Hashimoto’s in Children: What Ultrasound and Vitamin D Reveal

New research shows vitamin D may reduce thyroid antibodies and Doppler resistive index in children with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Introduction: Understanding Hashimoto’s in Children

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is one of the most common autoimmune thyroid disorders, but when it occurs in children, it presents unique challenges. The thyroid gland — a small butterfly-shaped organ in the neck — plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, growth, and energy. In Hashimoto’s, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation, gradual destruction of thyroid tissue, and eventually hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid).

While adults often experience fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes, children may show slowed growth, delayed puberty, difficulty concentrating, or behavioral changes. Because these symptoms overlap with many other childhood conditions, diagnosis can be tricky. Clinicians rely on blood tests for thyroid hormones and antibodies, but imaging techniques like ultrasound are increasingly being used to provide additional insights.

The Role of Ultrasound and Doppler Imaging

Ultrasound is a non-invasive way to visualize the thyroid gland. In Hashimoto’s, the gland often appears irregular, with changes in texture and echogenicity (brightness on the scan). Color Doppler imaging adds another layer: it measures blood flow within the thyroid. One specific parameter, the resistive index (RI), reflects vascular resistance in thyroid tissue. Researchers have wondered whether RI could serve as a diagnostic marker for Hashimoto’s, helping distinguish affected children from healthy peers.

Vitamin D and Autoimmunity

Alongside imaging, nutrition has entered the spotlight. Vitamin D, long known for its role in bone health, is now recognized as a key regulator of the immune system. Deficiency has been linked to several autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In children, low vitamin D levels may not only weaken bones but also contribute to immune dysregulation.

This raises an intriguing question: could vitamin D supplementation improve thyroid health in children with Hashimoto’s, and even alter imaging findings such as the resistive index?

The Study at a Glance

A recent study by Sultan Kaba and colleagues (2025) explored exactly this. The researchers enrolled 84 children — 45 diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and 39 healthy controls matched by age and sex.

• Baseline assessments: All participants underwent blood tests for thyroid hormones, antibodies, and vitamin D levels. They also had grayscale ultrasound and color Doppler imaging of the thyroid.

• Intervention: Children with Hashimoto’s received oral vitamin D supplementation (about 2,000 IU daily).

• Follow-up: After two months, the team repeated the blood tests and imaging.

Key Findings

1. Ultrasound differences: Children with Hashimoto’s showed significantly higher grayscale ultrasound grades compared to controls, confirming that imaging can reveal structural changes in the thyroid.

2. Hormone and vitamin D levels: Patients had lower free thyroxine (FT4) and vitamin D levels at baseline.

3. Impact of supplementation: After two months of vitamin D treatment:

   • Anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibody levels decreased significantly.

   • Resistive index values in both thyroid lobes dropped, indicating reduced vascular resistance.

What Does This Mean?

The study suggests two important takeaways:

• Resistive index is not a standalone diagnostic tool. While RI values were higher in Hashimoto’s patients, they are not reliable enough to diagnose the condition on their own. Blood tests and grayscale ultrasound remain essential.

• Vitamin D supplementation may improve thyroid health. The reduction in antibody titers and RI values after supplementation points to a potential therapeutic role. Vitamin D may help calm the autoimmune attack and improve vascular dynamics in the thyroid.

Why This Matters for Families

For parents of children with Hashimoto’s, these findings are encouraging. They highlight the importance of checking vitamin D levels and considering supplementation under medical guidance. While vitamin D is not a cure, it may support thyroid health and reduce autoimmune activity.

Moreover, the study underscores the value of ultrasound and Doppler imaging as part of the diagnostic and monitoring toolkit. These techniques are safe, painless, and provide real-time insights into thyroid structure and blood flow.

Limitations and Next Steps

It’s important to note that this was a relatively small study, and all patients received vitamin D — there was no untreated comparison group. Larger, controlled trials are needed to confirm the benefits of supplementation and clarify whether improvements in RI translate into long-term clinical outcomes.

