Autoimmune Simplified

Hair in the drain. A widening part. Thinning at the temples.

You've tried the shampoo. The supplements. The serums. But nothing's working.

What if the real reason your hair is falling out… has nothing to do with your hair at all?

In today's episode of Autoimmune Simplified, we're pulling back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood symptoms of autoimmune conditions: hair loss.

• What's really causing it?
• Why are traditional solutions missing the mark?
• And what's the one lab marker that's often labeled "normal" but quietly sabotaging your hair regrowth?

If you've ever been told, "It's just aging," or "It's cosmetic," this episode will change the way you see your symptoms.

We're covering:

• What autoimmune inflammation does to your hair cycle

• The misunderstood lab test that might hold the key to regrowth

• Why hormone shifts in perimenopause and menopause amplify shedding

• How your nervous system and stress hormones secretly drive hair loss

Plus: What you need to know about that "normal" iron level (hint: it's not so normal).

Grab your Perimenopause & Autoimmune Bloodwork Guide Get a clear list of labs to run (and how to interpret them in this phase). www.AlisonDanby.com/hormonelabs

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in Functional Medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 18 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Academy, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

Let's keep the conversation going! **Share it with a friend **Leave a 5 start review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify **Tag @DrAlisonDanby on Instagram and let us know what landed most for you!

Are your autoimmune symptoms flaring as your hormones shift? You're not imagining it.

In this episode, Dr. Alison Danby dives deep into the powerful intersection between perimenopause and autoimmune disease — what's happening in your body, why things feel harder than they used to, and what you can do to feel like yourself again.

• What perimenopause really is — and how it affects your hormones, mood, sleep, and immune system

• Why hormone testing may not be as helpful as you think (and what to do instead)

• How fluctuating estrogen and declining progesterone can trigger autoimmune flares

• Why blood sugar crashes, histamine overload, and poor sleep make things worse

• The root causes of increased sensitivity to foods, stress, and medications

• Practical steps to regulate your nervous system, stabilize hormones, and reduce immune reactivity

• The role of HRT and when it might be worth exploring

This is a must-listen if you're in your late 30s or 40s, feeling off, and wondering: "Is this perimenopause? Or is it my autoimmune condition?" (Spoiler: it's both — and we can work with it.)

Grab your Perimenopause & Autoimmune Bloodwork Guide Get a clear list of labs to run (and how to interpret them in this phase). www.AlisonDanby.com/hormonelabs

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in Functional Medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 18 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Academy, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

Let's keep the conversation going! **Share it with a friend **Leave a 5 start review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify **Tag @DrAlisonDanby on Instagram and let us know what landed most for you!

We hear it everywhere: "Eat an anti-inflammatory diet." But… what does anti-inflammatory really mean?

In this episode, Dr. Alison opens up about why she made a major pivot in her approach to autoimmune nutrition — stepping away from restrictive diets she once supported — and the powerful science that changed everything.

We explore two fascinating studies that challenge conventional wisdom: A brand-new randomized controlled trial in autoimmune disease

A a mindblowing study that reveals how you feel about food can shift your biology

You'll discover:

• Why "anti-inflammatory" isn't as black-and-white as you've been told

• What we should be asking when it comes to food and inflammation

• How mindset and stress impact the body's response to food

• What really creates a healing environment — and how to start building it today

If you've ever felt confused by conflicting advice, overwhelmed by wellness trends, or anxious about what's on your plate… this episode will bring you clarity, calm, and science-backed perspective.

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LINKS from the Show:

Join the Autoimmune Academy - Free Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutoimmuneAcademyGroup

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in Functional Medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 18 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Academy, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

What do childhood cartoons, spontaneous dance breaks, and ancient healing traditions have in common?

They're all part of the surprising, science-backed tools I use to support the nervous system—tools that have transformed my own healing and the journey of so many clients navigating autoimmunity.

