18: Root Cause Focus: Is A Parasitic Infection the Cause of Your Hashimoto's?
In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz shares her personal journey and professional insights on the potential links between parasitic infections and autoimmune conditions, specifically focusing on Hashimoto's, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and chronic hives.
Dr. Wentz discusses the "three-legged stool of autoimmunity" theory proposed by Dr. Alessio Fasano, which suggests that for an autoimmune condition to develop, three factors must be present: genetic predisposition, an environmental trigger, and intestinal permeability (or leaky gut). She then delves into how addressing these components can lead to symptom relief and even remission.
Listeners will hear about her own healing journey, as well as a particular protozoa, Blastocystis hominis, she uncovered in a large percentage of her clients with Hashimoto’s, using functional medicine stool tests. She gets into the research behind this protozoa.
Dr. Wentz’s mission is to help empower people through advocating the importance of individualized care, understanding your body, and encouraging listeners to be proactive health detectives in their own journeys.
Tune in to learn about:
Potential links between parasites and Hashimoto's – How infections like Blastocystis hominis may contribute to autoimmune conditions, IBS and hives.
The three-legged stool of autoimmunity – Genetic factors, triggers, and leaky gut are key factors with autoimmune disease.
Personal healing stories – Dr. Wentz shares her experiences with Hashimoto's and IBS, illustrating the connection between gut health and thyroid function.
Testing for gut infections – Learn about what tests you can take to help you uncover some key infections and other gut issues.
Treatment options – Learn about conventional and natural approaches to treating parasitic infections and restoring gut health.
This episode offers some amazing tips for anyone who is looking to understand their root cause, and suspects that their gut health might be an issue.
Tune in to learn how you can take charge of your health and uncover the root causes of your symptoms!
Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/
For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
--------
28:42
17: Unlocking the Mystery of T2 and Thyropause
In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Dr. Amie Hornaman — also known as “The Thyroid Fixer”— to explore the often-overlooked hormone T2 and its vital role in metabolism, energy, and thyroid function. Dr. Amie is a leading voice in thyroid health, the founder of the Better Thyroid and Hormone Institute, and the host of her own top-rated podcast, The Thyroid Fixer.
Before becoming a thyroid expert, Dr. Amie was a competitive figure athlete. She trained rigorously, followed a clean diet, and did everything “right”— yet she was inexplicably gaining weight and losing energy. Her experience of being dismissed by doctors and told she was “fine” while her body told a different story is one that will resonate with many listeners.
Together, Dr. Wentz and Dr. Hornaman dive deep into:
The significance of T2: How this lesser-known thyroid hormone can support fat loss, boost metabolism, and enhance mitochondrial function
The patient journey: Why even the most health-savvy individuals can fall through the cracks of traditional medicine
“Thyropause” explained: How hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause impact thyroid function and what to do about it
Personalized treatment strategies: Why cookie-cutter approaches don’t work—and what to look for in functional thyroid care
Becoming your own advocate: How to navigate the healthcare system, push for better testing, and reclaim your energy and well-being
If you’ve ever been told your labs are “normal” but you feel anything but, or you’re navigating the hormonal rollercoaster of midlife, this episode is a must-listen. It’s packed with practical, compassionate guidance rooted in both science and lived experience.
Don’t miss this empowering conversation filled with hope, healing, and next steps for your thyroid journey.
Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/
For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
--------
57:09
16: Thyroid Symptom Focus: Weight Loss
Welcome to Episode 16 of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast. In this episode, Dr. Izabella Wentz tackles a challenge that many women with hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s face: weight management.
The common advice of “eat less, exercise more” often leaves those with thyroid conditions feeling frustrated and stuck. Dr. Wentz dives deep into the reasons behind these struggles and shares valuable insights on how to effectively manage weight in the context of thyroid health. This episode features 11 practical, actionable strategies to help you regain control over their thyroid health journey.
Tune in to learn about:
Thyroid Function Testing: Dr. Wentz emphasizes the importance of monitoring TSH, free T3, and free T4 levels for optimal health, empowering listeners with essential knowledge.
Dietary Adjustments: She discusses how adopting a low-carb, high-protein diet can stabilize insulin levels and support weight loss, providing guidance on what nourishes the body best.
Supplement Recommendations: Dr. Wentz introduces key supplements like berberine and myo-inositol that can enhance weight management efforts, explaining how they can fit into daily routines.
