offer this file as part of the program to build your arsenal on data on the need for and efficacy of a plant-based diet for healing. Dr. Campbell writes in The China Study:
NO GROUP OF DISEASES is more insidious than autoimmune diseases. They are difficult to treat, and progressive loss of physical and mental function is a common outcome. Unlike heart disease, cancer, obesity and Type 2 diabetes, with autoimmune diseases the body systematically attacks itself. The afflicted patient is almost guaranteed to lose.
A quarter million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with one of the forty separate autoimmune diseases each year. Women are 2.7 times more likely to be afflicted than are men. About 3% of Americans (one in every thirty-one people) have an autoimmune disease, a staggering total of 8.5 million people; some people put the total at as many as 12-13 million people.
The more common of these diseases are listed in the chart below. The first nine comprise 97% of all autoimmune disease cases. The most studied are multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Type 1 diabetes and rheumatic heart disease. These are also the primary autoimmune diseases that have been studied in reference to diet.
THE COMMONALITY OF AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES
What about other autoimmune diseases? There are dozens of autoimmune diseases and I have mentioned only two of the more prominent ones. Can we say anything about autoimmune diseases as a whole?
To answer this question, we need to identify how much these diseases have in common. The more they have in common, the greater the probability that they also will share a common cause (or causes). This is like seeing two people you don’t know, both of whom have a similar body type, hair color, eye color, facial features, physical and vocal mannerisms and age, and concluding that they come from the same parents. Just as we hypothesized that diseases of affluence such as cancer and heart disease have common causes because they share similar geography and similar biochemical biomarkers (chapter four), we can also hypothesize that MS, Type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune diseases may share a similar cause if they exhibit similar characteristics.
First, by definition, each of these diseases involves an immune system that has gone awry in such a way that it attacks “self” proteins that look the same as foreign proteins.
Second, all the autoimmune diseases that have been studied have been found to be more common at the higher geographic latitudes where there is less constant sunshine.
Third, some of these diseases have a tendency to afflict the same people. MS and Type 1 diabetes, for example, have been shown to coexist in the same individuals. Parkinson’s disease, a non-autoimmune disease with autoimmune characteristics, is often found with MS, both within the same geographic regions and within the same individuals. MS also has been associated-either geographically or within the same individuals with other autoimmune diseases like lupus, myasthenia gravis, Graves’ disease and eosinophilic vasculitis. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, another autoimmune disease, has been shown to have an unusually strong association with Hashimoto Thyroiditis.
Fourth, of those diseases studied in relation to nutrition, the consumption of animal-based foods-especially cow’s milk-is associated with greater disease risk.
Fifth, there is evidence that a virus (or viruses) may trigger the onset of several of these diseases.
A sixth and most important characteristic binding together these diseases is the evidence that their “mechanisms of action” have much in common-jargon used to describe the “how to” of disease formation. As we consider common mechanisms of action, we might start with sunlight exposure, because this somehow seems linked to the autoimmune diseases. Sunlight exposure, which decreases with increasing latitude, could be important-but clearly there are other factors. The consumption of animal-based foods, especially cow’s milk, also increases with distance from the equator. In fact, in one of the more extensive studies, cow’s milk was found to be as good of a predictor of MS as latitude (i.e., sunshine). In Dr. Swank’s studies in Norway, MS was less common near the coastal areas of the country where fish intake was more common. This gave rise to the idea that the omega-3 fats common to fish* might have a protective effect. What is almost never mentioned, however, is that dairy consumption (and saturated fat) was much lower in the fish-eating areas. Is it possible that cow’s milk and lack of sunshine are having a similar effect on MS and other autoimmune diseases because they operate through a similar mechanism? This could be very interesting, if true.
On a consistent note, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, M.D., in his book Fasting and Eating for Health, concurs with the Plant-Based approach:
Meat and Other Animal Foods Are Implicated in Autoimmune Illnesses
There is evidence that when peptides from animal proteins are absorbed, they not only can lead to the formation of antibodies against them, but also can cross-react against human proteins in the body. This may be because animal meats have amino acid sequences that are similar to those found in human tissue. Plant proteins are less likely to cause this reaction, even if their peptides pass into the bloodstream, because they bear little resemblance to human proteins.
When the immune system views the animal peptides in the bloodstream and attempts to attack and destroy them, the antibodies created can continue to attack other body tissues later. Because amino acid sequences in human body proteins are similar to those of the animal peptides, these antibodies can attach to and cause a reaction to one’s own tissues.
