Functional Medicine & Autoimmune Health: An Integrative Approach
Autoimmune Disease has become increasingly more common, so if you suffer from an autoimmune condition, you are not alone. It is estimated that 1 in 15 people have an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases can lead to a variety of conditions. For example, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis and myasthenia gravis are all conditions resulting from an unhealthy immune response.
At South Florida Integrative Health Center, we take an in-depth look at the root causes of your autoimmune condition. As a result, we take the time to create a personalized program based on your individual needs. Our approach is integrative and evidence-based. We look at all contributors to your autoimmunity and provide solutions that work to improve your unwanted immune response.
Based on functional medicine test results, lifestyle, and individual needs, Dr. Durrell will determine your specific imbalances and dysfunction. From this, he will develop a program as unique as you are. Only the highest-quality professional-grade supplements are used to bring the body back to good health. Our personalized and convenient app will help you track food, activity, and communicate with your practitioner. Additionally, you will receive daily reminders to help with recipes and weekly shopping lists.
With personalized care, you’ll learn to manage autoimmune symptoms and feel empowered to live your best life.
FAQs
Yes. Our program improves overall health. Our personalized program decreases the burden on the immune system over-reactivity.
We help to save our patients money by running lab work through insurance. However, insurance coverage for lab work is not guaranteed. If you are planning to use insurance, checking with your insurance provider is recommended. No insurance? No problem. We offer labs at a highly discounted rate. We also accept FSA/HSA, but these appointments must be booked by calling our office at 305-799-1263.
Selected Topics in Autoimmune Health
Autoimmune Conditions : Identifying Risk Factors and Potential Triggers; Quality of Sleep, Nutrition, Exercise, Stress Levels & Environmental Exposure to Chemicals
Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. While the exact mechanism behind this is still unknown, there are several possible causes and risk factors associated with these conditions.
One theory is that autoimmune diseases may have a genetic component. Certain individuals have a predisposition to developing these conditions. Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins and infections have also been linked to triggering autoimmune responses in the body. Additionally, certain medications and other dysfunctions within the body can cause autoimmune disease to develop. For example, hormonal or digestive imbalances may contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.
It is important to note that autoimmune diseases have multiple causes and affect people of all ages and genders. Some individuals may also have a higher risk of developing these conditions. For example, those with a family history of autoimmune diseases or certain ethnic backgrounds.
While the exact triggers for autoimmune diseases vary from person to person, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the potential risk factors and take appropriate steps to manage their health. Seeking medical advice, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and managing stress levels are essential strategies in minimizing the risk of developing autoimmune disorders.
Overall, autoimmune diseases are complex conditions with a wide range of causes and risk factors. Understanding these factors can help individuals take proactive steps to protect their health and manage their autoimmune disease.
Functional Medicine & Autoimmune Health: Natural Treatment, Herbal Remedies, Nutrients, Vitamins and Diet for Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease, occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. Conventional medicine aims to suppress immune responses using immune suppressants but often does not address the root cause. Functional medicine’s approach to autoimmune health focuses on getting to the root cause of the problem.
There are natural treatment options available that focus on supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Herbal medicines, including turmeric and ginger, have shown promising results in managing autoimmune conditions due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, certain nutrients and vitamins can play a crucial role in reducing the inflammatory responses associated with autoimmune diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseeds, have been shown to help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
Diet also plays a significant role in autoimmune disease management. Food sensitivities can trigger immune responses, so identifying and avoiding trigger foods is essential. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish, should be incorporated into the diet.
Addressing the gut health is crucial as it impacts the immune system. Environmental factors and nutrition can influence the activation of genes in the microbiome. Heavy metal toxicity, hormonal and microbiome imbalances can lead to chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Functional medicine approaches autoimmune conditions by looking at the entire body system. Our functional medicine approach uses a blend of traditional and holistic medicine. We put your entire health picture together and take a holistic approach to health. For example, specific tests, such as food testing, can be used to identify triggers and provide tailored treatment options.
In summary, natural treatment options, herbal remedies, nutrients, vitamins, and a healthy diet can help manage autoimmune diseases by supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation. Prioritizing gut health and addressing environmental factors are also vital for effective natural treatment.
Functional Medicine & Autoimmune Health: An Integrative Approach
An integrative approach to managing autoimmune diseases is becoming increasingly popular, as people seek alternative methods to conventional treatments. This approach combines natural remedies and lifestyle interventions to address the root causes of autoimmunity. Overall health and well-being is optimized.
Functional remedies, such as yoga and meditation, play a crucial role in managing autoimmune diseases. These practices help reduce stress, which is known to trigger flare-ups in many autoimmune conditions. Mind calming and relaxation promoting yoga and meditation can help regulate immune responses and promote a sense of well-being.
In addition to incorporating functional remedies, specific supplements and nutrients have shown promise in decreasing inflammation caused by autoimmunity. Glutathione, vitamin D, curcumin, N-acetyl cysteine, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids have all been shown to modulate the immune system. As a result, inflammatory markers associated with autoimmune diseases are reduced.
Furthermore, lifestyle interventions, such as maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and avoiding environmental toxins, can also play a significant role in managing autoimmune conditions. Eliminating food sensitivities, reducing exposure to heavy metals, and addressing imbalances in the gut microbiome can all help decrease systemic inflammation and improve overall health.
While the integrative approach to autoimmune disease management may not be a cure-all, it offers a holistic perspective that addresses the underlying factors contributing to autoimmunity. By combining natural remedies, functional remedies, and lifestyle interventions, individuals with autoimmune diseases can take control of their health and work towards symptom management and improved quality of life.