The Importance of Protein: She highlights why protein is crucial for weight management, including the best types and amounts for those with Hashimoto’s.
Gut Health Matters: Dr. Wentz explains how probiotics and resistant starch can improve metabolic health, underscoring the essential role of gut health in overall well-being.
Adrenal Support: The episode explores how cortisol levels and stress management can significantly impact weight, with Dr. Wentz sharing effective strategies to help listeners keep stress in check.
Physical Activity: Listeners will discover how muscle building and enjoyable exercise routines can support their weight management journey, making fitness a fun and engaging part of life.
This episode is filled with practical advice tailored for anyone grappling with the challenges of thyroid weight management. Please tune in to uncover actionable steps that will enhance your well-being and help you reach your health goals and just feel better.
Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/
For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
--------
31:10
15: A Modern Approach to Thyroid Weight Loss
Struggling to lose weight even though you’ve resolved your other thyroid symptoms?
Many people, especially women, with thyroid issues or Hashimoto’s, find weight loss one of the most challenging thyroid symptoms to tackle — even when they are able to resolve other common symptoms like hair loss, brain fog, energy levels, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances.
In this episode, Dr. Izabella Wentz speaks with McCall McPherson, a pioneering physician associate and specialist in thyroid, hormone, and metabolic health.
Tune into this informative conversation to learn about:
Many thyroid patients remain symptomatic on T4-only medications like levothyroxine due to poor conversion to active T3 — caused by stress, nutrient deficiencies, or genetics.
Subclinical hypothyroidism is often just early-stage hypothyroidism — waiting to treat it delays healing and impacts quality of life.
T3-containing medications like Cytomel or Natural Desiccated Thyroid (NDT) can dramatically improve symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, and depression.
GLP-1 medications (like semaglutide), when microdosed and paired with lifestyle support, help thyroid patients lose weight and heal underlying metabolic dysfunction.
These medications may also reduce inflammation and Hashimoto’s antibodies when used appropriately
Studies do not show increased thyroid cancer risk from GLP-1s in humans; concerns stem from outdated rat studies using mega-doses.
Success with GLP-1s depends on personalized, low dosing, strength training, proper nutrition, and lab monitoring — not just taking a shot and hoping for the best.
If you’ve been struggling to lose weight and would like to learn more about the pros and cons of weight loss medications, give this episode a listen.
Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/
For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
--------
57:10
14: Quick Wins for Common Thyroid Symptoms
Welcome to episode 14 of Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations. If you’ve been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, you may be wondering what’s really going on beneath the surface. In this episode, Dr. Izabella Wentz shares her personal journey and dives deep into the underlying causes of Hashimoto’s, explaining why taking thyroid medication alone isn’t always enough to feel better.
Please note that managing Hashimoto’s requires more than just medication — it’s about addressing the root causes.
This episode will give you some great tips and resources to start with on your Hashimoto’s healing journey!
Tune in to learn:
Why thyroid medication alone may not resolve all symptoms
The most common nutrient deficiencies in Hashimoto’s and how to correct them
How gut health, food sensitivities, and blood sugar balance impact thyroid function
The role of stress, chronic infections, and detox pathways in autoimmune health
Practical strategies to start feeling better today
Tune in now to get clear on your diagnosis, understand your lab results, and take the first actionable steps toward reversing Hashimoto’s!
Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/
Get the FREE Hashimoto’s Root Cause Book — just pay shipping! (U.S. shipping addresses only.): https://thyroidpharmacist.com/free-root-cause-book/
For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/
About Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations with Dr. Izabella Wentz
Welcome to Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations, where Dr. Izabella Wentz, pharmacist, researcher and NYT bestselling author dives deep into the root causes of thyroid dysfunction, gut imbalances, fatigue, chronic health issues and autoimmunity.
This show brings you deep, insightful conversations with top experts in functional medicine, nutrition, and wellness. We explore topics like gut health, adrenal support, detoxification, diet, and lifestyle changes to help you take control of your health and reclaim your energy. Join Dr. Wentz for solo episodes packed with practical strategies and insightful discussions from her own research and observations. Whether you're navigating Hashimoto’s, hypothyroidism, perimenopause, IBS, struggling with mystery symptoms, metabolism, or looking for holistic ways to optimize your well-being, these conversations will empower you with knowledge and actionable steps.
Subscribe now to start your healing journey and discover the tools to thrive.
Listen to Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations with Dr. Izabella Wentz, Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
UK