D.A.R.T – Dietary Autoimmunity Reduction Therapy
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The book is the culmination of more than 20 years of scientific research by dedicated physicians and scientists all over the world who have published their work in a variety of respected journals
WHY IS THE DIET IMPORTANT IN LUPUS?
In the last fifteen years, extensive research has identified that in the foods Americans typically eat, specific components stimulate the body's immune system to attack. By minimizing these components in the diet, the signs and symptoms of Lupus can be reduced.
A new diet is available which is designed to reduce the overactivity of the immune system – the root cause of Lupus. Based on extensive research, the diet has been constructed so as to reduce the signs and symptoms of Lupus. It does this using two mechanisms: reduction of substances found in the usual diet which stimulate the immune system to attack, and diminishing the ability of the immune system to overreact.
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THE NEW D.A.R.T DIET?
D.A.R.T. is the short name for Dietary Autoimmunity Reduction Therapy. It is a diet program which has been developed to minimize the overactivity of the immune system seen in Lupus patients. It does this by restricting components of the diet which are known to stimulate the attack of the immune system, and the diet also is designed to reduce the production of antibodies. It is based on extensive research, and has been designed by Dr. Baranowitz with the assistance of a research dietitian.
HOW IS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM INVOLVED IN LUPUS?
Our immune system is made up of cells which are designed to attack invaders such as bacteria and viruses. In Lupus patients, the immune system gets confused, and persistently attacks the person's own cells. This process leads to the damage of many body systems, including the skin and joints, and sometimes kidney, lung, brain and other organs. Most of the damage done by the immune system is thought to be carried out by substances manufactured by the immune system cells. These substances are called antibodies and are carried through the body by the blood.
WHERE IS THE D.A.R.T. DIET AVAILABLE?
Dr. Baranowitz is making the new D.A.R.T. Diet Program available to patients in his practice in Narberth, PA, near Philadelphia. The program involves initial consultation and testing, followed by monthly visits. Patients are expected to consult with an experienced research dietitian and are given detailed instructions with sample meal plans. Patients are asked to keep diaries of their actual eating history and their symptoms. Periodic tests of blood and other indicators are taken to evaluate the patient's progress.