Still, the findings add to a growing body of evidence linking vitamin D to autoimmune thyroid disease. They also encourage clinicians to think beyond blood tests and consider imaging parameters when evaluating pediatric patients.

Practical Takeaways for Readers

• Know the signs: If your child shows unexplained fatigue, slowed growth, or learning difficulties, thyroid testing may be warranted.

• Ask about imaging: Ultrasound and Doppler can provide valuable information beyond blood tests.

• Check vitamin D: Many children are deficient, especially those with limited sun exposure. Supplementation should always be guided by a healthcare professional.

• Stay informed: Research is evolving, and what we know today may expand tomorrow.

• Vitamin D supplements are accessible on Amazon, but always consult a healthcare professional before use.

Conclusion

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis in children is a complex condition that requires careful diagnosis and management. This new study highlights both the promise and the limitations of using resistive index as a diagnostic marker, while pointing to vitamin D supplementation as a potentially beneficial adjunct therapy.

For families and clinicians alike, the message is clear: a holistic approach — combining blood tests, imaging, nutrition, and ongoing monitoring — offers the best path forward. As research continues, we may see vitamin D and Doppler imaging play an even greater role in supporting thyroid health in children.

Source: Evaluating the role of resistive index in pediatric Hashimoto’s thyroiditis diagnosis and the impact of vitamin D treatment on resistive index

Two Diseases, One Solution? How Omega-3s May Link and Treat RA and Lupus

 

Discovering a Shared Genetic Bridge and a Natural Therapeutic Hope

If you live with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE/Lupus), you know the challenges are immense. What if scientists found that these two separate conditions have a much deeper connection than we previously thought—and that this shared root could be targeted by a familiar, powerful natural supplement?

A groundbreaking study indexed on PubMed suggests exactly this. By analyzing the genetic blueprints of RA and Lupus, researchers found a surprising common ground, pointing to omega-3 fatty acids as a potential "potent therapeutic" for both.

Here is what you need to know about this exciting research and what it could mean for your health.

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The Unexpected Link: RA and Lupus Share a Genetic Story

For a long time, RA (a joint disease) and Lupus (a systemic disease affecting many organs) were treated as distinct battles. However, many patients experience symptoms of both, and doctors have long suspected a shared underlying problem.

The study used advanced technology called biological network analysis to look for common threads in the genes associated with both diseases.

The Key Discovery: Shared Signaling Pathways

Researchers found hundreds of shared genes that appear to be misfiring in both RA and Lupus. More importantly, these genes control the same critical biological systems, known as signaling pathways.

Think of these pathways as the communication lines within your immune system. When these lines are faulty, the body attacks its own tissues. The study found that common pathways like cAMP signaling and TGF-β signaling were involved in both conditions.

In simple terms: While RA and Lupus manifest differently, their immune systems appear to be running on the same faulty operating software. This shared "glitch" means that a therapy that fixes the software for one disease could potentially help the other.

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The Therapeutic Breakthrough: Why Omega-3s Are the Focus

Once the common genetic pathways were identified, the researchers looked for molecules that could effectively "switch off" or regulate these faulty signals. Their spotlight landed firmly on one of the most studied health supplements: Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

The Role of ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid)

The study specifically highlighted a type of Omega-3 called Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), which is naturally found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and some oils.

• A "Master Key" Molecule: ALA was found to have a strong binding affinity to several "hub genes"—the central control genes in the identified faulty pathways.

• The Power of Interaction: This suggests that ALA isn't just a general anti-inflammatory; it may be a highly targeted therapeutic that can directly interrupt the specific genetic malfunction shared by RA and Lupus.

This finding elevates omega-3s from a general wellness booster to a potentially mechanism-specific treatment for these autoimmune conditions.

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Taking Action: What This Means for You

This research is incredibly hopeful, but it’s important to remember that it is a scientific study, not final medical advice. However, it strongly supports integrating healthy fats into your treatment plan.

