MY STORY

My passion for autoimmune disease stems from my own personal battle. For many years, I suffered from a hormonal imbalance known as hypothyroidism. I experienced symptoms such as hair loss, constipation, weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, brain fog and chronic fatigue. My doctor agreed that my thyroid was not functioning optimally, but chose to take a wait-and-see approach while my health continued to deteriorate.

I decided to take my health into my own hands and seek out a naturopath, who eventually diagnosed me with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. I started taking natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medication and after a few months, began to feel like myself again. But the thought of relying on a pill for the rest of my life didn’t sit well with me. And I knew that medication was only a band-aid for what was really going on in my body. I started researching for natural alternatives and enrolled at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. I began studying nutrition and working with a naturopathic doctor who focused on treating the root cause of my illness.

When you have one autoimmune disease, it’s not uncommon to develop a second or a third. It wasn’t long until I began experiencing painful periods, mood swings, bowel and bladder problems. A few month’s later I found myself in the hospital with severe abdominal pain. An ultrasound suggested that I was suffering from endometriosis and I was immediately referred to a gynaecologist. In January 2017, I underwent surgery to diagnose endometriosis and remove a large cyst from my ovary. While I felt significantly better, I knew it was just a matter of time until the endo grew back and my symptoms returned. My doctor prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and advised me to go on the birth control pill to help manage my condition.

Determined to heal my body naturally, I decided to look for answers elsewhere. I stumbled upon the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) — a diet and lifestyle protocol that focuses on treating autoimmune disease with a holistic approach. It works by addressing contributing factors to autoimmune disease, such as food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, gut dysbiosis, stress and other environmental factors. With an emphasis on nutrient dense foods and removing those that are likely problematic, the AIP provides the body with a clean slate and the opportunity to heal. It’s health benefits are supported by scientific research and the many success stories of those who have mitigated and even reversed their autoimmune conditions.

As a Holistic Nutritionist, I have experimented with all types of diets in order to better serve my clients. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, when it comes to autoimmune disease, the AIP is the best place to start. Whether you’re suffering from Hashimoto’s, endometriosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, inflammatory bowel disease or any other chronic illness, following the AIP can help you transform your health. I have personally witnessed the healing benefits and am amazed at how quickly it works. Throughout my experience, I have been able to heal lifelong digestive problems, reduce my thyroid antibodies and eliminate many troublesome symptoms. While I still have a long way to go, the Autoimmune Protocol has helped me get my life back.

CREDENTIALS & AFFILIATES

Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN)

CSNN Alumni Association (CSNNAA)