Why I Chose to Specialize in Autoimmune Conditions (and What You Can Do About It)
Autoimmune diseases are rising at alarming rates, especially among women. More than 1 in 10 people now live with some form of autoimmune condition—whether it’s rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease, Hashimoto’s, or psoriasis. And yet, so many are still misdiagnosed, gaslit, or left to figure it out on their own.
For me, it’s personal.
I live with celiac disease and rheumatoid arthritis—two autoimmune conditions that deeply affect my daily life. With celiac, even trace amounts of gluten trigger an immune response that inflames my gut and drains my energy. Rheumatoid arthritis adds another layer, targeting the small joints in my hands and feet. Some days, walking barefoot, gripping a pen, or opening a jar feels like climbing a mountain. My mother and sister also live with autoimmune conditions, and this shared journey has shaped every part of my life—and the way I practice.
That’s why I chose to specialize in autoimmune wellness through naturopathy. I’ve spent years learning how food, herbs, emotions, and the nervous system can impact our immune response—because healing requires more than medication. It requires deep, holistic care.
Foods That Fuel Inflammation (Avoid When Possible):
If you live with an autoimmune condition, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about reducing your inflammatory load and giving your body space to heal.
Here are common culprits:
Gluten (especially wheat)
Refined sugar
Dairy (especially cow’s milk)
Industrial seed oils (canola, sunflower, corn)
Processed meats (cold cuts, bacon)
Alcohol
Ultra-processed snacks and ready-made meals
Additives and emulsifiers (watch those labels)
What to Eat More Of:
Steamed leafy greens (kale, spinach, bok choy)
Omega-3s (wild salmon, flax, chia)
Colorful veggies (rich in antioxidants)
Anti-inflammatory spices (turmeric, ginger, cinnamon)
Fermented foods (if tolerated)
Herbal teas (nettle, chamomile, ginger)
Bone broth or vegan alternatives for gut lining support
Note: Each person is unique—this is where naturopathy steps in to customize everything to your body, your symptoms, your root causes.
Lifestyle Changes That Can Make a Huge Difference:
Prioritize sleep: aim for 7–9 hours with a consistent bedtime
Move gently but regularly: think Pilates, walking, swimming
Reduce screen time & blue light at night
Create nervous system rituals: breathwork, grounding, massages
Reduce toxic load: choose clean skincare, cookware, and cleaning products
Honor your emotions: autoimmune conditions often flare during periods of suppressed anger, grief, or overwhelm
Science Check:
A 2020 study published in Frontiers in Immunology states:
“Environmental factors such as diet, stress, infections, and gut dysbiosis are closely linked to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.”
– Lerner et al., Frontiers in Immunology, 2020
The science is catching up to what holistic healers have known for centuries: your immune system is deeply connected to your gut, your stress levels, your environment, and your emotions.
You’re Not Broken. You’re Inflammation-Sensitive.
Autoimmune healing isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about reconnecting with your body, removing what’s hurting it, and nourishing what brings it back to life. This is what I do—gently and respectfully—through AMPM Rituals and my naturopathic practice on the Plateau Mont-Royal.
If you or someone you love is navigating autoimmunity, I see you. I am you.
You don’t have to do this alone.
Book with me: ampmrituals.com
Follow on Instagram: @am.pm.rituals