1. Prioritize Your Omega-3 Intake

The science is clearly pointing to the power of these healthy fats. Work with your care team to ensure you are getting enough:

• Focus on the Trio: Look for supplements that contain all three key Omega-3s: ALA (from plants), EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid), and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid—often from fish oil or algae).

• Dietary Sources: Regularly include sources of Omega-3s in your diet, such as fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. To reach the 1,000 mg (1 gram) target, often studied for anti-inflammatory effects, here are some practical food amounts:

Food Source	Primary Omega-3 Type	To Get ≈1 gram of Omega-3	Notes
Salmon (Wild or Farmed)	EPA + DHA	3 - 4 ounces (a small fillet)	Farmed salmon is often higher in Omega-3 than wild, but choose baked/broiled/grilled.
Sardines (Canned)	EPA + DHA	A little less than 3 ounces (about 1 small can)	Excellent source; look for sardines packed in water or olive oil.
Walnuts	ALA	A little over half cup (about 1.5 - 2 oz)	Walnuts offer approx 2.5 of ALA per 1 oz (a small handful).
Flaxseeds (Ground)	ALA	half to 1 Tablespoon	Flaxseed has approx 1.8 of ALA per 1 Tbsp. Grind them for maximum absorption.
Chia Seeds	ALA	2 to 3 Tablespoons	Chia seeds contain 2.5 of ALA per 1 oz (about 2.5 Tbsp).

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Omega-3 Dosages for Autoimmune Conditions: What Research Suggests

Scientific studies on Omega-3s (specifically the marine-derived forms, EPA and DHA, often found in fish oil) have used varying doses, but offer a clearer picture for autoimmune patients:

Condition	Goal	Typical Research Dosages (Combined EPA + DHA)	Key Findings
General Health	Daily Maintenance	250 mg – 500 mg per day	Recommended minimum by many health organizations for healthy adults.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)	Pain/Stiffness Reduction	1,000 mg – 3,000 mg per day	Higher doses (2.7g daily) have been shown to significantly reduce joint pain, stiffness, and potentially lower the need for NSAIDs.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE/Lupus)	Reduce Disease Activity	3,000 mg – 6,000 mg (3 to 6 grams) per day	Trials have shown a reduction in disease activity (measured by SLAM-R scores) and anti-inflammatory benefits at this range.
Safety Threshold	Maximum Safe Intake	Up to 5,000 mg (5 g) per day	The FDA generally considers up to 5 grams of combined EPA and DHA per day safe for adults.

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Note: Always read the supplement label! A 1,000 mg fish oil capsule may only contain 300 mg of combined EPA and DHA. Look for the actual amount of EPA and DHA per serving.

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2. Discuss It With Your Doctor

If you are considering increasing your Omega-3 intake or trying a high-dose supplement, always discuss it with your rheumatologist or primary care doctor first.

• Interactions: They can ensure the supplement won't interfere with your current medications (especially blood thinners) and help you determine the safest and most effective dose for your specific condition and overall health goals.

3. Stay Informed

This study opens the door for new clinical trials and research focused on utilizing omega-3s as a specific treatment strategy for RA and Lupus. The future of personalized autoimmune treatment looks bright!

How Diet Shapes Multiple Sclerosis: What Recent Research Reveals

 

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) means navigating not only symptoms and treatments, but also lifestyle choices that can influence the course of the disease. One of the most powerful—and often overlooked—factors is diet. A recent review published in Nutrients (MDPI, 2024) highlights how the foods we eat can either fuel inflammation or help calm it, shaping the progression of MS.

Why Diet Matters in MS

MS is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves. While genetics play a role, environmental factors—especially nutrition—can tip the balance between inflammation and healing. Researchers now see the gut–brain axis (the connection between gut health and the nervous system) as a key player in MS.

