Autoimmune Disease and Functional Medicine

How Functional Medicine Coaching Can Help
Over the past decade, health experts have recognized a significant rise in autoimmune diseases. While acute conditions like infections and injuries still require urgent care, chronic immune-related conditions have become far more common. These include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, psoriasis, and other inflammatory disorders that affect millions of people.
The Growing Problem of Autoimmune Disease
Autoimmune diseases are increasingly prevalent, affecting approximately one in twelve people! Additionally, about 20% of Americans test positive for autoantibodies, indicating an immune system that is misfiring and attacking healthy tissues. Autoimmune disorders can impact virtually any organ or system in the body, leading to symptoms such as chronic fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, skin rashes, digestive problems, and hormonal imbalances.
Functional medicine coaching, such as that offered by Intentional Wellness and led by Shannon Goins-Blair, focuses on addressing these chronic conditions through a holistic approach. Over time, the field of functional medicine has evolved to provide more personalized care. Previously, small lifestyle changes could significantly improve health, but now, due to widespread inflammation and environmental factors, a more tailored approach is needed.
Addressing Autoimmune Disease Through Functional Medicine Coaching
Understanding the root causes of autoimmune diseases is key to preventing and managing these conditions. Several factors contribute to immune system dysfunction, including diet, sleep, stress levels, infections, and environmental toxins. By making strategic lifestyle adjustments, people can strengthen their immune systems and reduce autoimmune flare-ups.
The Immune System’s Role in Autoimmune Disease
The immune system has two key components: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system. Each plays a role in protecting the body, but dysfunction in either can lead to autoimmune disease.
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Autoinflammatory diseases occur when the innate immune system becomes hyperactive, leading to excessive inflammation and tissue damage.
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Autoimmune diseases arise when the adaptive immune system malfunctions and produces autoantibodies that attack healthy cells, leading to conditions like Hashimoto’s, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
A well-functioning immune system is essential for managing everyday exposures to bacteria, viruses, and environmental toxins. However, when chronic inflammation persists, it can lead to autoimmune disorders and long-term health complications.
Common Root Causes of Autoimmune Disease
Several underlying factors contribute to autoimmune disease, including:
1. Chronic Infections
Many people suffer from long-term infections without realizing it. Conditions like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), chronic Lyme disease, and viral infections in the gut can trigger autoimmune responses. Chronic infections have been linked to conditions such as Hashimoto’s, multiple sclerosis, and lupus. Identifying and treating these infections is crucial for reducing autoimmunity.
2. Leaky Gut
The gut lining acts as a barrier to keep harmful substances out of the bloodstream. When this barrier is compromised, toxins and bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger an immune response. This condition, known as leaky gut, plays a significant role in autoimmune diseases. Healing the gut through diet and targeted supplementation is a cornerstone of functional medicine coaching.
3. Environmental Toxins and Mold Exposure
Exposure to mold and environmental toxins can trigger Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), which causes widespread immune dysregulation. Many modern buildings trap moisture and toxins, creating conditions where mold thrives. Mold exposure has been linked to autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, brain fog, and immune dysfunction.
Solutions and Strategies for Managing Autoimmune Disease
Functional medicine coaching provides a whole-person approach to managing autoimmune disease. By addressing root causes and making lifestyle changes, individuals can reduce inflammation and restore balance to their immune systems.
1. Nutrition: Eating Real Food
A whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet is key to maintaining gut health and preventing autoimmune flare-ups. Processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial additives can trigger inflammation. Intentional Wellness encourages clients to adopt nutrient-dense eating habits to support their immune function and reduce symptoms.
2. Stress Management
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to autoimmune flare-ups. Simple techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and spending time in nature can help lower stress levels and improve immune resilience.
3. Quality Sleep
Poor sleep is linked to increased inflammation and worsened autoimmune symptoms. Creating a consistent sleep routine, avoiding blue light before bed, and managing stress can improve sleep quality and overall health.
4. Supporting the Immune System
Certain supplements, including probiotics, immunoglobulins, curcumin, and adaptogenic herbs, can help regulate immune function. Additionally, addressing sleep apnea, removing mold from the home, and optimizing gut health can help reduce autoimmune triggers and support long-term wellness.
Moving Forward: A Personalized Approach to Autoimmune Health
The traditional medical system often focuses on managing symptoms with medications rather than addressing the root causes of autoimmune diseases. Intentional Wellness takes a different approach by providing functional medicine coaching that emphasizes individualized care. Understanding how autoimmune diseases develop allows people to make informed choices about their health.
By focusing on gut health, reducing stress, getting enough sleep, and supporting the immune system, individuals can take control of their well-being. With the right guidance from professionals like Shannon Goins-Blair, people can take proactive steps to prevent and manage autoimmune diseases, leading to a healthier and more vibrant life.

Further Reading: Mystery, Undiagnosed,
& Invisible Illnesses
- Chronic Fatigue Causes: Hormonal, AutoImmune, and Undiagnosed Illness
- Unraveling Mast Cell Activation Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnostic Challenges
- Long COVID: A Neurological Perspective
- Fibromyalgia: Does It Really Exist?
- My Search for the Truth about Fibromyalgia
- Functional Health and Finding the Root Cause
- What Causes Brain Fog?
- Histamine Intolerance: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Causes, and Treatment