The Link Between Viral Infections and Autoimmune Flares

And How to Naturally Support Your Immune System Through Food & Natural Medicine

Autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis affect millions worldwide. While each condition is unique, a common thread that often emerges for many is the connection between viral infections and autoimmune flare-ups. If you’ve ever noticed a spike in symptoms after a cold, flu, or even COVID-19, you’re not imagining it.

At Infinite Health Studio, we’re passionate about uncovering root causes and empowering you with natural, evidence-based strategies to help manage autoimmune responses — starting with awareness and nourishment.

How Viruses Can Trigger Autoimmune Flares

Viral infections can trigger or exacerbate autoimmune conditions in a few key ways:

1. Molecular Mimicry

Some viruses, like Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), carry proteins that closely resemble proteins in our own tissues. When your immune system targets the virus, it may accidentally target your tissues too — this is known as molecular mimicry.

2. Immune System Overload

Infection can send your immune system into overdrive, increasing inflammation. For those with autoimmune conditions, this heightened immune response can lead to a flare-up of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, or brain fog.

3. Latent Viral Reactivation

Some viruses never fully leave the body — EBV and herpes viruses can lie dormant and reactivate during times of stress or immune suppression, leading to renewed autoimmune activity.

Natural Strategies to Support Your Body

While we can’t always avoid viral exposure, we can support our immune and autoimmune balance naturally.

🍃 1. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Food is medicine. Prioritize:

• Leafy greens & colourful vegetables – packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients that reduce oxidative stress.

• Omega-3 fats – from wild-caught salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts or algae oils to lower inflammation.

• Sulphur-rich foods – like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables to support detoxification and immune modulation.

• Fermented foods – such as sauerkraut, kimchi and coconut kefir to nourish your gut microbiome.

• Limit gluten, dairy, sugar, and processed foods – these can exacerbate inflammation in sensitive individuals.

  
  

🌿 2. Herbal and Natural Medicine Allies

Certain herbs and nutrients can help regulate immune activity and reduce flare severity:

• Echinacea & Andrographis – antiviral herbs that also modulate immune activity.

• Vitamin D – a critical immune regulator, often low in those with autoimmune conditions.

• Zinc & Vitamin C – essential for viral defense and tissue repair.

• Curcumin (from turmeric) – reduces inflammation and supports healthy immune signaling.

• Medicinal mushrooms (e.g., Reishi, Shiitake, Turkey Tail) – support immune balance, not overstimulation.

  
  

Note: Herbal medicines should be selected based on your unique constitution and health history — always consult with a qualified practitioner (like myself!) before starting anything new.

🧘‍♀️ 3. Lifestyle is Medicine, Too

Your immune system doesn’t operate in a vacuum — it’s deeply connected to your stress levels, sleep quality, and emotional health.

• Prioritise restorative sleep – aim for 7–9 hours.

• Practice daily stress management – breathing exercises, yoga, nature walks.

• Limit environmental toxin exposure – including synthetic fragrances, plastics, and pesticides, which can disrupt immune regulation.

  
  

Ready to Take Control of Your Health?

Autoimmune conditions are complex, but with the right support, you can live in harmony with your body. If you’re struggling with post-viral symptoms or autoimmune flares, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

At Infinite Health Studio, I offer personalised naturopathic and functional medicine consultations to uncover the root cause of your symptoms and create a tailored plan to support your immune resilience — naturally.

📍 In-person in Shenton Park | 🌐 Online Australia-wide

👉 Book your consultation today and start your journey toward better energy, reduced symptoms, and vibrant health.