Written by: Lisa Edmondson (Masters Health Coaching (HCANZA), BHsNursing (169984), PostGradDipPH, PostGradDipEd)
Autoimmune disease is often viewed purely as a genetic condition. However, research in lifestyle medicine and epigenetics shows that genes alone are rarely the full story.
Women make up the majority of autoimmune diagnoses. Chronic stress, emotional suppression, poor sleep, blood sugar instability, and environmental triggers all influence how genes are expressed.
The question is not simply: “Do I have the gene?”
The deeper question is: “What is activating it?”
The Cortisol Connection
Cortisol is essential for survival. But when it remains elevated long-term, it can disrupt multiple systems:
- Immune regulation
- Thyroid function
- Sex hormones
- Gut integrity
- Sleep cycles
- Mood stability
Many women cannot eliminate stress entirely. Instead, the body remains in a prolonged fight-or-flight state without adequate recovery. Over time, this can contribute to systemic inflammation and immune imbalance.
Common signs of adrenal and stress dysregulation include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Brain fog
- Weight gain around the abdomen
- Low libido
- Anxiety or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Cravings for sugar or salt
These symptoms are often dismissed individually but may reflect deeper stress physiology.
A Lifestyle Medicine Approach at My Wellbeing
At My Wellbeing, we focus on modifiable contributors — the factors within your control that influence inflammation and immune function.
Core Pillars of Support
1. Nervous System Regulation
Breathwork, emotional processing, boundary setting, structured rest.
2. Blood Sugar Stability
Balanced meals, protein intake, reducing inflammatory food triggers.
3. Sleep Restoration
Circadian rhythm alignment and cortisol regulation strategies.
4. Adrenal Support
Lifestyle restructuring combined with targeted adaptogenic herbs where appropriate.
5. Personalised Epigenetic Insights
Understanding how stress and environment may be influencing gene expression.
Herbal & Nutritional Support
Herbs are used to regulate, not stimulate, the immune system.
Supportive options may include:
- Ashwagandha
- Rhodiola
- Holy Basil
- Reishi mushroom
- Turmeric
- Magnesium glycinate
All recommendations are individualised and designed to complement existing medical care.
A Realistic Perspective
Autoimmune diseases are complex and require medical oversight. Lifestyle medicine does not replace conventional care.
However, research shows that stress reduction, sleep optimisation, blood sugar control, and inflammation management can significantly influence symptom severity and quality of life.
Important Disclaimer
My Wellbeing does not claim to cure autoimmune diseases. Our programs focus on supporting lifestyle factors that may influence inflammation, stress physiology, and symptom management. All clients with autoimmune conditions should remain under appropriate medical supervision.