Fats: The Good, the Bad, and the Protective

• Saturated fats (found in fatty meats, butter, coconut cream/milk, processed foods) tend to worsen inflammation and are linked to more active MS.

• Monounsaturated fats (like olive oil and avocados) help reduce oxidative stress and support gut health.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, flaxseed, walnuts) are strongly anti-inflammatory and may lower MS risk and improve outcomes.

• Trans fats & ultra-processed foods disrupt gut bacteria and fuel inflammation.

 Carbohydrates: Quality Counts

• Refined sugars and white flour spike blood sugar and drive inflammation.

• Whole grains and complex carbs provide steady energy and support gut health.

• Fiber is especially important—it feeds beneficial gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which strengthen the gut lining and calm the immune system.

Proteins: A Mixed Picture

• Red and processed meats may promote inflammation.

• Dairy and gluten show mixed evidence—some people report sensitivity, but research is not conclusive.

• Plant proteins (beans, lentils, soy) are generally more supportive of an anti-inflammatory diet.

 Fiber: A Star Player

Fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains) consistently show protective effects in MS. By nourishing gut bacteria, fiber helps produce SCFAs that:

• Strengthen the gut barrier

• Reduce harmful immune activity

• Support regulatory T cells (which keep inflammation in check)

Gut Microbiota: The Hidden Link

People with MS often show gut dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut bacteria. Diet is one of the strongest ways to restore balance. Eating more fiber, omega-3s, and plant-based foods helps cultivate a healthier microbiome, which in turn reduces inflammation in the brain and spinal cord.

Practical Takeaways

If you’re living with MS, consider these dietary shifts:

• Favor: olive oil, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables

• Limit: saturated fats (butter, fatty meats, coconut cream/milk), refined carbs, sugary foods, ultra-processed snacks

 Final Word

This research reinforces what many people with MS already sense: food matters. While diet isn’t a cure, it’s a powerful tool to support your body, reduce inflammation, and potentially slow disease progression. More clinical trials are needed, but the evidence so far points toward an anti-inflammatory, fiber-rich diet as a smart choice for living well with MS.

SOURCE: Read the full research

Other posts you may be interested in:

High levels of alexithymia in patients with multiple sclerosis

Early symptoms and the Specific Risk of Multiple Sclerosis

A promising path for future treatments to stop progressive MS

Manganese benefits for autoimmune disease

Alternative Medicine and Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): A Comprehensive Review

 Why This Review Matters

The article emphasizes that while conventional therapies (NSAIDs, DMARDs, biologics) remain central to AS management, their side effects and high costs drive interest in complementary approaches. 

This review systematically explores how alternative medicine—particularly herbal and traditional therapies—may help regulate inflammation, oxidative stress, and abnormal bone formation.

Pathogenesis and Symptoms

• AS basics: An autoimmune disease causing chronic inflammation in the sacroiliac joints and spine.

• Symptoms: Back pain, morning stiffness, sacroiliitis, and extra-articular issues (like eye inflammation).

• Underlying mechanisms: Involves immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, and osteogenesis (new bone formation).

Diagnosis

• Clinical signs: Chronic back pain before age 45.

• Imaging: MRI and X-rays detect inflammation and joint changes.

• Lab markers: HLA-B27 is often present but not definitive.

Alternative Medicine Approaches Highlighted in the Review

The authors detail several complementary therapies:

• Herbal formulations: Plant-based decoctions and extracts that may reduce inflammation and regulate bone metabolism.

• Moxibustion: A heat-based therapy from traditional medicine, shown to relieve stiffness and pain.

• Acupuncture and Oriental medicine: Techniques that may improve mobility and reduce pain perception.

• Lifestyle integration: Exercise combined with herbal remedies enhances outcomes.

These therapies target key disease processes—immune imbalance, oxidative stress, and abnormal bone growth—suggesting a holistic benefit.

Evidence and Limitations

• Most findings come from cell and animal studies, with smaller clinical trials showing promise.

