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Autoimmune Diseases

T-cells can further divide into helper lymphocytes (Th) and cytotoxic (Tc) or suppressor cells. In response to a foreign pathogen, T-cells secrete communication molecules known as lymphokines, cyto-kines, interleukins, and interferons. T-helper cells assist B-cells and further divide into two special lines of defense. These are Th1 and Th2. When one of these lines (Th1 or Th2) overexpresses, an opportunity for immune dysregulation occurs, resulting in either a hyperimmune response causing autoimmune disease or a hypoimmune response leading to uncontrollable infection. Sterinol, a combination of natural plant sterols and sterolins, modulates the function of the body's T-cells by enhancing their ability to divide. They further promote interleukin-2 and gamma-interferon without enhancing Th2 helper cells that promote inflammation and produce more antibodies. Conventional drug treatment inhibits the entire immune response. Sterolins, however, modulate immune response and are able to reverse immune abnormality at the disease site (Bouic et al. 1996; Gupta et al. 1998).

Alkylglycerols are derived from shark liver oil. Studies indicate that the activation of protein kinase C, an essential step in cell proliferation, can be inhibited by alkylglycerols. Although the mechanism of antiproliferative and immunomodulatory action is unknown, hormonal action of both the autocrine and paracrine systems has been suggested (Pugliese et al. 1998). Alkylglycerols have been promoted for use in immune system stimulation. However, benefits have been reported in those suffering from asthma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune disorders.

L-carnitine is an amino acid that is known to improve conditions associated with low cellular energy. L-carnitine has been shown to reduce the impairment of immune function caused by the consumption of dangerous fats (De Simone et al. 1982). This beneficial action is attributed to L-carnitine's ability to lower serum lipids (fats) by enhancing the transport of beneficial fatty acids into the cell's mitochondria, where they are used to produce energy. Acetyl-L-carnitine is the form of carnitine that is utilized more efficiently in the mitochondria.

Supporting the GI Tract
Intestinal permeability is often disrupted by health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, pancreatic dysfunction, and food allergies. Events such as aging, stress, medications, and alcohol consumption also alter permeability, compromising the barrier that separates food and intestinal bacteria from the rest of the body.

Poor intestinal motility and peristalsis can change beneficial bacterial flora by altering the natural flow of nutrients that are available to them. These same factors can add to the overgrowth of abnormal bacteria and the byproducts they produce, leading to the absorption of antigenic substances into the bloodstream. Immune-related disease is associated with antigenic substances produced by intestinal flora. To correct the problem, bacterial balance must be restored through the use of supplemental probiotics and prebiotics that feed the underproduced bacteria. Species of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli will help restore microfloral balance and stabilize permeability. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are simple sugars that are the preferred nutrient for lactobacilli and bifidobacteria (with the exception of the bifidum species).

Certain nutritional supplements are used by intestinal cells for growth and function. They include:

• L-glutamine, a nonessential amino acid that increases the number of cells in the small intestine along with the number and height of villi on those cells
• Butyric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that enhances function and integrity in the large intestine and is an anticancer agent
• The fatty acids DHA (from fish oil) and GLA (from borage oil), which decrease inflammation and improve intestinal functioning

Appendix A of this protocol provides specific information relating to dietary and intestinal factors involved in autoimmune disease.

Reducing Stress
Stress is a major risk factor in developing disease. Even prolonged low-level stress stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, which, in excess, impairs immune function. Lack of proper rest and sleep, depression, and emotional disturbance contribute to immune dysfunction. In addition, there is a connection between the limbic system, the part of the brain that gives rise to emotion, and immune function. Therefore, to balance the immune system, one must balance the mind and emotions. Biofeedback, guided imagery, yoga, deep breathing, musical participation, positive affirmations, meditation, and prayer all help maintain balance (Hughes 1997; Long et al. 2001; Kuhn 2002; Lehrer et al. 2002; Vempati et al. 2002).

A supplemental approach to stress reduction would be obtained from Garum armoricum extract (Adapton), which contains a class of unique polypeptides that act as precursors to endorphins and other neurotransmitters. These polypeptides exert a regulatory effect on the nervous system enabling an individual to adapt to mentally and physically stressful conditions (Crocq et al. 1978). Another antidote to stress is an amino acid found in green tea called theanine. Although theanine creates a tranquilizing effect on the brain, it appears to increase concentration and focus thought (Juneja et al. 1999). DHEA supplementation is the most effective way of blocking the effects of excess cortisol secretion.

Improving Liver Health
The liver plays a critical role in all aspects of metabolism and health. It is important in the synthesis and secretion of albumin (a blood clotting protein), in the storage of glucose, and in the synthesis of vitamins and minerals. Because the liver has a major role in the purification and clearance of waste products, drugs, and toxins, disease states may be improved by supporting liver function. The herb milk thistle and its components silymarin and silibinin have two therapeutic mechanisms. First, they alter the structure of the outer cell membrane of the hepatocyte to prevent penetration of liver poison into the interior of the cell. Second, they stimulate the action of nucleolar polymerase A, resulting in an increase in ribosomal protein synthesis, thus stimulating the regenerative ability of the liver and the formation of new hepatocytes (Flora et al. 1998; Luper 1998).

SUMMARY

Autoimmune diseases may be greatly improved by strengthening the immune system with nutritional supplements and by making healthy lifestyle changes in diet and stress reduction. The protocols needed may include prescription drugs as well as the following supplements.

1. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will help reduce systemic inflammation that accompanies autoimmune diseases. Life Extension recommends Super GLA/DHA, which has a balanced blend of both EFAs. EPA is also added to the formula to reduce the effects of arachidonic acid, the inflammatory agent found in meat products. Take 6 softgels daily.
2. DHEA is a steroidal hormone that can reduce the effects of inflammatory cytokines; 25-50 mg daily is recommended. DHEA is contraindicated in men with prostate cancer and in women with estrogen related cancer (refer to the DHEA Replacement Therapy protocol for complete information).
3. Free-radical damage is a byproduct of normal metabolic functioning and exposure to toxic substances. The following supplements have proven to be effective free radical scavengers:
   • Vitamin C, 2.5-6 grams daily.
   • Vitamin E, 1 softgel daily of Gamma E Tocopherol/Tocotrienols. (The most balanced form of vitamin E is Gamma E Tocopherol/Tocotrienols, which provides broad spectrum protection.)
   • Green tea extract, two to four 300-mg (90% polyphenols) decaffeinated capsules daily.
   • Beta-carotene, one 25,000-IU softgel daily.
   • Grape seed-skin extract, two 100-mg capsules daily.
   • CoQ10, 100-200 mg daily.
   • SeMSc (selenium) may be the most effective selenium derivative to fight inflammation and neutralize free radicals; 1 capsule daily between meals.
4. Alkylglycerols from Norwegian Shark Liver Oil may modulate the immune system in certain forms of autoimmune disease; one 1000-mg [containing 20% alkylgycerols (200mg)] softgel daily.
5. Acetyl-L-carnitine enhances the transport of EFAs into the cell's mitochondria and may modulate the effects of damaging saturated fats. Suggested dose is two 500-mg softgels twice daily.
6. Super Carnosine will help protect against the formation of glycated proteins; two to three 500-mg capsules daily.
7. Moducare containing plant sterinols improves the immune system by balancing the Th1/Th2 response; 1 capsule 3 times daily between meals.
8. Life Flora is a probiotic that can reinoculate the gut with healthy bacteria; 1-4 capsules daily for maintenance of GI health.
9. NutraFlora is a prebiotic containing FOS, a nutrient for intestinal flora; 1-4 tsp daily for people with chronic disease states.
10. Butyric acid is a short-chain fatty acid needed for healthy functioning of the large intestine. Butyrate enemas may help reduce the intestinal inflammation that accompanies certain autoimmune conditions. Butyrate enemas must be prescribed by a physician.
11. L-glutamine will aid the small intestines by increasing the number and health of intestinal cells; 1-2 grams daily.
12. Adapton acts as a precursor to endorphins, which help to reduce stress. To begin dosing, take 4 softgels first thing in the morning for 15 days and then reduce amount as needed.
13. L-theanine, the amino acid derived from green tea, reduces stress by creating a sense of well-being; 1-4 capsules daily.
14. The liver is the most important organ in the body for detoxification. Silymarin and Silibinin Plus improve liver function. Suggested dosage is 2 capsules daily of Silibinin Plus, which provides 250 mg of silibinin and 60 mg of silymarin.

Product availabiliTY

Super GLA/DHA, perilla oil, flax seed oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, cod liver oil, DHEA, vitamin C, Gamma E Tocopherol/Tocotrienols, Green Tea Extract, beta-carotene, grapeseed-skin extract, CoQ10, SeMSc (selenium), Super Carnosine, Norwegian Shark Liver Oil, acetyl-L-carnitine, Moducare, Life Flora, NutraFlora, L-glutamine, Adapton, L-theanine, and Silibinin Plus are available by calling (800) 544-4440 or order online.

AppendiX A

Leaky Gut Syndrome

The healthy gastrointestinal tract (gut) performs a multitude of functions. It digests foods; absorbs small food particles that are converted into energy; transports vitamins and minerals across the intestinal lining and into the bloodstream; contributes to the chemical detoxification system of the body; and contains immunoglobulins or antibodies that act as the first line of defense against infection.

Leaky gut syndrome represents a condition in which large spaces develop in the intestinal mucosa, allowing bacteria, toxins, and food to leak into the bloodstream. This hyperpermeable condition leads to inflammation and atrophic damage to the mucosal lining. Once the gut lining becomes inflamed or damaged, the functioning of the GI system is disrupted, allowing large food molecules and toxic pathogens that are foreign to our natural defense system to be absorbed into the body. The result is the production of antibodies that launch an attack on the foreign invaders, with our own healthy tissue often being damaged in the process. Food allergies often complicate leaky gut syndrome. An elimination diet should be undertaken to determine food irritants. See the section entitled Supporting the GI Tract for nutritional supplements that will aid digestion and repair a hyperpermeable condition.

Maintaining Proper pH Balance in the Gut
Diet can significantly impact complete immune function. Because 80% of immune system cells reside in the area of the small intestine, numerous potential antigens can form from the incomplete breakdown of food products. Autoimmune states can be induced by food sensitivities that cause intestinal gut permeability and complicate leaky gut syndrome (Kitts et al. 1997). A first defense against the alteration of protein structure that produces autoimmunity is in the consumption of food sources as close to natural as possible. In addition, the body should be kept in the proper acid/alkaline balance. The correct ratio by volume would be 25% acidifying to 75% alkalizing foods. The following chart provides guidelines on proper food selection. In general, it is important to eat a diet that contains both alkalizing and acidifying foods. Allergic reactions and other forms of stress tend to produce acids in the body. The presence of high acidity indicates that more of your foods should be selected from the alkalizing group.