Your immune system is responsible for guarding against harmful disease-causing pathogens,
but what if we told you that sometimes your immune cells could attack your body’s organs, tissue,
and cells? That’s right! Your body could confuse your healthy cells for invaders and kill them,
resulting in excessive inflammation and leading to an autoimmune disorder.
More than 80 identified diseases are born out of autoimmune reactions.
And there may be a reason behind the development. Specifically, a vitamin
deficiency that has been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune disorders. In today’s video,
we’ll go into detail on this deficiency and cover why and how autoimmune diseases develop!
First, let’s get to know autoimmune disorders a bit more.
An army of various immune cells, such as macrophages, B-cells, and T-cells, usually
manage an immune response. These cells produce soluble mediators (cytokines and nitric oxide)
and autoantibodies. However, sometimes, instead of targeting foreign cells, these autoantibodies
mistakenly attack specific parts of your body, such as your joints and skin, causing damage.
Type 1 diabetes is a good example of an autoimmune disorder that targets a specific organ,
in this case, the pancreas, which is responsible for producing insulin. Insulin is a hormone
that helps regulate blood sugar levels and is essential for energy production in the body.
In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks the pancreas,
which causes damage that can result in the complete inability to produce
insulin or insulin production that fails to regulate blood sugar levels properly.
There are a few other organ-specific autoimmune disorders. Rheumatoid arthritis, for instance,
is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the joints. And Psoriasis is a
skin disease that causes scaly and itchy rashes. Let’s not forget Multiple sclerosis a disabling
disease that damages the protective outer covering of nerves, affecting brain function.
Now, what vitamin deficiency puts you at a greater risk of developing autoimmune diseases?
Vitamin D! Yes, you heard that right! Known for its role in bone strengthening,
vitamin D is equally essential for your immune system. And recent studies have shown
growing evidence of the link between vitamin D and your immune responses.
Vitamin D is an integral part of dendritic cells, a type of immune cell found in tissues
such as the skin. These cells recognize foreign substances, such as antigens,
and show them to other immune system cells to mount an effective immune response.
Did you know white blood cells (WBCs) are essential to your immune system? Two specific
types of WBCs called monocytes and T cells, actually contain vitamin D in them! These immune
cells play a crucial role in your innate immune system, a non-specific immunity you’re born with,
and act as the body’s first line of defense against invading microbes or harmful substances.
A deficiency of vitamin D can cause an increase in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines,
which can lead to chronic inflammation and result in immune cells attacking healthy tissues.
Research has shown that vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of several autoimmune diseases,
including multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.
Even though vitamin D plays a role in developing or exacerbating certain autoimmune diseases,
it is just one of many factors that can contribute to it. More research
is needed to understand the relationship between vitamin D and autoimmunity fully.
So, What else causes autoimmune diseases?
While vitamin D might contribute to your immune system's misfires, a few other explanations exist.
Such as genetic autoimmune diseases:
Disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and celiac disease can be hereditary.
Although it is not guaranteed that you’ll develop a disease that your parents have, a
family history of a genetic disorder does increase your risk of developing that particular disease.
Also, studies have shown that recurring infections could lead to autoimmune diseases:
When your body encounters foreign pathogens, your immune system produces B and T cells to
fight the invaders. Sometimes, however, these cells multiply excessively and attack healthy
cells after clearing the infection. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the body’s
healthy tissues. Some studies suggest that those with certain infections may have a higher risk of
developing autoimmune disorders, but not all cases of autoimmune diseases are linked to infections.
Another factor is a highly processed diet: Processed foods typically contain high levels
of refined carbohydrates, unhealthy fats, and added sugars, which can trigger inflammation
and oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation that results in tissue damage may increase the risk
of autoimmune disease. Processed foods also lack essential nutrients, such as vitamins,
minerals, and antioxidants, necessary for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Let’s return to our discussion on vitamin D: What causes vitamin D deficiency?
Vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is produced in the skin from sun exposure. So if you are
a stubborn couch potato who seldom goes out of the house to enjoy some sun,
you are more at risk of vitamin D deficiency.
Studies have shown that those who live near the equator or get frequent sun exposure are
less likely to have a vitamin D deficiency than those who rarely receive sunlight.
Eating a poor diet can sometimes lead to a vitamin D deficiency. You may be at risk if your day
starts with an unhealthy breakfast and processed foods. Not only this, but you're setting the
stage for other nutritional deficiencies. Try to include some foods rich in vitamin D in your diet,
including oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, egg yolk, yogurt, and fortified foods
such as milk, orange juice, bread, and cereals. Or purchase over-the-counter vitamin D supplements.
Diseases such as Crohn’s and celiac disease, which involve the inflammation of the gastrointestinal
tract where most nutrient absorption occurs, can lead to vitamin D deficiency.
Due to ongoing inflammation, little room is left to absorb nutrients. So even if
your vitamin D intake is adequate, it won’t be helpful if the body can’t absorb it properly.
Other conditions, such as gastric bypass surgery, chronic kidney disease,
liver disease, and hyperparathyroidism, may also contribute to a vitamin D deficiency.
What are the warning signs of Vitamin D deficiency?
Nutritional deficiencies are hard to differentiate because of their overlapping symptoms.
However, here are a few warning signs to watch for in case you suspect vitamin D deficiency:
Frequent infections: If you often become sick with a cold or flu, the most probable cause
is vitamin D inadequacy. Since vitamin D is an essential factor that enhances your immunity,
its deficiency can increase the occurrence of various illnesses.
Studies have shown that maintaining a proper balance of vitamin D through
supplements was associated with improved immune function and fewer infections.
Fatigue: Do you constantly feel worked up during the day? If so, this could be because of a vitamin
D deficiency. A survey on children concluded that a drop in vitamin D levels is associated
with poor sleep quality and shorter sleep duration, which is likely to trigger a sharp
decline in the energy levels of the concerned individual the next day, causing fatigue.
Bone or back pain: Do you often complain of pain in your bones? Well, this could be another sign of
vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D plays a vital role in the mineralization of bone. It is a crucial
ally of calcium and helps in its absorption, which is necessary for improved bone health.
People with arthritis, muscle pain,
and widespread chronic pain are often reported with lower body vitamin D levels.
Anxiety: Low vitamin D levels can also cause stress and anxiety in individuals. Various
studies have established this claim, as people with anxiety and depression are often diagnosed
with low levels of calcidiol, a type of vitamin D, in their blood. Increasing vitamin D intake can
help reduce your anxiety symptoms, improve sleep quality, and help manage postpartum depression.
Hair loss: Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to alopecia, an autoimmune condition
that causes bald spots or patches on the scalp and around the body. Vitamin D plays a role in
stimulating new and old hair follicles, and a lack of vitamin D could stunt new hair growth.
This is backed by a study on hair loss that surveyed women between 18-45 years old who
have experienced this autoimmune condition and found that they all had lower vitamin D levels.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consider speaking with a healthcare provider
who can evaluate your vitamin D levels and test you for other nutritional deficiencies.
(Pause)
To lower your risk of developing an autoimmune disorder, you should begin
adopting healthy lifestyle habits and addressing any nutritional deficiencies,
such as getting enough vitamin D. Aim for a balanced diet, regular exercise,
and keep yourself hydrated. Try not to be a workaholic or couch potato; remember to go out
in the sun more often. Plan your day with friends and family, and give yourself some “me” time.
Looking to learn more about other nutritional deficiencies?
Check out 8 Warning Signs You’re DEFICIENT
In VITAMIN B1 (Thiamine) Or
19 WARNING Signs You Are Suffering From Calcium Deficiency
Go ahead! Click one, or better yet,
watch both. Do you think you’re vitamin D deficient? Let us know in the comments below!