How Functional Medicine Treats Autoimmune Diseases in Franklin TN
Autoimmune diseases, which was ‘thought’ to occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, have become increasingly prevalent. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are just a few examples of the more than 80 identified autoimmune disorders. While conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management through pharmaceuticals, functional medicine adopts a holistic and personalized approach to identify and address the root causes of these diseases. What we have realized with scientific research and functional medicine testing is that the body is not in fact attacking itself, it is attempting to attack the pathogens and toxins that are encased in a biofilm. Because the biofilm matrix is made of a slimy outer layer that can incorporate the body’s own minerals, the immune factors cannot get inside this encasement, leading to inflammation. The body’s attempt to continuously attack a pathogen that it cannot, creates more inflammation. This is an autoimmune disease.
Understanding Functional Medicine
Functional medicine is a patient-centered approach that seeks to uncover and treat the underlying causes of illness rather than merely addressing symptoms. It views the body as an interconnected system where imbalances in one area can impact overall health. Our Functional medicine practitioner in Franklin TN uses a combination of detailed patient histories, advanced diagnostic testing, and individualized treatment plans to restore balance and improve well-being.
The Functional Medicine Approach to Autoimmune Diseases
1. Identifying Triggers
Functional medicine emphasizes identifying and addressing potential triggers of autoimmune responses. Common triggers include:
- Chronic Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections can overstimulate the immune system.
- Environmental Toxins: Exposure to heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxins can disrupt immune function.
- Food Sensitivities and Allergies: Gluten, dairy, and other foods are common culprits in exacerbating autoimmune symptoms.
- Gut Health Imbalances: Dysbiosis, or an imbalance of gut bacteria, can compromise intestinal integrity, leading to a “leaky gut.” This allows undigested food particles and toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering immune responses.
2. Restoring Gut Health
The gut plays a pivotal role in immune system regulation. Functional medicine practitioners often employ the “5R Program” to repair gut health:
- Remove: Eliminate harmful substances such as processed foods, allergens, and pathogens.
- Replace: Reintroduce essential digestive enzymes and nutrients to support digestion.
- Reinoculate: Restore healthy gut flora with probiotics and prebiotics.
- Repair: Use nutrients like glutamine, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to heal the gut lining.
- Rebalance: Address lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress, and exercise to promote gut health.
3. Balancing the Immune System
Functional medicine aims to modulate, rather than suppress, the immune system. Strategies include:
- Dietary Changes: Anti-inflammatory diets rich in whole, unprocessed foods, healthy fats, and colorful vegetables help reduce systemic inflammation.
- Nutritional Supplements: Vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, and selenium are often used to support immune regulation.
- Herbal Remedies: Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and immune-modulating herbs like reishi mushroom can help balance immune function.
4. Reducing Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of autoimmune diseases. Functional medicine employs various strategies to reduce inflammation, such as:
- Elimination Diets: Temporarily removing common inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, soy, and sugar to identify sensitivities.
- Detoxification: Supporting the body’s natural detox pathways through hydration, sweating, and liver-supportive nutrients.
- Stress Management: Chronic stress exacerbates inflammation. Mindfulness, yoga, and other relaxation techniques are key components of treatment.
5. Personalized Treatment Plans
Functional medicine recognizes that no two individuals are the same. Treatment plans are tailored based on a patient’s genetic predispositions, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. Advanced testing methods, such as hormone panels, nutrient profiles, and gut microbiome analysis, guide personalized interventions.
Benefits of the Functional Medicine Approach
The functional medicine model provides several advantages for individuals with autoimmune diseases:
- Root Cause Resolution: By addressing underlying triggers, patients may experience long-term relief rather than temporary symptom suppression.
- Whole-Body Healing: Functional medicine considers all aspects of health, including mental, emotional, and social factors.
- Patient Empowerment: Education and collaboration empower patients to take an active role in their healing journey.
Challenges and Considerations
While functional medicine offers promising solutions, it requires a commitment to lifestyle changes, which can be challenging for some patients yet worth the effort. Additionally, the cost of advanced testing and supplements may not be covered by insurance, making it less accessible for certain individuals. Collaboration between functional and conventional medicine practitioners can bridge these gaps, ensuring comprehensive care. Hopefully that will be on the menu for the future. Our Functional Medicine Practitioner in Franklin TN currently accepts cash, credit or HSA cards to pay for services until insurance companies jump on board.
Conclusion
Functional medicine provides a revolutionary approach to treating autoimmune diseases by focusing on root causes and individualized care. By addressing triggers, restoring gut health, modulating the immune system, eradicating pathogens and reducing inflammation, functional medicine offers hope for those seeking lasting relief. With its emphasis on holistic well-being and patient empowerment, functional medicine is redefining the landscape of autoimmune disease treatment. If you are looking for a Functional Medicine Practitioner in Franklin or Nashville, please give us a call to discuss your needs. We are the autoimmune disease specialists.