Autoimmunity and gastrointestinal disorders have become an increasing epidemic. There are many different autoimmune diseases within all specialties, and all of these are looked at differently; however, they all have the same common triggers. Therefore, we can take a similar approach in treating all auto- immune disorders. If we know what causes the immune system to attack itself and we know some of the triggers that cause a malfunction in the immune system, we can successfully treat these conditions. Dr. Jurgelewicz will take you through a functional medicine approach to autoimmune disorders. He will explain the environmental triggers that contribute to these conditions and how to assess overall gastrointestinal health by comprehensive molecular evaluation of the gut microbiome, gut inflammation, mucosal immunity, and digestive function. This includes an assessment of bacteria, protozoal, viral pathogens, opportunistic, and beneficial organisms. Dr. Jurgelewicz will then discuss an integrated treatment approach of autoimmune and gastrointestinal disorders with personal case studies.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify environmental triggers that contribute to autoimmunity
- Recognize the role of clinical laboratory testing to assess autoimmune dysfunction
- Determine dietary interventions and nutritional therapeutics for patients presenting with autoimmune disorders