In this soul-soothing episode of Autoimmune Simplified, we're diving into the beautiful intersection of science and self-care—nervous system regulation. I'm sharing three of my most-loved practices for calming the body, shifting out of stress, and creating space for true healing.

They're joyful. They're emotional. They're powerful.

And I promise—you won't see them coming.

Whether you're mid-flare, burned out, or just need a moment of calm—this episode is your permission slip to feel, move, release, and come home to your body.

Gentle. Real. Life-changing. Let's regulate—together.

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LINKS from the Show:

Join the Autoimmune Academy - Free Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutoimmuneAcademyGroup

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in Functional Medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 18 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Academy, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

This episode dives deep into one of the questions I get asked most often: Should I take Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)? If you're wondering whether LDN will work for your autoimmune condition, why it's not working for you, or why so many people online swear by it—this is the episode you need to hear.

LDN has gained a lot of traction in the autoimmune community, especially on social media and even among some medical professionals. But is the hype supported by science? In this episode, we're cutting through the noise and getting real about what the research actually says.

We'll break down:

• What LDN is and how it works
• The evidence (and limitations) in conditions like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's, and scleroderma
• Why some people feel better—and others don't
• The difference between symptom relief and disease progression
• Why we need large, controlled studies before LDN becomes a mainstream autoimmune treatment

As a practitioner, it's incredibly important to me that we don't just chase the latest trend. My role is to give you the full picture—the good and the bad—so you can make an informed decision about your health. We're not offering blanket solutions here. We're offering clarity.

If you've been curious about LDN, this is the episode that gives you the straight facts—backed by science, explained with heart.

🎧 Tune in now and walk away empowered to make the right choice for your body.

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LINKS from the Show:

Join the Autoimmune Academy - Free Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutoimmuneAcademyGroup

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in Functional Medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 18 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Academy, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

In this episode of Autoimmune Simplified, Dr. Alison Danby ND explores the powerful connection between gut health and thyroid function, particularly in Hashimoto's. Learn how gut imbalances, nutrient absorption, leaky gut, and dysbiosis can impact your thyroid and autoimmune response.

Key Topics Covered:

✔ The Thyroid-Gut Axis – How gut health influences thyroid function

✔ Leaky Gut & Autoimmune Thyroid Disease

✔ The role of gut bacteria in Hashimoto's and how microbiome imbalances contribute to thyroid dysfunction

✔ Diet and lifestyle shifts to support gut and thyroid health

✔ How testing moves the needle in your care

✔ Do probiotics really help? What the latest research says

✔ Supplements that may support gut and thyroid healing

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how your gut could be impacting your thyroid and what steps you can take to improve your health!

Apple: Link to Episode: The Missing Link - Key steps to healing your gut

Spotify: Link to Episode The Missing Link: Key steps to Healing Your Gut

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LINKS from the Show:

Join the Autoimmune Academy - Free Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutoimmuneAcademyGroup

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in functional medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 15 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Academy, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

In this episode, we welcome back Laura Valvasori, she shares her remarkable journey of transforming her life and health by eliminating alcohol. This conversation tackles a critical yet often overlooked aspect of autoimmune care – the significant impact of alcohol on health.

Laura's story is not just inspiring; it's a wake-up call to many who are diligently following their health routines but might be ignoring the 'big elephant in the room' – alcohol. We delve into how Laura made the pivotal decision to quit drinking and the profound health benefits she experienced as a result.

This episode is packed with eye-opening statistics, particularly regarding the risks alcohol poses for cancer, and offers a wealth of practical tips for those considering a similar path. Laura provides invaluable insights on how to transition away from alcohol seamlessly, focusing on not just the 'how' but also the 'why' behind this life-changing decision.

Join us as Laura opens up about her challenges and triumphs, providing listeners with motivation and strategies to make a health-forward change. Whether you're dealing with autoimmune issues or simply seeking to improve your overall well-being, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the role of alcohol in health and how its removal can lead to a more vibrant, healthier life without feeling like you're missing out.

