Understanding Autoimmune Disorders

A healthy and functioning immune system is central to your body’s ability to protect itself from bacteria, viruses, toxins and even cancerous cells. Unfortunately, it is possible for the immune system to go overboard when trying to protect the body. An autoimmune disorder occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks healthy body tissue. About 8 percent of the US population is affected by one of the 80+ distinct autoimmune disorders, with multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis being among the most common.