In autoimmune diseases, the immune system may react against its own tissues, causing inflammation. In recent years, increasing evidence indicates that, for many people, the “starting point” may be related to the intestinal barrier and microbiome balance (the so-called gut–immune axis).

Important: the information below is for educational purposes and does not replace consultation, diagnosis, or treatment recommended by a doctor.

Dietary supplements do not replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Why the gut matters in autoimmune diseases

The concept of the gut–immune axis emphasizes that the gut plays a major role in regulating the immune response. When the intestinal barrier is compromised and the microbiome is imbalanced, persistent inflammatory signals may occur. For this reason, many lifestyle plans complementing medical treatment aim to:

  • regulating immunity (immune modulation),
  • reducing inflammation,
  • supporting the intestinal barrier,
  • balancing the microbiome.

In addition to the treatment recommended by your doctor, you can discuss the following measures with them.

Adjuvant measures (complementing medical treatment)

1) Vitamin D3 + Vitamin K2 + Magnesium (bisglycinate)

Suggested dose: 1–2 capsules/day (for children: 1 capsule/day), depending on the product and doctor's recommendation.

Monitoring: periodically measure vitamin D (for example, every 6–8 months). If it reaches about 80 ng/ml, stop. When it falls below 50 ng/ml, you can resume (ideally with medical approval).

  • Vitamin D is important for optimal immunity.
  • It is combined with K2 because D can increase calcium absorption, and K2 supports directing calcium to the bones.
  • Magnesium is necessary for activating vitamin D.

Note: not administered in sarcoidosis, as it increases calcium levels, which should be avoided in sarcoidosis.

2) Zeolite (e.g., Zeolite Spectrum) – digestive support and timing relative to medications

Suggested dose: 3 tablets in the morning + 3 tablets at lunch + 3 tablets in the evening. 

Hydration: aim for ~2 liters of water per day.

Distance from medications: generally keep a 2-hour gap between zeolite and medications.
Note: if your doctor has prescribed methotrexate, keep a 4-hour gap between methotrexate and zeolite.

Initial adaptation (possible transient effects)

Some people may experience transient constipation in the first days (hydration helps). Sometimes transient symptoms may also appear (e.g., digestive discomfort, headaches, dizziness). A cautious approach is to start with 1 capsule/day and gradually increase the dose (by 1 capsule/day) until the usual dose is reached.

Approximate dosing for children

  • 1–5 years: 1 capsule/day
  • 5–10 years: 2 capsules/day
  • 10–15 years: 3 capsules/day
  • 15–18 years: 4 capsules/day

If a child does not swallow capsules, they can be opened and the powder mixed into water or food. If using powder: 1 capsule ≈ a heaping teaspoon (approximate).

3) AHCC – immune modulation (use cautiously with symptoms)

Introduction: start with 1 capsule/day for 1–2 weeks. If symptoms do not worsen, the dose can be gradually increased (depending on the product):

  • e.g., 3 capsules/day for some formulas (e.g., Mycelcaps) or
  • 2 capsules/day for other formulas (e.g., MCS / Vitals).

If symptoms worsen at any point, stop AHCC and consult your doctor.
For children: 1 capsule/day (approximate, depending on age/weight and medical advice).

Attention: take only one type of AHCC, not all three!

4) Olive leaf extract (oleuropein) – anti-inflammatory support

Approximate dose: 70 ml/day (depending on concentration and product).
For children: 1.5–2 ml/kg/day (approximate).

Olive leaf extract contains compounds (especially oleuropein) with potential to support inflammatory balance.

To order: evergreenlife.io/doctorcip

5) Probiotic – for intestinal flora balance

A well-chosen probiotic can help support the microbiome, especially when there are digestive symptoms or after episodes of imbalance (antibiotics, stress, diet).

6) Liposomal curcumin or Boswellia – for anti-inflammatory effect

Curcumin (preferably forms with good bioavailability) and Boswellia are frequently used as adjuncts to support the inflammatory response.

Lifestyle: diet, intermittent fasting, stress

Intermittent fasting

Intermittent fasting is used by many as a strategy to support metabolism and inflammatory balance. For a structured approach, you can explore the book “Lose Weight Without Counting Calories”.

Reducing sugar and flour-based foods

Minimize sugar intake and limit products with flour, potatoes, rice, especially if you notice they worsen your inflammation.

Gluten

Some people choose to avoid products with gluten (especially flour) when they notice sensitivity or a correlation with symptoms.

Vegetable oils high in omega-6

Reduce vegetable oils like sunflower, soy, canola, corn, especially if your diet is already high in omega-6.

Mental state and stress

Maintaining a stable emotional state and reducing chronic stress can positively influence inflammation. Meditation is an option (e.g., guided practices; some prefer Joe Dispenza, others different methods). A simple routine: 30–60 minutes/day in silence, eyes closed, breathing calmly and training attention (when the mind wanders, gently bring it back).

Helpful note for inflammatory bowel diseases

In cases of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, some people find bone broth helpful to support the intestinal lining (you can look up recipes and preparation methods).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take these supplements if I’m on treatment?

Talk to your doctor, especially if you are taking immunosuppressive/anti-inflammatory treatments or anticoagulants. For zeolite, generally keep a 2-hour gap from medications (and 4 hours from methotrexate, if applicable).

Should I check my vitamin D levels?

Yes, it’s ideal to periodically monitor 25(OH)D. Adjusting the dose based on tests is safer than guessing.

What should I do if a supplement worsens my symptoms?

Stop the suspected supplement and consult your doctor. For AHCC, if you notice worsening symptoms, it is recommended to discontinue use.