There may be a link between between processed foods and the rising incidence of   autoimmune diseases, a new study says.

Studies show that autoimmune diseases, in which the body attacks and damages its own tissue, are on the rise. Examples include celiac disease, lupus, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune hepatitis, and Crohn’s disease.

Multiple causes have been proposed for this increases, but a research team from Israel and Germany say they have found evidence that the chemicals and additives found in processed foods may be playing a role. 

Many autoimmune diseases stem from damage to the functioning of the tight-junctions that protect the intestinal mucosa. When functioning normally, tight-junctions serve as a barrier against bacteria, toxins, allergens and carcinogens, protecting the immune system from them. Damage to the tight-junctions (also known as “leaky gut”) leads to the development of autoimmune diseases.

Processed foods, which are packaged in bags, cans and boxes, and contain food additives, chemicals and preservatives, now make up a large portion of people's diets.

The researchers say their study shows that processed foods contain at least seven common food additives weaken the tight-junctions: glucose (sugars), sodium (salt), fat solvents (emulsifiers), organic acids, gluten, microbial transglutaminase (a special enzyme that serves as food protein “glue”) and nanometric particles.

They hope their study, which appears in Autoimmunity Reviews, will persuade food regulators to take a closer look at regulating such food additives. 

They also advise people with autoimmune diseases, and those who have a family background of such diseases, to consider avoiding processed foods when possible.