Episode 84

Published December 10, 2024

In this episode, Dr. Sara Szal (formerly Gottfried) discusses the rising rates of autoimmunity, particularly among women, and the importance of understanding anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) testing. She emphasizes the need to explore root causes of autoimmunity, including genetic predisposition, leaky gut, and environmental triggers.

Dr. Szal and Dr. Smeaton also explore:

• Foundational approaches to managing autoimmune conditions
• The connection between reproductive hormones and autoimmune diseases
• The influence of hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, and how these changes affect various bodily systems
• The importance of diet and technology, such as continuous glucose monitors, in managing health during these transitions
• The role of different testing methods in understanding hormonal balance

Key Moments

00:00 Introduction to Autoimmunity and Women's Health 

02:50 Understanding ANA Testing and Its Implications 

07:09 Root Causes of Autoimmunity 

10:54 Foundational Approaches to Autoimmune Care 

15:45 Addressing Trauma in Autoimmune Patients 

23:23 The Role of the Microbiome in Autoimmunity 

27:39 Hormonal Influences on Autoimmune Conditions 

28:07 Understanding Hormonal Transitions in Women 

30:33 The Role of Diet and Technology in Managing Health 

33:03 Mitochondrial Health and Its Impact on Women 

36:05 Testing Methods: Serum vs. Dried Urine 

Transcript

About our speaker

Sara Szal, MD (formerly Gottfried) is a physician, researcher, and educator. She graduated from Harvard Medical School and MIT, and completed residency at UCSF, but is more likely to prescribe a CGM and personalized nutrition plan than the latest pharmaceutical. Dr. Gottfried is a global keynote speaker and the author of four New York Times bestselling books about trauma, hormones, and health. She is Clinical Assistant Professor in Dept. of Integrative Medicine and Nutritional Sciences at Thomas Jefferson University, and Director of Precision Medicine at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health. Her focus is at the interface of mental and physical health, N-of-1 trial design, personalized molecular profiling, use of wearables, and how to leverage these tools to improve health outcomes. 

Show Notes

Learn more about Dr. Sara Szal and her new book, The Autoimmune Cure, and follow Dr. Szal on Instagram @saragottfriedmd.

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Please Note: The contents of this video are for educational and informational purposes only. The information is not to be interpreted as, or mistaken for, clinical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.

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