AUTOIMMUNE CLINIC
LONDON
The functional medicine model is an individualised, person focused, science based approach
THIS MODEL ALLOWS PATIENTS AND PRACTITIONERS TO WORK TOGETHER TO ADDRESS THE UNDERLYING CAUSES OF DISEASE AND PROMOTE OPTIMAL WELLNESS.
While conventional medicine focuses on diagnosing a disease and how to manage symptoms as the disease progresses, functional medicine looks at underlying factors of what caused the disease or symptom in the first place and aims to restore balance and health.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE LOOKS AT THE INTERACTIONS AMONG GENETIC, DIETARY, LIFESTYLE AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS THAT CAN INFLUENCE LONG-TERM HEALTH AND COMPLEX, CHRONIC DISEASE SUCH AS AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE.
Unfortunately, our medical system is poorly equipped to deal with chronic illness and many people don't get the help or support they need. A functional medicine practitioner aims to treat the person who has the symptom or disease, not the disease itself. For example, two people may share a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, but their genetic make up, past history, diet and environment are different, so would be their treatment plan. The diagnosis itself isn't the determining factor.
'Functional Medicine is medicine by cause, not by symptom. Practitioners don't treat disease. We treat your body’s ecosystem. We get rid of the bad stuff, put back in the good stuff, and because your body is an intelligent system - it does the rest' ​​
DR MARK HYMAN
The Functional Medicine Approach to Autoimmunity
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Kharrazian Institute with Dr Datis Kharrazian:Male and Female Hormone Imbalance Throughout the Lifespan Chronic Infections Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications​ Cardiovascular and Neurovascular Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Childhood Development Disorders Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Chronic Fatigue and Pain Syndromes Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Cognitive Decline and Dementia Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Infertility, Prenatal Care, and Maternal Health Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Diabetes and Dysglycemia Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Neuroinflammation Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Hashimoto’s Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Autoimmunity Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Gastrointestinal Clinical Strategies and Treatment Applications Plus: Clinical Mastership Program: 100 hours of education with Dr Datis Kharrazian
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Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM):Applying Functional Medicine in Clinical Practice - AFMCP​ Biotransformation Advanced Practice Module Cardiometabolic Advanced Practice Module GI Advanced Practice Module Immune Advanced Practice Module
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The Shoemaker Protocol for Biotoxin illness:Certified Proficiency Partner
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The SIBO Doctor (Dr. Nirala Jacobi):The SIBO Mastery Program with Dr Nirala Jacobi Navigating the Pediatric Gut with Dr Whitney Hayes & Dr Megan Taylor
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Cogence Immunology with Dr Yannuck:Most comprehensive training on functional immunology
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Autoimmune Paleo Diet (AIP) CertificationAIP Certified Health Coach
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Apex Seminars:Mastering Blood Chemistry with Dr Eric Dorninger Mastering Brain Chemistry with Dr Eric Dorninger
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Dr Jason Hawrelak:Gastrointestinal Health Masterclass
Whilst conventional treatments for autoimmune diseases often focus on managing symptoms or suppressing the immune system, functional medicine offers a holistic approach that aims to address the underlying causes and restore balance to the body.
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Although there is no one set protocol for autoimmunity, our key strategies for supporting our clients with an autoimmune disease and their overall well-being include or more of the following:
Autoimmunity
OUR APPROACH TO HELPING PEOPLE WITH AUTOIMMUNITY AND UNEXPLAINED SYMPTOMS
Over the past 50 years, there has been a significant increase in the incidence and rates of autoimmune diseases. This rise cannot be solely attributed to improved diagnostic capabilities but rather indicates a genuine increase in affected individuals.
APPROXIMATELY 10% OF THE GLOBAL POPULATION IS IMPACTED BY AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES, WHICH IS A SUBSTANTIAL NUMBER
It is highly likely that you personally know someone who is affected by some form of autoimmune disease. While autoimmunity is often considered to have a genetic component, research suggests that genetics only account for approximately 30% of cases. This indicates that the majority of autoimmune diseases are influenced by other factors such as environmental factors, dietary choices, infections, and imbalances in the gut.
IF YOUR DIET OR ENVIRONMENT IS CONTRIBUTING TO YOUR ILLNESS, IT IMPLIES THAT THERE ARE ACTIONABLE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO ADDRESS IT.
