Autoimmune disease and antioxidants?

I read that antioxidants can help with Sjogren's since they boost the immune system. But isn't that our PROBLEM with Sjogren's??? All autoimmune disorders that I have read about happen because the immune system is OVERactive. Seems to me that we need anti-inflammatories and immune system suppressants instead of immune system boosters. I would like to have your feed-back on this topic. Thanks.

DownNOutInAR,

In general, people with Lupus and/or Sjogren's should avoid things that are promoted as 'boosting' the immune system -- for the exact reason you pointed out. Most of us are on some sort of anti-inflammatory, if not regularly then at least from time-to-time as flares occur.

I myself am not sure of the antioxidants because they seem to me to be a step removed -- they indirectly, rather than directly, affect the immune system.

In any case, *always* consult with your medical team before making drastic changes in food, vitamins/supplements, OTC meds -- it is quite possible that the "standard" claims/recommendations for some of these substances are exactly the opposite if you have an autoimmune disease.

And even when you get clarifying direction from your Dr, it should not be applied to another patient -- it is the combination of meds, supplements, and how your particular instance of the disease acts that makes each of us unique in fighting these diseases.

Good luck!

Sjogren's Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder (much like arthritis or lupus) that characteristically attacks the mucous membranes and results in symptoms of a dry mouth and dry, sore eyes, fatigue, vaginal dryness, dry or rashy skin, and arthritic symptoms. Some of natural ways of curing it are hydration and lubrication, drinking plenty of water, using moisturizers, saline eye drops, humidifiers, and even chewing gum can help relieve symptoms.