Listen to Laura's Previous Episode

Laura is also the author of Good to Grow: Cultivate the Mindset and Habits to Thrive as an Entrepreneur. She previously joined us as a guest on Episode 85: Taking the Fear out of Career Transition.

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Laura Valvasori Bio: Laura Valvasori is a Business & Well-Being Mentor, the Author of Good to Grow: Cultivate Your Mindset and Habits to Thrive as an Entrepreneur, a Certified Emotion Code Practitioner, and the creator of the Still Me, But Alcohol-Free program.

Like many women, in her early forties, Laura started feeling like alcohol was no longer agreeing with her body and drinking was starting to feel out of alignment with her otherwise healthy lifestyle. After hitting a breaking point, she decided to "try on" going alcohol-free in a quest to feel better. Today, over 3 years later, she lives happily alcohol-free. She is now passionate about sharing what she's learned to guide other women through the journey of shifting to an alcohol-free life.

Listen to Laura's Previous Episode

Laura is also the author of Good to Grow: Cultivate the Mindset and Habits to Thrive as an Entrepreneur. She previously joined us as a guest on Episode 85: Taking the Fear out of Career Transition.

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UPCOMING PROGRAMS AND EVENTS:

Launching February 1st, 2024, Still Me, But Alcohol-Free is a 6-week program, designed for women, to guide you through "trying on" going alcohol-free with the right mindset, tools, and support to help you be successful. Find out more at: https://www.lauravalvasori.com/still-me-alcohol-free

For those in the Oakville, Ontario area, you can join Laura for the Dry January Tasting Experience on January 18th from 6:30 – 8:30 at The Clover Collective. You will have an opportunity to taste a variety of non-alcoholic drinks while having a fun, social experience with like-minded women.

Buy your tickets at: https://www.lauravalvasori.com/dry-january-tasting-experience

FREE RESOURCES:

Grab a FREE copy of Laura's 12 Days of Alcohol-Free Holiday Mocktails that Don't Require Non-Alcoholic Spirits.

Download at: https://www.lauravalvasori.com/12-days-mocktails

Grab a FREE copy of Your Guide to Non-Alcoholic Drinks that Don't Suck.

Download at: https://www.lauravalvasori.com/non-alcoholic-drinks-that-dont-suck

Sign up for Laura's FREE 40-minute on-demand MentorClass "Five Hacks to a Happier Happy Hour Alcohol-Free" you'll learn strategies to help you "try on" socializing alcohol-free, while still having fun!

Sign-up to watch: https://www.lauravalvasori.com/five-hacks-mentorclass-on-demand

PREVIOUS EPISODE:

Laura is also the author of Good to Grow: Cultivate the Mindset and Habits to Thrive as an Entrepreneur. She previously joined us as a guest on Episode 85: Taking the Fear out of Career Transition.

CONNECT WITH LAURA:

Instagram and TikTok at @laura_valvasori

Email: [email protected]

www.lauravalvasori.com

We discuss the impact of the microbiome on autoimmune and mental health, emphasizing the importance of a balanced microbial environment. Learn about the systemic effects of gut inflammation, especially in autoimmune disorders, and the influence of diet and stress management on maintaining a healthy gut-brain connection.

Join us for an insightful episode that offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of the latest findings in gut health, brain signals, and their implications for overall wellness. Perfect for those looking to understand the intricate link between our digestive system and the nervous system.

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LINKS from the Show:

Join the Autoimmune Academy - Free Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutoimmuneAcademyGroup

Join Between the Visits Membership, A Functional Approach to Autoimmune

https://membership.theautoimmuneinstitute.ca/between-visits-membership-7442

About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in functional medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 15 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Institute, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

Autoimmune Nutrition Essentials: Uncovering the Overlooked Trio

In this episode, we explore the critical dietary components often overlooked in the management of autoimmune. We dive deep into the world of nutrition with us as we dissect the role and importance of protein, calcium, and fibre for those navigating the complexities of autoimmune conditions.