The human body is not adequately equipped to handle the increasingly toxic environment we live in. While our world rapidly evolves, our genes do not evolve at the same pace. When a genetic predisposition to autoimmunity is combined with factors such as poor gut health due to excessive antibiotic use, inadequate nutrition, and a lack of plant-based foods, it creates an ideal environment for the development of autoimmune diseases.
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Recognising the impact of diet and environment on our health provides an opportunity for intervention. By making conscious choices to improve our diet, minimise exposure to toxins, and prioritize gut health, we can potentially mitigate the risk of autoimmune diseases and support overall well-being.
Autoimmunity is a condition characterised by the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells in the body.
Our immune system's primary role is to protect us against pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites that pose a threat to our health. Additionally, it helps clear unhealthy cells and aids in repairing damage caused to the body during injuries. However, when our immune system malfunctions, it begins to attack our own cells and tissues, leading to damage. As this damage accumulates, symptoms develop, and the affected body functions may be compromised.
There are more than 80 different conditions identified as falling under the umbrella of autoimmunity. Moreover, numerous other conditions are believed to have a chronic inflammatory component, indicating the wide range of disorders associated with immune system dysfunction.
Most common autoimmune diseases
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS (RA)
SYSTEM LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS (SLE)
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)
COELIAC DISEASE
INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
CROHN'S & ULCERATIVE COLITIS
HASHIMOTO'S THYROIDITIS
PERNICIOUS ANAEMIA (B12 DEFICIENCY)
SJOGREN'S SYNDROME
VITILIGO
PSORIASIS
TYPE 1 DIABETES
ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
ALOPECIA AREATA
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPID SYNDROME (APS)
SJOGREN'S SYNDROME
MIXED CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE
Are you experiencing ongoing symptoms without a diagnosis?
Many individuals come to us with similar experiences. Despite seeing doctors and undergoing various investigations, they are told everything appears normal. However, they still don’t feel well.
Living with chronic and unexplained symptoms can be a daily struggle. Fatigue, brain fog, difficulty focusing, and unexplained reactions to food become part of everyday life. Symptoms can vary greatly from one day to the next, leaving individuals feeling uncertain and uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, 45% of people with autoimmunity are often labeled as hypochondriacs by their doctors in the early stages. This can lead to feelings of being misunderstood and not taken seriously. Many individuals become hesitant to discuss their symptoms with their doctor due to fear of not being believed.
DO ANY OF THESE SEEM FAMILIAR TO YOU?
If this resonates with you, we understand your frustration and are here to help. Our clinic takes a comprehensive approach to investigate further and provide support. We believe in addressing the underlying causes and finding solutions that improve your well-being.
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Autoimmunity has been described as the “invisible” epidemic by author Donna Jackson Nakazawa in her book “The Autoimmune Epidemic.” It often begins with subtle changes, with symptoms gradually creeping in and initially going unnoticed. People may adapt and live with these symptoms until they become more challenging. When they eventually seek medical help, they are often told that nothing is wrong. Can you relate to this experience?
Do we know what causes autoimmunity?
We now know that multiple factors are involved in the development of autoimmune disease.
Most cases will share the following 3 factors:
WHY DOES IT TAKE SO LONG TO GET A DIAGNOSIS?
Autoimmunity is a gradual process that often takes years, if not decades, to progress from silent autoimmunity to full-blown autoimmune disease. Many individuals find themselves in the middle, experiencing autoimmune processes within their bodies and experiencing symptoms, but struggling to receive a diagnosis due to insufficient damage for identification.
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Unfortunately, some doctors may adopt a wait-and-observe approach, delaying intervention until the autoimmune condition progresses enough to warrant medication. For instance, in the case of Hashimoto’s, doctors may wait until the thyroid gland is significantly damaged before prescribing thyroid hormone replacement.
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​However, it is important to recognise the missed opportunities in this approach. The more advanced the autoimmune disease becomes, the greater the damage inflicted on the body, making it more challenging to reverse the course. Early intervention is key to changing the disease’s trajectory and achieving better outcomes.
Leaky Gut &
Autoimmunity
LEAKY GUT SYNDROME, ALSO KNOWN AS INTESTINAL PERMEABILITY
This syndrome refers to a breakdown in the lining of the intestines, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and microbes to pass through into the bloodstream. This can trigger inflammation and may contribute to the development or worsening of autoimmunity