I am not really sure. I do know that I was really in need of hydration and had a week of constipation. I think it helped the virus, not the MCTD. Methotrexate was really great for me, as it eliminated much of the swelling and pain. However, changing diet to non processed and getting in daily walks (no matter what) and other movement like water exercise and pilates worked out well. Others who are doing well say the same thing.