Please do get this information out there to any friends or colleagues whose loved ones who may be suffering to a greater extent than is necessary. When it comes to healing an autoimmune disease, placing one’s Center of Gravity on a Plant-Based approach is highly prudent.
See you in The Green Room!
Autoimmune Disease: It is a growing epidemic - and no wonder. Dr. Mark Hyman explains how the toxic world in which we live has caused rates of autoimmune diseases to skyrocket. Plus, he gives you the tools you need to address autoimmunity and start feeling better now.
Theme Music: “Mountains Rise Up” · Chris and Johnny Miles and Means ℗ 2014
A Series of Perspectives on Healing Any Autoimmune Disease *** Crohn's, TYPE 2 Diabetes, MS, Lupus, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia!!
Dr. Peter Glidden, Dr. Jerry Tennant, Dr. Joel Wallach, Dr. Robert O. Young ... Healing Autoimmune Disease, Cause of Autoimmune Diseases, Best Treatment for Autoimmune Disease, Autoimmunity Disease, M.S., Hashimotos, Lupus, RA, Neuropathy, Fibromyalgia, Ataxia New Breakthroughs in Autoimmune Disease
John McDougall MD interviews Sabrina Nelson about how changing to a low-fat plant-based diet put her rare auto-immune disease (relapsing polychondritis) into remission (interview from 2004). This is the same diet change which has put arthritis, Lupus and other diseases into remission.
Water Fasting and Autoimmune Disease. Those effected by an Autoimmune Disease can benefit from a physician supervised water fast. Dr. Asa Frey lectures over how a water fast can have a dramatic effect on autoimmune conditions. Successful cases are discussed.
Juicy Tips: Surfing the Wave of Boredom
You may be entering the Juice Feasting stage of Boredom. (The Stages written by David Rainoshek are: Excitement, Cleanse/Detox, Euphoria, Boredom, Solidity, Freedom).
If that is the case, ride it out - it is okay. It just means that you are getting very experienced with Juice Feasting, insights into Live Food Nutrition, while still incredibly deep, are becoming commonplace daily occurrences. Even miracles coming into your life and the new blessings in your life may seem part of the everyday.
Take stock of your journey thus far. Write more goals, and reflect on those goals which are manifesting or have already done so. Recognize that the in next stage (or wave or spiral) of the journey you will move into a place of greater Solidity. Begin watering that seed of solidity in yourself now, through Juice Feasting as an Act of Love for yourself, your family, and all beings. Continue to educate yourself about Plant-Based Live Food Nutrition so that you are more well-grounded in your knowledge about this amazing Life Practice.
Finally, you might add some new teas into your Juice Feasting program, such as astragalus, burdock, dandelion, roobios, chamomile, etc. You might also consider adding in ginseng as an adaptogenic herb that is considered the King in the Chinese herbal pantheon for the last 5,000 years. Check out Ron Teegarden's site at: www.DragonHerbs.com.
Ken Berry, M.D. Hashimoto's Thyroiditis is poorly understood by many people, and most doctors; here are 5 things you need to know. Many, many people suffer from this autoimmune conditions for years because their doctor doesn't know how to diagnose it.
Today’s Downloads
autoimmune diseases
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
Autoimmune Diseases is a large topic, and the resources in this file handle well the discussion of dietary causes, and dietary paths to removing the underlying causes and healing. This is an important and compelling read, and futher supports the imperative for placing your Center of Gravity on a Plant-Based Diet. B-12 deficiency is a huge element in Autoimmune Diseases, so do make sure to check that out!
Glutathione
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
From Day 21, but VERY important to remember in terms of Autoimmune Diseases. Your life depends on glutathione. Without it, your liver would shrivel up and die from the overwhelming accumulation of toxins, your cells would disintegrate from unrestrained oxidative stress and, as if you needed more problems, your body would have little resistance to bacteria, viruses or cancers. So many protective systems of the body, including its use of vitamins C and E, depend heavily upon this remarkable molecule.
Glutathione’s importance to your health cannot be overstated. Your immune system is constantly on the prowl for pathogens – agents of cellular damage, toxicity and disease. To neutralize them the body needs a ready supply of glutathione.
Research is currently exploring the potential benefits of glutathione for several conditions including cancer, heart disease, memory loss, osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease, cornea disorders, kidney dysfunction, eczema, liver disorders, poisoning by heavy metals, and immunodepression that occurs in diseases such as AIDS.
multiple sclerosis
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
A live Food, Nutrient-Dense, Integrated approach to MS.