• Large-scale human studies are still needed to confirm safety and effectiveness.

• Alternative medicine should be used as complementary, not a replacement for conventional care.

Key Takeaways for People with AS

• Alternative medicine offers supportive options alongside standard treatments.

• Herbal remedies, moxibustion, and acupuncture may help manage pain and stiffness.

• Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new therapies.

• The future of AS management may lie in integrated approaches that combine modern medicine with traditional practices.

 You can read the full article here.

You may also be interested in:

• Ankylosing Spondylitis: A patient's story to diagnosis

• Long-standing Link Between ankylosing spondylitis and HLA-B27 Explained

• Autoimmune Conditions That Commonly Cause Pain

Hope on the Horizon: What CAR-T Trials Mean for Rheumatic Disease Patients

 For decades, people living with autoimmune rheumatic diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic sclerosis have relied on immunosuppressive medications to manage symptoms and slow disease progression. But what if the immune system could be reset entirely—offering not just relief, but remission?

Enter CAR-T cell therapy: a groundbreaking treatment originally developed for cancer that’s now making waves in the world of autoimmunity.

What Is CAR-T Therapy?

CAR-T stands for Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy. It involves collecting a patient’s own T cells (a type of immune cell), genetically modifying them to target specific immune components, and reintroducing them into the body to eliminate the cells causing disease.

In cancer, CAR-T cells hunt down tumor cells. In autoimmune diseases, they’re being trained to target malfunctioning B cells—the culprits behind many autoimmune attacks.

The Clinical Trial Landscape

Recent trials have shown remarkable promise:

• Lupus breakthrough: A small study in Germany demonstrated that CAR-T therapy led to complete remission in patients with severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who had failed conventional treatments.

• Expanding scope: Trials are now exploring CAR-T for other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, and myositis.

• Safety first: Researchers are carefully monitoring side effects, especially cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a known risk in cancer CAR-T treatments. So far, autoimmune applications appear to carry lower risk.

Why This Matters for Patients

CAR-T therapy could be a game-changer for those with hard-to-treat disease:

• Potential for long-term remission without daily medications

• Targeted approach that avoids broad immune suppression

• Hope for patients who haven’t responded to existing therapies

However, it’s not yet widely available. Most trials are still in early phases, and the treatment is complex and costly.

What’s Next?

Researchers are working on:

• Next-gen CAR-T cells with built-in safety switches

• Off-the-shelf options that don’t require custom cell engineering

• Expanded access through larger trials and regulatory approvals

While it’s not a cure-all, CAR-T therapy represents a bold new frontier in autoimmune care—one that could redefine what’s possible for millions of patients.

 Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one lives with an autoimmune rheumatic disease, CAR-T therapy is a topic worth watching. It’s a reminder that science is moving fast—and that hope is very much on the horizon.

Read the Research Report from October 2025 Frontiers

You might also like to find out:

• How Chinese Medicine is changing Autoimmune Skin Care

• Why Platelets matter in Autoimmune Disease

• Natural Remedies for Inflammation

How Chinese Medicine Is Shaping the Future of Autoimmune Skin Care

Living with autoimmune-related skin diseases like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (AD), vitiligo, or Sjögren’s syndrome (SjS) can feel like a never-ending battle. 

Between flare-ups, side effects from medications, and the emotional toll of symptoms, many people are searching for gentler, more effective solutions. 

Excitingly, a wave of research from leading universities in China and Macao is shedding light on an ancient source of healing: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

 What’s the Buzz About?

A recent review published in Frontiers in Immunology explores how bioactive compounds from TCM are showing real promise in treating autoimmune-related skin diseases. 

Researchers from five major institutions—including Hubei University of Chinese Medicine and Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine—dug deep into the science behind these natural remedies.

Their findings? TCM compounds like curcumin (from turmeric), resveratrol (found in grapes), baicalein (from Scutellaria root), berberine, ginsenosides (from ginseng), and paeoniflorin (from peony root) are more than just folk medicine—they’re pharmacological powerhouses.

