At MGI Clinics, we’ve helped thousands of clients reverse autoimmune conditions like lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, and mixed connective tissue disorder using the Mind Gut Immunity Method. These conditions, classified as ANA+ autoimmune diseases, often leave individuals feeling like there’s no path to recovery. However, addressing common missteps can empower patients to take control of their health and achieve long-lasting relief.

Here, we’ll explore six common mistakes made by people with lupus and ANA+ autoimmune conditions, and how avoiding them can lead to a more natural and effective path to healing.

‍1. Ignoring Bowel Movements

Your gut health is deeply tied to your immune system, with over 80% of immune cells residing in the gut’s mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). When bowel movements are irregular, harmful bacteria can overpopulate the gut, triggering systemic inflammation.

Conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and leaky gut syndrome are frequently linked to lupus and Sjogren’s. Overgrowth of pathogens such as Candida or Clostridium difficile further aggravates symptoms by increasing histamine levels, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and joint pain.

Actionable Step: Maintain regular bowel movements through a high-fiber diet, proper hydration, and probiotic-rich foods to support the gut microbiome. Advanced testing can identify imbalances and guide personalized interventions.

‍2. Consuming Excessive Sugar and Processed Foods

Sugars and processed foods are significant triggers for inflammation in autoimmune diseases. These foods disrupt gut microbiota and increase oxidative stress, activating pro-inflammatory pathways like NF-kappa B.

Processed foods also inhibit key antioxidants like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), which are critical for tissue repair and immune regulation.

Actionable Step: Eliminate processed foods and added sugars, focusing instead on whole, nutrient-dense options. This change can significantly lower inflammation and support the body’s natural repair mechanisms.

‍3. Overlooking the Power of Phytonutrients

Many trendy diets, such as paleo or carnivore, lack the essential plant-based compounds needed for optimal health. Phytonutrients—found in vegetables, fruits, and herbs—are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that regulate immune responses and protect against cellular damage.

For lupus and other ANA+ conditions, incorporating foods rich in chlorophyll, phenols, and thiocyanates can help counteract inflammation at the cellular level.

Actionable Step: Adopt a phytonutrient-rich diet tailored to your individual needs. Include a variety of colorful vegetables, leafy greens, and plant-based oils to promote gut and immune health.

‍4. Neglecting Stress and Trauma

Stress and unresolved trauma are significant contributors to autoimmune inflammation. Chronic stress dysregulates the gut-brain axis, leading to increased cortisol levels and inflammation.

Renowned physician Dr. Gabor Maté emphasizes that trauma often disconnects individuals from their needs, resulting in self-neglect and worsening symptoms. Addressing both capital T trauma (e.g., abuse, loss) and small t trauma (e.g., unmet emotional needs) is crucial for holistic healing.

Actionable Step: Engage in mindfulness practices, therapy, or trauma-awareness programs to address stress and emotional well-being. At MGI Clinics, we offer tailored coaching to help clients navigate these challenges.

‍5. Overlooking the Importance of Sleep

Sleep is the body’s natural repair mechanism. Poor or insufficient sleep increases inflammatory markers like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), exacerbating lupus and other autoimmune conditions.

Restorative sleep also regulates stress hormones, improves gut health, and boosts overall resilience.

Actionable Step: Prioritize quality sleep by creating a calming bedtime routine, limiting screen time, and addressing any underlying sleep disorders. Tracking sleep patterns can also help identify areas for improvement.

‍6. Leading a Sedentary Lifestyle

A lack of physical activity contributes to higher levels of inflammation in autoimmune conditions. Exercise triggers the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.

For individuals with lupus, gentle resistance training and low-impact cardio can improve strength, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall well-being without overstraining the body.

Actionable Step: Incorporate regular, tailored exercise into your routine. Focus on activities that are enjoyable and sustainable, such as walking, swimming, or yoga. Work with a professional to design a plan that accommodates your physical abilities and health goals.

‍Achieving Long-Term Relief Naturally

Lupus and other ANA+ autoimmune conditions can feel overwhelming, but by addressing these six common mistakes, you can take significant steps toward reversing symptoms naturally. At MGI Clinics, we provide personalized guidance to optimize gut health, nutrition, stress management, sleep, and exercise—all key components of our Mind Gut Immunity Method.

Our approach is designed to empower clients to live symptom-free without reliance on medication. If you’re ready to transform your health and take control of your autoimmune condition, we invite you to schedule a discovery call with our team today.

For personalized guidance and support, schedule a discovery call with Dr. Chanu Dasari at MGI Clinics. Our Case Studies page features stories of patients who have successfully managed their conditions through the Mind-Gut-Immunity Method. 

Let us help you achieve the relief you deserve—naturally and holistically.

Start Your Journey to Better Health Today

Discover the transformative power of the Mind-Gut-Immunity Method! Over the past decade, Dr. Dasari has helped countless clients reduce inflammation and find relief from autoimmune issues, often in just 3-6 weeks. Now, you can start your journey to better health with our free training. Click the link below, choose your condition, and learn how our proven approach can help you feel better fast.

About the Author

Dr. Chanu Dasari, a distinguished clinician with a career spanning renowned institutions like Vanderbilt University, Oxford University, and the University of California, has made significant contributions to medical research and practice. His work, published in top peer-reviewed scientific journals and adopted by the US Department of Health, highlights his commitment to advancing healthcare. Dr. Dasari is board-certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties and the American College of Surgeons, with a specialization in hernia repair, gallbladder removal, cysts, digestive disease, and cancer. As the founder of the Mind-Gut-Immunity Clinic, he draws from personal experience with autoimmune and digestive dysfunction to lead a team dedicated to patient-centered care using evidence-based protocols.