Paleo Diet for Autoimmune Disorders Our body's immune system protects us from infections and diseases. When the immune system begins to attack the body's healthy cells and tissues, this can trigger autoimmune diseases. This disorder tends to run in families, and women, particularly Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and African Americans, are at the highest risk. Treatment involves attempts to control the disease process and 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 fight autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune disorders This condition occurs when the immune system produces an abnormal response against substances normally present in the body. The immune system becomes unable to differentiate healthy body tissues and antigens, which results in the destruction of normal body tissues. This is usually characterized by a hypersensitivity reaction almost identical to the response in allergic conditions. The causes of autoimmune diseases are still unknown, however there is a theory that certain microorganisms or drugs may have triggered these changes. These can also affect one or more organs or tissues. Some of the most commonly affected are blood vessels, joints, muscles, red blood cells, skin and connective tissues. Examples of autoimmune disorders 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 enough for the body. For...... middle of paper ......or, 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 upCereals: barley, buckwheat, corn, millet, oats, quinoa, rice, spelt, teff and wheatBeans and legumes - black beans, chickpeas, lentils, lima beans, peanuts, kidney beans and soybeansSeeds - anise, canola, chia, coriander, cumin, fennel seeds, mustard, nutmeg, pumpkin, sesame and sunflowerEggs - chicken, duck and gooseNightshades: cayenne pepper, eggplant, goji berries, habanero, jalapeno, paprika, potatoes, tomatoes and wolfberriesNuts: almonds, coffee, cocoa, hazelnuts, pecans, macadamias and walnutsDairy: butter, cheese, cream, cream cheese, milk and yogurtAlcohol - all typesProcessed foods: cookies, pretzels, protein bars, sugary drinks and energy drinks