How Do These Compounds Help?

These natural ingredients work through multiple pathways in the body, including:

• Reducing inflammation by blocking pro-inflammatory cytokines

• Restoring skin barrier function, which is often compromised in conditions like AD and psoriasis

• Balancing immune cells, helping to calm the overactive immune response

• Protecting melanocytes in vitiligo, which may help preserve skin pigmentation

• Improving glandular secretion in Sjögren’s, easing dryness and discomfort

Even better? Scientists are developing nano-based delivery systems to improve how these compounds are absorbed and used by the body, making them more effective than ever.

Why This Matters

Current treatments for autoimmune skin diseases often come with trade-offs: high costs, limited effectiveness, and unwanted side effects. 

TCM offers a gentler alternative that taps into centuries of wisdom—now backed by modern science.

While more clinical trials are needed to fully understand how these compounds work and how best to deliver them, the future looks bright. 

These findings pave the way for safer, more holistic therapies that could transform how we manage autoimmune skin conditions.

What’s Next?

If you’re living with an autoimmune skin disease, this research offers hope. Talk to your healthcare provider about integrative approaches and keep an eye on emerging treatments that blend tradition with innovation.

For a deeper dive into the study, check out the full article on Frontiers Immunology.

Based on current research and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practices, autoimmune patients may benefit from using these compounds in several ways, but it's important to do so under professional guidance. 

If you're considering trying these compounds, it's best to consult with a dermatologist or TCM practitioner to determine the safest and most effective form for your condition.

Here's a breakdown of how these herbs are typically used:

Ingesting (Eating or Capsules/Tablets)

Many TCM compounds like curcumin, berberine, ginsenosides, and paeoniflorin are available as dietary supplements or herbal teas. These forms are commonly used to:

• Reduce systemic inflammation

• Modulate immune responses

• Support gut and skin health

Capsules and tablets offer standardized dosing and are often preferred for consistent therapeutic effects. However, absorption can vary, which is why nano-based delivery systems are being explored to improve bioavailability.

Topical Use (Creams, Oils, or Extracts)

For skin-specific autoimmune conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo, topical formulations can:

• Soothe inflammation and itching

• Restore skin barrier function

• Deliver antioxidants directly to affected areas

Compounds like baicalein and resveratrol have shown promise in topical applications, especially when combined with modern carriers like liposomes or hydrogels.

Several topical products containing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) compounds like curcumin, berberine, and ginseng (ginsenosides) are available.

Traditional Preparations (Teas, Decoctions, or Powders)

TCM practitioners often prescribe custom herbal blends tailored to the individual's constitution and symptoms. These are typically consumed as teas or decoctions and may include combinations of:

• Peony root

• Ginseng

• Licorice root

This method is deeply rooted in TCM philosophy and is often used alongside acupuncture or dietary therapy.

Important Considerations

• Always consult a qualified practitioner before starting any herbal regimen, especially if you're on immunosuppressants or other medications.

• Quality and sourcing matter—look for reputable brands and standardized extracts.

• Skin patch tests are recommended before using any topical herbal product to avoid allergic reactions.

Have you tried any of these Traditional Chinese Medicine products in the past? Let us know what you used them for and how you went in the comments below. 

If you purchase any of the TCM herbal teas or creams etc. through the Amazon links I receive a small percentage of the profits at no extra cost to you, as I am an Amazon affiliate. 

How Environmental Toxins Disrupt the Gut–Brain Axis

 Here's a post based on the recent findings about environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) and their impact on the gut–brain axis:

If you live with an autoimmune condition, you already know how delicate the balance of your immune system can be. But did you know that certain environmental chemicals—called endocrine disruptors—might be tipping that balance even further?

A recent study published in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety has revealed how environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) can wreak havoc on the gut–brain axis, a vital communication network that links your digestive system, brain, hormones, and immune function.