In this enlightening series, we'll explore why diets catering to autoimmune health frequently miss out on these vital nutrients and how this can impact overall wellness. From the muscle-building power of protein to the multifaceted role of calcium beyond just bone health, and the gut-balancing benefits of fibre, we will cover it all. Each segment will not only shed light on the significance of these nutrients but will also provide actionable tips on how to seamlessly integrate them into your daily meals.

Whether you're looking to revamp your diet or fine-tune it, this podcast is your go-to guide for enhancing your health journey with the power of protein, calcium, and fiber.

Tune in to 'Filling the Gaps' and transform the way you eat, live, and thrive with autoimmune disease. Don't forget to join the conversation and share your food adventures with us on social media

LINKS from the Show:

Join the Autoimmune Academy - Free Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/AutoimmuneAcademyGroup

Trackers:

MyFittnesspal.com

Are you getting enough Calcium in your diet? Click Here for the tracker

Do you have nutritional Questions? We get it - Nutrition is not easy! Don't worry We've got you covered. Join the Between the Visits Autoimmune Membership and get access to our weekly coaching call with Dr. Danby, ND and our nutritionist Paula

Join Between the Visits Membership, A Functional Approach to Autoimmune

https://membership.theautoimmuneinstitute.ca/between-visits-membership-7442

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About your host:

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in functional medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 15 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Institute, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Join Between the Visits Membership, A Functional Approach to Autoimmune

https://membership.theautoimmuneinstitute.ca/between-visits-membership-7442

Sign up for the Autoimmune Fatigue Course

hhttps://www.autoimmuneacademy.com/fatigue-course

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com

Unveiling the Tiredness: Chronic Inflammation, Anemia, and the Unique Exhaustion of Autoimmunity

Do you often ask yourself, "Why am I so unbelievably tired?" If you're grappling with an autoimmune condition, you're likely no stranger to fatigue that feels more like a permanent shadow than a passing cloud. In this insightful episode of "Fatigue Insights," we're peeling back the layers of one of the most perplexing symptoms of autoimmune diseases: deep-seated exhaustion.

Fatigue in autoimmune disease isn't just your run-of-the-mill tiredness—it's a pervasive weariness that can derail your entire day. We delve into the under-discussed connection between chronic inflammation, anemia, and autoimmune fatigue to uncover why this type of tiredness is fundamentally different. Discover how inflammation's silent spread within your body can lead to a specific kind of anemia, aptly termed 'anemia of chronic disease,' and why it contributes to your relentless fatigue.

Join us as we explore the science behind the fatigue that so many with autoimmune conditions endure. Learn about the biological processes that fuel this exhaustion and gain insights into potential strategies to reclaim your energy. It's not just fatigue; it's a battle within, and we're here to arm you with knowledge and support.

Tune in and begin to understand the depths of autoimmune fatigue and what you can do to manage it. This episode might just be the key to unlocking the mystery of your tiredness and stepping towards a more energetic life, despite your autoimmune challenges.

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About your Host

Dr. Alison Danby is a Naturopathic Doctor trained in functional medicine, who has focused on immune function and autoimmune conditions for the last 15 years. She is the founder of The Autoimmune Institute, the host of the podcast Autoimmune Simplified, an international professional speaker, educating medical professionals on the collaborative medical care model for autoimmune, and a frequent guest on podcasts.

Her mission is to change the paradigm of how we medically treat autoimmune, helping remove the frustration and overwhelm that is common with an autoimmune diagnosis while using collaborative care and helping her clients not only manage their condition but optimize their quality of life. Dr. Alison's passion is working in both a one-on-one practice and within her autoimmune membership/group programs.

Sign up for the 5-Day Autoimmune Fatigue Course and over come your autoimmune fatigue by the Holidays.

https://autoimmuneacademy.com/autoimmune-fatigue--course

Connect with Dr. Danby, ND

IG: @dr.AlisonDanby

Facebook: Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor

website: www.AlisonDanby.com