18: Root Cause Focus: Is A Parasitic Infection the Cause of Your Hashimoto's?

In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz shares her personal journey and professional insights on the potential links between parasitic infections and autoimmune conditions, specifically focusing on Hashimoto's, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic hives.  Dr. Wentz discusses the "three-legged stool of autoimmunity" theory proposed by Dr. Alessio Fasano, which suggests that for an autoimmune condition to develop, three factors must be present: genetic predisposition, an environmental trigger, and intestinal permeability (or leaky gut). She then delves into how addressing these components can lead to symptom relief and even remission. Listeners will hear about her own healing journey, as well as a particular protozoa, Blastocystis hominis, she uncovered in a large percentage of her clients with Hashimoto’s, using functional medicine stool tests. She gets into the research behind this protozoa.  Dr. Wentz’s mission is to help empower people through advocating the importance of individualized care, understanding your body, and encouraging listeners to be proactive health detectives in their own journeys. Tune in to learn about:   Potential links between parasites and Hashimoto's – How infections like Blastocystis hominis may contribute to autoimmune conditions, IBS and hives. The three-legged stool of autoimmunity – Genetic factors, triggers, and leaky gut are key factors with autoimmune disease. Personal healing stories – Dr. Wentz shares her experiences with Hashimoto's and IBS, illustrating the connection between gut health and thyroid function. Testing for gut infections – Learn about what tests you can take to help you uncover some key infections and other gut issues.  Treatment options – Learn about conventional and natural approaches to treating parasitic infections and restoring gut health. This episode offers some amazing tips for anyone who is looking to understand their root cause, and suspects that their gut health might be an issue.  Tune in to learn how you can take charge of your health and uncover the root causes of your symptoms! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices