Holistic Therapist Magazine - Issue 40

Page 32

BUSINESS

Autoimmune disorders

HOLISTIC THERAPY FOR

autoimmune DISORDERS Autoimmune diseases are becoming more prevalent. We look at the latest research and how holistic therapies can help alleviate some symptoms in those who suffer from these disorders…

E

ACH of us has a natural immune system within our bodies. This is designed to fight off infections and attacks by viruses and bacteria. Because the immune system is a complex network of specialist cells, proteins and chemical reactions, it can malfunction, essentially treating the body’s own healthy cells as if they were invading organisms and attacking itself, destroying the healthy cells. The reaction is automatic. Many autoimmune disorders involve attacks on the joints, muscles and organs throughout the body.

32

HOLISTIC THERAPIST 2021

Autoimmune diseases The NHS recognises over 80 different autoimmune diseases, although the US-based equivalents list over 140. There are varying degrees of underlying scientific evidence to classify various disorders as having an autoimmune component, so our understanding changes constantly. Earlier this year, fibromyalgia was recognised for the first time as an autoimmune disease. The most prevalent autoimmune diseases include type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease, Addison’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

holistictherapistmagazine.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.