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immune boosters bad?

wsjkcj1 profile image
4 Replies

Hi, someone sent me this clip below from an article they read stating "immune boosting" foods and supplements are bad for people with auto immune diseases.

A general rule of thumb when viewing supplements and vitamin use in Sjogren's syndrome: If the product claims to boost your immune system, DON'T TAKE IT. Here's why: People with autoimmune diseases - yup, that includes sjoggies - have an immune system that does not need boosting. It's already too active. It's so active that it's attacking and destroying our own healthy tissue. Some herbals may increase this autoimmune activity or may counteract the effects on medications used to suppress autoimmune disease such as prednisone and methotrexate and may increase the likelihood of having a flare.

this confuses me! I had the same thought when first diagnosed with Sjogren's that since my immune system is going nuts and attacking everything, I probably don't want to make it stronger but my GP suggested I take vitamins, minerals and probiotics to keep my immune system strong. If those things make my immune system stronger and attacking organs even more, why would a Dr. suggest it? Any thoughts?

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weathervane profile image
weathervane

When i last saw the rheumy she advised me not to take supplements as do no good. I didnt ask why as i wasnt feeling quite with it. The only vit i take is vit d as blood tests flagged it up. I sippose we just need to eat a healthy diet.

wsjkcj1 profile image
wsjkcj1 in reply to weathervane

I'm working on the healthy eating. It's not my favorite. :) I have many digestion issues and my GP said to take probiotics. You know how commercials say that over 70% of your immunity is in your gut and probiotics can help release it? Do I want my immune system to be 70% stronger if it's going to harm me worse? I'm sure it's not really that much but still it's confusing when docs tell you different things.

weathervane profile image
weathervane in reply to wsjkcj1

I have worried about this as well but i have been too anxious to add anything else to the large number of pills i already take . I take a probiotic yogurt, the same brand the gp recommended to my husband for this digestion . I dont know how it effects the immune system i tend not to over think things and maybe trust advice of the doctors too much. I just hope they know what they are doing 🙏🏻 Xxx

Beverly profile image
Beverly

If you go to newportnaturalhealth.com they have an explanation there. I find her site quite good.

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