Autoimmune Simplified

Dr. Alison Danby
Autoimmune Simplified

Welcome to The Autoimmune Simplified Podcast - Hosted by Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor, Functional Medicine Practitioner and the founder of the Autoimmune Institute. Each week we will be exploring new concepts dealing with autoimmune, talking with amazing experts and hearing inspiring stories about other’s autoimmune journeys. We will be diving deep into all things autoimmune healing - digestion, hormones, nutrition, mindset, and so much more. I’m here to guide and empower you, and Simplify these complex conditions and concepts so you can step into your power and become the CEO of your health with full control and clarity. I am honoured to be taking this journey with you.

  1. Should I Go Carnivore? The Top Question I’m Asked Every Week

    JUN 14

    Should I Go Carnivore? The Top Question I’m Asked Every Week

    Should I Go Carnivore? The Top Question I’m Asked Every Week Why Meat-Only Isn’t Your Autoimmune Fix (and What Your Gut Really Needs) Have you ever wondered if going carnivore might be the answer to your autoimmune flares, gut issues, or relentless fatigue? You’re not alone—and this episode is for you. Inside this powerful episode of Autoimmune Simplified, we’re tackling one of the biggest trends in the wellness world: the carnivore diet. You’ll hear why it seems to work at first—and why it may do more harm than good in the long run if you’re living with autoimmune issues. We’re unpacking: Why the carnivore diet brings short-term symptom relief What’s missing when it comes to long-term healing The critical connection between gut health, diversity, and resilience The real root causes of autoimmune flares (spoiler: it’s not your broccoli) What your gut actually needs to regulate inflammation and rebuild tolerance Plus, I’ll walk you through a smarter, more sustainable path to relief—without swinging from trend to trend or fearing every food group. If you're tired of feeling stuck, scared of food, or constantly chasing the next "fix," this is your sign to pause—and listen. 🎧 Tune in to learn: What short-term relief on carnivore is actually telling you How plant diversity fuels your microbiome, mitochondria, and immune system Why resilience—not restriction—is the real path to healing Foundational strategies that restore energy, calm inflammation, and build food freedom Ready to stop surviving on restrictions and start building a body that can thrive on real nourishment? Join us inside Autoimmune Foundations—our 5-week live coaching program designed to help you rebuild the 4 pillars of healing: nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress relief. https://autoimmunefoundations.com/waitlist ------------------------------------------------------ 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.autoimmuneacademy.com  and www.AlisonDanby.com Loved This Episode? 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!

    29 min
  2. The Truth About Autoimmune Hair Loss (Spoiler: It’s Not Biotin)

    MAY 17

    The Truth About Autoimmune Hair Loss (Spoiler: It’s Not Biotin)

    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). Free Resource Mentioned From Previous Podcast  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 Loved This Episode? 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!

    42 min
  3. When Hormones Fuel the Fire: Autoimmunity in Perimenopause

    MAY 3

    When Hormones Fuel the Fire: Autoimmunity in Perimenopause

    Perimenopause & Autoimmune — What’s Really Going On? 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.  In This Episode, You'll Learn: 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.) Free Resource Mentioned: 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 Loved This Episode? 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!

    37 min
  4. Beyond the Label: What ‘Anti-Inflammatory Foods’ Really Means

    APR 18

    Beyond the Label: What ‘Anti-Inflammatory Foods’ Really Means

    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.   -------------------------------------------- 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

    24 min
  5. Autoimmunity, Nervous System &... Carebears? Let’s Talk.

    APR 4

    Autoimmunity, Nervous System &... Carebears? Let’s Talk.

    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. ------------------------- 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

    17 min
  6. LDN: Hope or Hype for Autoimmune Disease?

    MAR 21

    LDN: Hope or Hype for Autoimmune Disease?

    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. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 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

    31 min
  7. Gut Health & Hashimoto’s: The Hidden Connection You Need to Know with Dr. Alison Danby, ND

    MAR 7

    Gut Health & Hashimoto’s: The Hidden Connection You Need to Know with Dr. Alison Danby, ND

    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 ---------------------------------------------------------------- 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

    36 min
  8. 2024-01-05

    Episode 109: Unpacking Hard Truths: Laura's Insight on Alcohol's Impact to Health

    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. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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: me@lauravalvasori.com   www.lauravalvasori.com

    35 min
5
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Autoimmune Simplified Podcast - Hosted by Dr. Alison Danby, Naturopathic Doctor, Functional Medicine Practitioner and the founder of the Autoimmune Institute. Each week we will be exploring new concepts dealing with autoimmune, talking with amazing experts and hearing inspiring stories about other’s autoimmune journeys. We will be diving deep into all things autoimmune healing - digestion, hormones, nutrition, mindset, and so much more. I’m here to guide and empower you, and Simplify these complex conditions and concepts so you can step into your power and become the CEO of your health with full control and clarity. I am honoured to be taking this journey with you.

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