File Contents:
FASTING AND MS – HERBERT M. SHELTON - LION’S MANE MUSHROOM - MS INFORMATION: SHIRLEY’S WELLNESS CAFÉ - URINE THERAPY AND MS - EPIDEMIC OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND SYSTEMIC LUPUS RELATED TO ASPARTAME - MONTEL WILLIAMS - MONTEL WILLIAMS ON MS, LEGALIZING MARIJUANA AND 15 YEARS OF MAKING TELEVISION HISTORY
cystic fibrosis
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
A study and file I did for a family friend has become a part of the Juice Feasting Program. Please pass along to anyone who has a loved one with CF. There may be some goodies in here that can help immensely. Be sure to check out the breathwork / oxygen research in this file.
Magnesium
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
Magnesium, the relaxer mineral, is one of the most important minerals for overall health. Magnesium is important for all muscles, heart function, and the digestive system. Magnesium deficiency is associated with a chronic stress state and decreased adrenaline function. More than 80 percent of the population is deficient in magnesium. Magnesium is very important in the treatment of all people with chronic exhaustion, adrenal exhaustion, and depression. It is very important for the optimization of neurotransmitter function.
Almost everyone in North America is deficient in magnesium. This is particularly true with people who are experiencing tension, anxiety, adrenal exhaustion, chronic fatigue, constipation, and muscle spasm. Magnesium is very good for muscle cramps and spasm, particularly when people are fasting. Magnesium activates many enzyme systems and is involved in neurotransmitter production. It helps regulate temperature control in the body It is needed for synthesis in protein. Magnesium is used by the pituitary gland as part of its regulation of parathyroid, adrenal, and thyroid function. It is a key enzymatic mineral used in almost 100 different enzyme systems in the Krebs cycle of making energy in the mitochondria of our cells.
iodine
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
Iodine is detected in every organ and tissue in the body. It is found in high levels in the thyroid, breast, stomach, saliva, ovaries, liver, lung, heart, and adrenals. It is essential in pregnancy. Iodine is essential for the heart. The thyroid hormones (which are molecules containing iodine) have major effects on the heart and circulatory system. Read on!!!
Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda)
THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT FILES ON THE JUICE FEASTING PROGRAM, reposted to remind you just how applicable it is to multiple conditions – even Autoimmune Diseases. Understanding the health applications and implications of sodium bicarbonate (such as Arm and Hammer Baking Soda) cannot be underestimated in its importance for you and everyone you know. Please, please familiarize yourself with this file and topic if you have not done so already. This information is from the excellent work done by Drs. Tullio Simoncini and Mark Sircus. I highly recommend acquiring Dr. Mark Sircus’ book, Sodium Bicarbonate: Rich Man’s Poor Man’s Cancer Treatment. Enjoy the file. This will benefit you and your friends and loved ones for the rest of your life.
vitamin b-12 exposed - the Webinar
by David Rainoshek, M.A.
Re-posed from Juice Feasting Day 17…. Low B-12 plays a major role in the development of Autoimmune Diseases, and is essential for proper management and healing of autoimmune disorders.
Over 80% of westerners are deficient in Vitamin B-12, and if you have been eating a Vegan or Raw/Vegan diet for more than 3-6 months without proper B-12 supplementation, you are almost certainly among those who are deficient. No screwing around here. Low Vegan and Raw/Live Vegan levels is what the data shows, and is what the Vegan and Raw/Vegan community has found over the last 40+ years. You can’t get human-active B-12 from plants. If you could, Dr. Cousens and every other Raw/Live Vegan advocate would be shouting from the rooftops. Hence, the need for proper supplementation.
This is such an important nutrient I did a free webinar on it.
The book I have for you today was the product of years of research, and several months of nonstop, solo writing and re-writing I did in 2011. I poured my heart and mind into presenting this topic in as clear and accessible a format as possible.
Vitamin B12 plays a key role in the body and is also associated with lower levels of homocysteine in the blood. It is required for energy production and overall health of the body, including red blood cell formation. Other roles of B12 include proper nervous system development and prevention of infertility in men. It has also been shown to improve memory and promote heart health. Lack of sufficient amounts of vitamin B12 can create a deficiency or absorption problems that can lead to pernicious anemia. Research has shown that vitamin B12 levels decline as we age. This may be due to poorer food choices, reduced intake of B12 or poor absorption.
Great Books
By Amy Myers, M.D.
