Ankylosing spondylitis

Bechterew's disease (ankylosing spondylitis) is a chronic inflammation of cartilage tissues. It most commonly affects the spinal vertebrae and the eye's iris, but it can also impact joints and sometimes the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis). The exact cause of the disease is not fully understood. We know it is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system attacks itself. This triggers inflammation, which gradually spreads and deepens.
The disease most often appears between the ages of 15 and 30, much more frequently in men, and begins with pain in the sacral area, which can radiate to the lower limbs. Later, the continually increasing inflammatory changes cause calcification of the attachments, tendons, ligaments, and intervertebral joints, leading to painful movement restrictions. In advanced stages, the spine becomes rigid and deformed. The result is often severe and painful mobility issues and restrictions in breathing mechanics.

Bechterew's disease is not completely curable with today's treatment options. Treatment requires a long-term specialized approach, with Western medicine focusing primarily on administering medication to suppress inflammation through the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or biological therapy.
Regular exercise and rehabilitation are absolutely essential, as they prevent joint fusions and maintain mobility. With appropriate rehabilitation, it is possible to slow down the progression of the disease and its further development.
It's also crucial to properly adapt long-term postures, such as the positions at work and during sleep.

Impact of Diet on Bechterew's Disease

The quality of diet affects the course of this disease, and it is important to monitor a few key parameters:

1. Maintain the acid-base balance in its "zone of optimal functioning."
This mainly involves ensuring an adequate intake of proteins, a sensible ratio of key minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, chlorine, iodine, etc.) or sufficient fiber, while avoiding typically acid-forming foods and their preparation methods.

2. Aim to support gut microbiome diversity.
Modern research confirms that the level of functioning (not just) of the immune system depends on the spectrum of microorganisms inhabiting our gut (primarily the large intestine). In the diet, this mainly entails ensuring sufficient sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber and regularly incorporating fermented foods.