The incidence of autoimmune diseases has sharply risen over the last decade. I would say I am seeing at least 3 cases of autoimmune thyroiditis per day. Is it only related to gluten sensitivity or is the answer found in the gastrointestinal system. Today functional doctors like myself focus on the gut-brain connection and the type and amount of bacteria in the microbiome. This is the hot topic.
Once a patient is diagnosed with an autoimmune disease we know that there is already tissue damage. We do know certain bacteria are associated with certain autoimmune disorders. As an example Klebsiella bacteria is associated with ankylosing spoondylitis; chlamydia with multiple sclerosis; Yersinia bacteria with Hashimoto's thyroiditis; and multiple bacteria with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Recently on a stool analysis I found in a 60 year old white male the presence of Chilomastix mesnili This intestinal flagellate resides mainly int he cecum . More to be revealed.
Until tomorrow...