Over 90 percent of the population suffers from inflammation or an autoimmune disorder. Until now, conventional medicine has said there is no cure. Minor irritations like rashes and runny noses are ignored, while chronic and debilitating diseases like Crohn's and rheumatoid arthritis are handled with a cocktail of toxic treatments that fail to address their root cause. But it doesn't have to be this way.
In The Autoimmune Solution, Dr. Amy Myers, a renowned leader in functional medicine, offers her medically proven approach to prevent a wide range of inflammatory-related symptoms and diseases, including allergies, obesity, asthma, cardiovascular disease, fibromyalgia, lupus, IBS, chronic headaches, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
By Tom O’Bryan and Mark Hyman, M.D.
Do you have crud in the blood?
Millions of people suffer from autoimmunity whether they know it or not. The root cause of most weight gain, brain and mood problems, and fatigue, autoimmunity can take years—or even decades—for symptoms and a clear diagnosis to arise. Through years of research, Dr. Tom O’Bryan has discovered that autoimmunity is actually a spectrum, and many people experiencing general malaise are already on it. And while autoimmune diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, osteoporosis, diabetes, and lupus, have become the third leading cause of death behind heart disease and cancer, many people affected are left in the dark.
The good news is that many autoimmune conditions can be reversed through a targeted protocol designed to heal the autoimmune system, 70 percent of which is located in the gut. The Autoimmune Fixincludes two comprehensive 3-week plans: In the first 3 weeks, you’ll follow a Paleo-inspired diet during which you cut out gluten, sweets, and dairy—the three primary culprits behind autoimmunity. Once the dietary changes have been addressed, The Autoimmune Fix focuses on the other causes of autoimmunity such as genetics, other dietary issues, and microbiome. The Autoimmune Fix provides a practical and much-needed guide to navigating these increasingly common conditions to help you feel better and develop a plan that works for you.
By Dr. Terry Wahls, M.D.
An integrative approach to healing chronic autoimmune conditions by a doctor, researcher, and sufferer of progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) whose TEDx talk is already a web sensation
Like many physicians, Dr. Terry Wahls focused on treating her patients’ ailments with drugs or surgical procedures—until she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2000. Within three years, her back and stomach muscles had weakened to the point where she needed a tilt-recline wheelchair. Conventional medical treatments were failing her, and she feared that she would be bedridden for the rest of her life.
Dr. Wahls began studying the latest research on autoimmune disease and brain biology, and decided to get her vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids from the food she ate rather than pills and supplements. Dr. Wahls adopted the nutrient-rich paleo diet, gradually refining and integrating it into a regimen of neuromuscular stimulation. First, she walked slowly, then steadily, and then she biked eighteen miles in a single day. In November 2011, Dr. Wahls shared her remarkable recovery in a TEDx talk that immediately went viral. Now, in The Wahls Protocol, she shares the details of the protocol that allowed her to reverse many of her symptoms, get back to her life, and embark on a new mission: to share the Wahls Protocol with others suffering from the ravages of multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune conditions.
By Donna Jackson Nakazawa
“The Autoimmune Epidemic by Donna Jackson Nakazawa is an astounding book….It is the kind of book that will rivet you and scare you. It will make you angry. It will amaze you with the courage of some of the people described in the book…The Autoimmune Epidemic is every bit as compelling as Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle…It is also every bit as necessary as An Inconvenient Truth….
You will leave this book with no reservations about the veracity of the conclusions: put simply, there is no doubt that autoimmune diseases are on the rise and increasing environmental exposures of toxins and chemicals is fueling this rise. The research is sound. The conclusions unassailable….
Reading The Autoimmune Epidemic is a necessary first step. Reading The Autoimmune Epidemic is a life-altering event. It needs to be.”
By Susan Blum, MD
Are you constantly exhausted?
• Do you frequently feel sick?
• Are you hot when others are cold, or cold when everyone else is warm?
• Do you have trouble thinking clearly, aka “brain fog”?
• Do you often feel irritable?
• Are you experiencing hair loss, dry skin, or unexplained weight fluctuation?
• Do your joints ache or swell but you don’t know why?
• Do you have an overall sense of not feeling your best, but it has been going on so long it’s actually normal to you?
IF you answered yes to any of these questions, you may have an autoimmune disease, and this book is the “medicine” you need. Among the most prevalent forms of chronic illness in this country, autoimmune disease affects nearly 23.5 million Americans. This epidemic—a result of the toxins in our diet; exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, and antibiotics; and unprecedented stress levels—has caused millions to suffer from autoimmune conditions such as Graves’ disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, lupus, and more. In The Immune System Recovery Plan, Dr. Susan Blum, one of the most sought-after experts in the field of functional medicine, shares the four-step program she used to treat her own serious autoimmune condition and help countless patients reverse their symptoms, heal their immune systems, and prevent future illness.
