Autoimmune Diseases: An integrative approach to treatment

Approximately 50 million Americans are affected by autoimmune diseases, such as Graves disease, Type 1 Diabetes, and Rheumatoid arthritis. There are more than 80 different types of autoimmune diseases.

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When the immune system functions normally, it protects us against harmful substances like cancerous cells, bacteria, and parasites. Autoimmune diseases occurs when a person’s immune system gets out of whack, and targets its own cells, tissues, or organs.

Most conventional doctors treat the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, but may not look to find the root cause. There are other practitioners who try to uncover the cause of inflammation, and suggest dietary and life style changes to help people heal.

Guest:

Harry McIlroy, MD, is an integrative physician certified with the Institute for Functional Medicine. Before medical school and completion of residency at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, Harry had a background in nutrition
and obtained a Master’s in acupuncture and Chinese medicine. He strives to provide patients with health tools that empower them to improve their well being.