Let’s break down what this means—and why it matters for autoimmune health.

What Are Environmental Endocrine Disruptors (EEDs)?

EEDs are chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, personal care products, and even some foods. They mimic or block hormones in your body, interfering with normal endocrine function. Common examples include:

• Bisphenol A (BPA)

• Phthalates

• Parabens

• Organophosphates

The Gut–Brain Axis: Your Body’s Internal Communication Highway

The gut–brain axis is a two-way street connecting:

• Gut microbiome: trillions of bacteria that help digest food and regulate immunity

• Immune system: especially gut-associated immune cells like T cells and macrophages

• Neural signaling: neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine

• Endocrine pathways: hormonal systems like the HPA (stress response) and HPG (reproductive health) axes

When this system is in balance, it helps regulate mood, digestion, sleep, and immune responses. But EEDs can throw it off course.

How EEDs Disrupt the Gut–Brain Axis

The study uncovered four major ways EEDs interfere with this delicate system:

1. Gut Microbial Chaos

EEDs alter the composition of gut bacteria, reducing beneficial strains and allowing harmful ones to flourish. This dysbiosis can trigger inflammation and increase the risk of autoimmune flare-ups.

2. Immune System Breakdown

EEDs impair gut-associated immune cells, weakening mucosal immunity. This makes the gut lining more vulnerable to infections and inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

3. Hormonal Havoc

EEDs disrupt the HPA and HPG axes, leading to hormonal imbalances that affect stress response, reproductive health, and immune regulation. For people with autoimmune disorders, this can mean more frequent or severe symptoms.

4. Neurochemical Imbalance

These chemicals interfere with neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are crucial for mood, sleep, and cognitive function. They may also cause direct damage to brain structures, compounding neurological symptoms.

What Can You Do?

While you can’t eliminate all environmental toxins, you can reduce exposure and support your gut–brain axis:

• Choose BPA-free and phthalate-free products

• Eat organic when possible to avoid pesticide residues

• Support gut health with probiotics and fiber-rich foods

• Manage stress to protect your HPA axis

• Work with a healthcare provider to monitor hormone levels

Why This Matters for Autoimmune Warriors

Autoimmune disorders are often triggered or worsened by environmental and lifestyle factors. Understanding how EEDs affect the gut–brain axis gives us a new lens to view chronic inflammation, fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues.

This research is a call to action—for individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers—to take endocrine disruptors seriously and protect vulnerable populations.

If you’re navigating life with an autoimmune condition, your gut and brain are already working overtime. Let’s give them the support they need—starting with awareness.

Read the research 

Did you know about these EED's before reading this article? I would love to know in the comments. 

Vitamin D and Lupus: What You Should Know

If you’re living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), you know how unpredictable and exhausting it can be. 

A recent study from Mandalay General Hospital in Myanmar offers new insight into how vitamin D might play a role in managing lupus symptoms—and it’s something you can act on.

What Is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease. That means your immune system—which normally protects you—starts attacking your own tissues. It can affect your skin, joints, kidneys, brain, and more. Symptoms vary, but common ones include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and anemia.

What Did the Study Look At?

Researchers wanted to see if there’s a link between vitamin D levels in the blood and how active lupus is. They studied 60 people with lupus, mostly women in their 20s, and measured:

• Their vitamin D levels

• Their disease activity using a score called SLAM (Systemic Lupus Activity Measure)

They divided participants into two groups:

• Active lupus (more symptoms)

• Inactive lupus (fewer symptoms)

What Did They Find?

The results were clear:

• People with active lupus had much lower vitamin D levels (average 12.2 ng/mL)

• People with inactive lupus had higher vitamin D levels (average 26.1 ng/mL)

• There was a moderate link between low vitamin D and higher disease activity

In simple terms: less vitamin D = more lupus symptoms

What Does This Mean for You?