DR. BLUM’S INNOVATIVE METHOD FOCUSES ON:
• Using food as medicine
• Understanding the stress connection
• Healing your gut and digestive system
• Optimizing liver function
Each of these sections includes an interactive workbook to help you determine and create your own personal treatment program. Also included are recipes for simple, easy-to-prepare dishes to jump-start the healing process.
The Immune System Recovery Plan is a revolutionary way for people to balance their immune systems, transform their health, and live fuller, happier lives.
By Stacey-Lynn Becker
Having been in immaculate physical shape and a body builder, Heidi had been at a loss – for 10 years – as to what to do to reclaim her health. Heidi began her healing protocol after a fluke encounter, that finally led her to her answer.
The solution she used promotes natural healing at the SOURCE of the problem. With the right autoimmune protocol, you can QUICKLY begin to reduce painful symptoms from lupus, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, arthritis, and other A.I. disease.
Within 4 Months – Heidi Reversed Her Symptoms
TOPICS Include:
Top Supplements for Healing Lupus and Autoimmune Disease
Overview – a Multi-Disciplined Approach Myself and Others Used to Heal
Lupus and Pregnancy - What to Know and Do if You are Considering Having a Baby
An Eastern Healing Practice to Reduce Inflammation and Boost Energy
A CAUSAL LINK TO AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE – Could This Be Causing or Worsening Your Symptoms?
Healthy Food Substitutes - in Place of Unhealthy Ones!
PLUS - Anti-Inflammatory Recipes with Delicious Side-Dish Favourites
By Meir Schneider
Born blind and declared incurable after a series of childhood operations, Meir Schneider remained convinced that his disability was not permanent. As a teenager he began to work with teachers who gave him exercises to reverse his blindness. Within four years he gained a remarkable degree of vision, and began developing a system of therapeutic exercise combining movement, breathing, and mental imagery. When he began working with others, miraculous recoveries occurred.
The book gives specific guidelines for back problems, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, breathing ailments, eye problems, and muscular dystrophy. Movement for Self-Healing parallels the stories of Schneider and the people he has worked with, detailing his holistic methods of stimulating the natural healing powers of the body, offering a practical guide to specific exercises, and articulating a profound message of inspiration and hope.
Media, Films, & Documentaries
Minding your Mitochondria | TEDxIowaCity | Dr. Terry Wahls (A Must-See!)
Dr. Terry Wahls presented at TEDxIowaCity. She talks about learning how to properly fuel her body, and using the lessons she learned at the subcellular level, she used diet to cure her MS and get out of her wheelchair. Find out more at https://terrywahls.com/start/
5 Strategies to Reverse Hashimoto's! | FB Live | Dr. Amy Myers, M.D.
5 strategies to reverse Hashimoto's! Find out how to beat your symptoms and take back your life using simple, proven lifestyle changes! For a complete plan to jumpstart your thyroid, check out The Thyroid Connection: http://amzn.to/2rXLUlV
Introduction to the IMMUNE SYSTEM RECOVERY PLAN by Susan Blum, MD, MPH In her new book, THE IMMUNE SYSTEM RECOVERY PLAN, Dr. Susan Blum lays out a clear plan to recovery for the millions of people needlessly suffering from autoimmune disease, and a clear path to optimal immune function for those interested in improving immune health for any reason.
The Proven 4-Step Plan...
One of the most sought-after experts in the field of Functional Medicine, Dr. Blum shares the four-step program she used to treat her own serious autoimmune condition and help countless patients reverse their symptoms, heal their immune systems, and prevent future illness. Dr. Blum's innovative method focuses on:
• Using food as medicine
• Understanding the stress connection
• Healing your gut
• Supporting your liver
A Book of Hope and Healing...
THE IMMUNE SYSTEM RECOVERY PLAN shows readers how the immune system works and offers an easy to follow 4-Step program so that you can:
• Reverse symptoms
• Reduce antibodies
• Cure the cause of disease
• Improve immune function
THE IMMUNE SYSTEM RECOVERY PLAN will teach YOU how to create your own personalized treatment plan with:
• An interactive workbook of checklists and questionnaires
• 40 delicious and nutritious recipes to jump start the healing process
THE IMMUNE SYSTEM RECOVERY PLAN is a groundbreaking book providing a revolutionary way for people to balance their immune systems, transform their health, and live fuller, happier lives.