69. Understanding Hashimoto’s: Root Causes, Testing, and Natural Healing

Dr. Izabella Wentz, Pharm.D., FASCP is a clinical pharmacist with a passion for healthcare. She earned her Pharm.D. at 23 from Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, and has trained in functional medicine through various institutions and is a Fellow of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. Dr. Wentz was awarded the Excellence in Innovation Award by the Illinois Pharmacists Association in 2013, and has worked as a consultant pharmacist, specializing in complex patient cases and medication safety initiatives. She was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis in 2009, leading her to research lifestyle interventions for thyroid health.

Dr. Wentz shares her personal journey today from traditional pharmacy to the realm of functional medicine, highlighting her passion for addressing root causes of health conditions. She explains the complexities of Hashimoto's, discussing the stages of its progression, the importance of early detection, and the role of lifestyle changes in lessening symptoms. Dr. Wentz offers insights into the connection between gut health and thyroid function, emphasizing the significance of addressing gut infections. She also gives a sneak peek of her upcoming podcast, "Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations," promising expert guidance for those on a thyroid health journey.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Dr. Wentz transitioned from traditional pharmacy to functional medicine.

• Why managing Hashimoto's disease requires early detection and a holistic approach.

• How lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing Hashimoto's symptoms.

• Why understanding iodine's impact on thyroid health is important in managing Hashimoto's.

• How the gut-thyroid connection affects overall thyroid health and symptom management.

• Why it's important to balance iodine with selenium and address gut issues before supplementation.

• How timing of lab tests is crucial for accurate thyroid medication management.

• Why patient education is key in avoiding over-treatment with thyroid medications.

• How addressing root causes like nutrient deficiencies and stress can optimize thyroid health.

• Why intestinal permeability is a critical factor in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto's.

• Why factors like TSH levels need to be considered in thyroid treatment.

• Why comprehensive lifestyle and dietary interventions are pivotal in thyroid wellness.

• How Dr. Wentz’s books and resources provide foundational knowledge for managing Hashimoto's disease.

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Dr. Wentz’s website: https://thyroidpharmacist.com

Dr. Wentz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izabellawentzpharmd