There is a huge link between autoimmunity onset and leaky gut, also known as intestinal permeability. The small intestine especially is vulnerable to persistent inflammation and this affects its ability to absorb nutrients from food.
Detoxification and proper diet go together. Chinese medicine has always recognized the link between the liver and digestion, in fact, there is a syndrome known as “Liver attacking Spleen,” whereby stress aggravates the digestive process leading to poor or slowed motility, gas, bloating, and irregular bowel movement. This could be one of the causes of small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
In the case of bacteria growing in the small intestine, gastroenterologists recommend taking a specific type of probiotic that is more yeast based, such as Saccharomyces boulardii that can not overgrow in the small bowel since this particular issue does not respond well to traditional antibiotics. I usually also recommend a course of herbal antibiotics that can kill off persistent bacterial strains without the horrible side effects of antibiotic drugs. These are also not expensive, usually costing under $30 for a full 10-day regimen.
In today’s world it is difficult to know what to eat, especially if you have been told that you have an autoimmune problem. It isn’t just what you eat, it’s equally important what NOT to eat.
Elimination diets may be trendy, but they do work. Gluten is definitely a trigger for autoimmunity, and also tied to Hashimoto by clinical research. Sugar is also a trigger. Just eating a little sugar immediately lowers the immune system response. So whether you just have a leaky gut or autoimmunity, I recommend cutting both of these out of your diet for at least 3 weeks.
Through an interview, health history, and TCM diagnosis, Michelle will arrive at a diagnosis about your gut and detoxification status. If the liver is sluggish, a combination of acupuncture and certain supplements that contain herbs, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes may be suggested in order to boost detoxification pathways.
The liver has two important pathways. The first one involves converting and the second one eliminates. If leaky gut is severe, herbs and other supplements that promote bacterial balance and microbial health will be recommended.
Note that acupuncture is also very effective at speeding recovery and bringing down inflammatory markers. While diet alone can work, acupuncture will strengthen the whole person even better.
How does a trigger get identified?
Some examples of triggers are:
- Chronic stress such as work, relationships, or financial
- Postpartum
- Exposure to a virus or pathogen
- Trauma, of any type (i.e., physical, emotional)
- Surgeries
- Dental work
Michelle has training in functional medicine, especially with regards to nutrition and the immune system. This background along with TCM practice gives her skills in recommending ways to regulate immune responses and strengthen tissues and organs.
REFERENCES
Channel Acupuncture & Herbs 