There are certain conditions and illnesses that are far more common than others. Globally, some of the most deadly diseases and conditions include coronary heart disease, stroke and cancer, for example.
However, one expert has warned of another, highly prevalent type of illness that might affect more of us than we realise.
Speaking on YouTube, Dr Eric Berg from the US, warned of the dangers of autoimmune diseases. There are more than 100 types of known autoimmune diseases.
These occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks normal, healthy cells in the body leading to damage.
Common autoimmune diseases include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
According to Dr Berg, autoimmune diseases are a “crazy epidemic” affecting around one in 12 people, and one in nine women.
“It is way more common in heart disease,” he said. “With cancer it’s one out of 14.
“So since the 50s and 60s we have had a three times spike in autoimmune diseases.”
He explained more about the causes of autoimmune diseases.
Dr Berg said: “The single common denominator with all autoimmune diseases is this intestinal permeability – leaky gut.”
Leaky gut syndrome is an intestinal condition in which a weakening of the intestinal walls allows bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream.
It is a theorised condition where scientists are not entirely sure whether it is a disease or symptom.
However, it is a recognised feature of several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases affecting the digestive system, which includes inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease.
Dr Berg listed other causes of autoimmune diseases as:
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Seed oils and ultra-processed foods
- Some medications
- Stress.
How to lower your risk of autoimmune diseases
Dr Berg recommended eating a high-quality diet to reduce your chances of developing an autoimmune disease.
He said: “Start eating really clean grass-fed things. I’m going to highly recommend you get on the ketogenic diet with high quality animal proteins as well as a good amount of fat.”
He advised eating plenty of cooked vegetables and a “moderate” amount of fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut, to keep the gut microbiome healthy.
“As far as Vitamin D goes, yes you need vitamin D,” he continued.
The NHS recommends 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day in supplement form.
Symptoms of autoimmune disease will depend on what part of your body is affected.
The Cleveland Clinic says: “They may cause a variety of symptoms including pain, tiredness (fatigue), rashes, nausea, headaches, dizziness and more.”
However, in relation to the information provided in the video, Dr Berg added: “You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation.
“Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.”
