Paleo Diet for Autoimmune Diseases Our body's immune system protects us from infections and illnesses. When the immune system begins to attack healthy cells and tissues in the body, it can trigger autoimmune diseases. This disorder tends to run in families, and women, particularly Hispanic, Native American, and African American, are at higher risk. Treatment involves attempts to control the disease process as well as reduce symptoms. Medications and supplements can be effective, while some choose to rely on changes in nutritional intake. Paleo is one of the most controversial nutritional diets today and many have chosen to adopt it to combat autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune Disorders This condition occurs when the immune system produces an abnormal response against substances normally found in the body. The immune system becomes unable to differentiate between healthy body tissues and antigens, leading to the destruction of normal body tissues. This is usually characterized by a hypersensitivity reaction almost identical to the response in allergic conditions. The cause of autoimmune diseases is still unknown, but there is a theory that certain microorganisms or medications may have triggered these changes. These can also affect one or more organs or tissues. Blood vessels, joints, muscles, red blood cells, skin and connective tissues are among the most commonly affected. Examples of autoimmune diseases include: Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the spinal cord and brain. Addison's disease - is a disorder in which the adrenal glands produce limited hormones, which are not sufficient for the body.By...... middle of paper ......o, dill, lavender, lemongrass, mint, parsley, rosemary, sage, tarragon and thymePantry items - apple cider vinegar, anchovies, coconut flour, dried fruit, olives, sardines and tunaFoods to give upGrains - barley, buckwheat, corn, millet , oats, quinoa, rice, spelled, teff and wheatBeans and legumes - black beans, chickpeas, lentils, lima beans, peanuts, kidney beans and soybeans - anise, canola, chia, coriander, cumin, fennel seeds, mustard, nutmeg, pumpkin, sesame and sunflowerEggs - chicken, duck and gooseNightshades - cayenne pepper, eggplant, goji berry, habanero, jalapeno, paprika, potato, tomato and gojiNuts - almond, coffee, cocoa, hazelnut, pecan, macadamia and nutsDairy – butter, cheese, cream, cream cheese, milk and yogurtAlcohol – all kindsProcessed foods – cookies, pretzels, protein bars, sugary sodas and energy drinks