In autoimmune diseases, the immune system can react against its own tissues, causing inflammation. In recent years, more and more data indicate that, for many people, the "starting point" may be related to the intestinal barrier and the balance of the microbiome (the so-calledgut-immune axis).
Important: The information below is for educational purposes only and does not replace consultation, diagnosis, or treatment recommended by a physician.
Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Why the gut matters in autoimmune diseases
The gut-immune axis concept emphasizes that the gut plays a major role in regulating the immune response. When the intestinal barrier is compromised and the microbiome is out of balance, persistent inflammatory signals can occur. For this reason, in addition to medical treatment, many lifestyle plans aim to:
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immunity regulation (immune modulation),
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reducing inflammation,
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supporting the intestinal barrier,
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balancing the microbiome.
In addition to the treatment recommended by your doctor, you can discuss the following measures with them.
Adjuvant measures (in addition to medical treatment)
1) Vitamin D3 + Vitamin K2 + Magnesium (bisglycinate)
Recommended dose: 1–2 capsules/day (for children: 1 capsule/day), depending on the product and your doctor's recommendation.
Monitoring: measure vitamin D levels periodically (e.g., every 6–8 months). If it reaches approximately 100 ng/ml, stop. When it falls below 60 ng/ml, you can resume (ideally with medical approval).
- Vitamin D is important for optimal immunity.
- It is associated with K2 because D can increase calcium absorption, and K2 supports the targeting of calcium to the bones.
- Magnesium is necessary for the activation of vitamin D.
2) Zeolite (e.g., Zeolite Spectrum) – digestive support and interval from medication
Recommended dose: 3 tablets in the morning + 3 tablets at lunchtime + 3 tablets in the evening.
Hydration: aim for ~2 liters of water/day.
Distance from medication: usually allow 2 hours between zeolite and medication.
Note: if your doctor has recommended methotrexate, allow 4 hours between methotrexate and zeolite.
Initial adjustment (possible temporary effects)
Some people may experience temporary constipation in the first few days (hydration helps). Temporary symptoms may also occur (e.g., digestive discomfort, headaches, dizziness). A prudent approach is to start with 1 capsule/day and gradually increase the dose (by 1 capsule/day) to the usual dose.
Recommended dosage 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 cannot swallow capsules, they can be opened and the powder mixed into water or food. If using powder: 1 capsule ≈ one teaspoon (approximate).
3) AHCC – immune modulation (use with caution if symptoms are present)
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 time, stop taking AHCC and consult your doctor.
For children: 1 capsule/day (as a guideline, depending on age/weight and medical advice).
Please note: only one type of AHCC should be taken, not all three!
4) Olive leaf extract (oleuropein) – anti-inflammatory support
Recommended dose: 70 ml/day (depending on concentration and product).
In children: 1.5–2 ml/kg/day (approximate).
Olive leaf extract contains compounds (especially oleuropein) with the potential to support inflammatory balance.
5) Probiotic – for balanced gut flora
A well-chosen probiotic can help support the microbiome, especially when digestive symptoms are present 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 adjuvants to support the inflammatory response.
Lifestyle: diet, intermittent fasting, stress
Intermittent fasting is used by many people as a strategy to support metabolism and inflammatory balance. If you want a structured approach, you can learn more in the book "Lose Weight Without Counting Calories."
Reducing sugar and flour
Reduce sugar intake to a minimum and limit flour products, potatoes, and rice, especially if you notice that they increase inflammation.
Gluten
Some people choose to avoid gluten products (especially flour) when they notice a sensitivity or correlation with symptoms.
Vegetable oils rich in omega-6
Reduce vegetable oils such as sunflower, soybean, rapeseed, and corn, especially if your diet is already rich in omega-6.
Mental state and stress
Maintaining a stable emotional state and reducing chronic stress can have a positive effect on inflammation. Meditation is one option (e.g., guided practices; some prefer Joe Dispenza, others prefer other methods). A simple routine: 30–60 minutes/day in silence, with your eyes closed, breathing calmly and training your attention (when your mind wanders, gently bring it back).
Useful note for inflammatory bowel diseases
In cases of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, some people find bone broth helpful in supporting the intestinal lining (you can search for recipes and preparation methods).
Frequently asked questions
Can I take these supplements if I am undergoing treatment?
Talk to your doctor, especially if you are taking immunosuppressive/anti-inflammatory or anticoagulant treatments. For zeolite, usually keep a 2-hour interval between doses of medication (and 4 hours for methotrexate, if applicable).
Should I check my vitamin D levels?
Yes, it is ideal to monitor 25(OH)D periodically. Adjusting the dose based on test results is safer than doing it "by ear."
What should I do if a supplement makes my symptoms worse?
Stop taking the suspicious supplement and talk to your doctor. With AHCC, if you notice an increase in symptoms, it is recommended that you stop taking it.