While this study doesn’t prove that low vitamin D causes lupus flares, it does suggest that vitamin D might help regulate your immune system. It could be a useful marker for tracking your disease—and possibly even a target for treatment.

Here’s what you can do:

• Talk to your doctor about checking your vitamin D levels

• Ask if supplements are right for you

• Spend safe time in the sun (with sunscreen!)

• Eat vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk

A Word of Caution

This was a small study, and more research is needed to confirm the findings. But it’s a promising step toward understanding how lifestyle and nutrition can support autoimmune health.

Final Thoughts

Living with lupus is tough—but knowledge is power. This study gives you one more tool to help manage your symptoms and feel more in control. Vitamin D might not be a cure, but it could be part of your healing journey.

Stay curious, stay hopeful, and keep advocating for your health.

Read The Study Report

You might also like:

Food Sources of Vitamin D : Nourishing from the inside 

Vitamin D and it's link to Lupus (SLE)

10 Tips for living with Autoimmune Fatigue

The information on this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for treatment by a health care practitioner.

Why Platelets Matter in Autoimmune Disease

Most people think platelets only help stop bleeding. But new research shows they do much more — especially in autoimmune diseases like myasthenia gravis (MG).

Introduction: Why Platelets Matter in Autoimmune Disease

For decades, platelets have been cast as the humble first responders of the body—tiny cells whose sole job is to rush to a site of injury and ensure your blood clots to stop bleeding. Most people, including many in the medical community, thought that was where the story ended.

However, new, groundbreaking research has dramatically redefined their role. Platelets are far from passive: they are active immune modulators that hold significant power, especially in autoimmune diseases.

An autoimmune disease is a critical condition where the body’s highly sophisticated immune system malfunctions and begins attacking its own healthy tissues. This research uses a specific condition, Myasthenia Gravis (MG)—a chronic neuromuscular disease causing debilitating muscle weakness—as a window into this new biological mechanism.

The revolutionary finding is this: platelets are not just spectators in the autoimmune fight; they are key players actively fueling the disease process. This paradigm shift—from viewing platelets as merely clotting agents to recognizing them as powerful inflammatory drivers—is opening up a completely new frontier in the search for more effective, targeted treatments.

Platelets Can Fuel Inflammation

In MG, platelets are overactive. They team up with another immune cell called neutrophils. Together, they create a loop that keeps the body inflamed:

• Neutrophils release sticky traps (called NETs) that activate platelets.

• Activated platelets then make neutrophils release even more traps.

• This cycle makes inflammation worse.

This kind of teamwork between platelets and neutrophils may also happen in other autoimmune diseases.

Platelets Affect the Immune System

Platelets in MG don’t just cause inflammation—they also:

• Boost immune cells that attack the body

• Block cells that calm the immune system

This makes it harder for the body to control the disease.

A New Way to Treat Autoimmune Disease?

The study found that blocking a molecule called RANTES helped calm down platelets and reduce inflammation. That means platelets could be a new target for treatment—not just in MG, but maybe in other autoimmune diseases too.

What is RANTES? RANTES (or CCL5) is a type of protein known as a chemokine. Chemokines act like chemical flares, attracting various immune cells—including neutrophils and T-cells—to the site of inflammation. By blocking RANTES, researchers effectively cut the communications line that fuels the platelet-neutrophil cycle.

The Significance of Targeting: This discovery is particularly exciting because it suggests a path toward targeted therapy. Unlike current treatments, which often broadly suppress the entire immune system (leading to side effects and vulnerability to infection), a RANTES-blocking drug could offer a more precise method to disarm the core disease mechanism. Platelets could thus become a new, specific target for treatment—not just in MG, but potentially in other autoimmune diseases too.

What This Means for You

If you live with an autoimmune condition, this research is hopeful. It shows that:

• Platelets may play a bigger role in your disease than we thought.

• New treatments could focus on calming platelets to reduce inflammation.

Science is learning more every day—and that means better care and more options for you.

Read the full scientific study report