Send us Fan Mail What happens when you know something is wrong, but you’re repeatedly told that your laboratory results are “normal”? In this episode of Peace Over Panic, Taylor sits down with Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP, a clinical pharmacist, internationally recognized Hashimoto’s expert, and bestselling author, to explore the connections among thyroid autoimmunity, IBS, anxiety, stress, and nutrient deficiencies. Taylor shares her personal experience of discovering positive thyroid antibodies and ANA results while her thyroid hormone levels remained within range. Despite not feeling like herself, she was told there was nothing to worry about. That confusing and frustrating experience eventually led her to Dr. Wentz’s work. Dr. Wentz shares her own journey from IBS, panic attacks, acid reflux, fatigue, and hair loss to receiving a Hashimoto’s diagnosis. She explains why digestive problems and nutrient deficiencies may deserve attention, even when conventional laboratory ranges do not provide a clear explanation for someone’s symptoms. Together, they discuss how patients can become informed advocates for themselves without feeling as though they have to navigate their health alone. In this episode, we discuss: What thyroid antibodies may mean when TSH and thyroid hormone levels are still within rangeWhy women with physical symptoms are so often told that they are simply anxious or stressedDr. Wentz’s personal progression from IBS and panic attacks to Hashimoto’sThe potential relationship among gut health, stress, nutrient status, and autoimmunityWhy low ferritin, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 deserve a closer lookThe difference between being “within range” and feeling wellPossible contributors to low iron stores, including impaired absorption and gastrointestinal conditionsDr. Wentz’s approach to food sensitivities and elimination dietsH. pylori, SIBO, and other digestive concerns discussed in the episodeThe benefits and limitations of comprehensive laboratory testingWhy receiving more health data does not always make the next step obviousHow to educate yourself while still working with qualified healthcare professionalsThe foundations of Dr. Wentz’s Hashimoto’s ProtocolStress, the body’s cortisol response, circadian rhythms, and supporting energyWhy IBS should not automatically be dismissed as something a person must learn to tolerateHow Dr. Wentz’s new IBS book helps readers investigate possible contributors to their symptomsWhy asking questions does not make someone a hypochondriacMemorable quote “You’re a hypochondriac until you actually figure out what’s wrong with you. Then you’re a person who knew your body best and figured out a way out.” — Dr. Izabella Wentz Episode timestamps 00:00 — Anxiety, panic attacks, and knowing something is wrong 00:17 — Welcome and episode overview 02:01 — Introducing Dr. Izabella Wentz 02:06 — Taylor’s experience with positive ANA and thyroid antibodies 04:30 — When thyroid antibodies are elevated but thyroid function appears normal 07:54 — Gut health, nutrient deficiencies, and the “chicken or the egg” question 12:45 — Dr. Wentz’s commonly investigated Hashimoto’s contributors 15:53 — Practical starting points: food, blood sugar, and nutrient testing 17:23 — Ferritin, vitamin D, anxiety, and restless legs 18:16 — Understanding vitamin B12 testing 21:13 — Comprehensive testing: helpful information or information overload? 22:14 — Becoming an educated and empowered patient 25:47 — Moving beyond hundreds of expensive tests 27:50 — Where to begin with Dr. Wentz’s books and protocols 30:35 — Why she wrote Adrenal Transformation Protocol 35:28 — Dr. Wentz’s personal IBS story 38:39 — The relationship among stress, the gut, and autoimmunity 42:31 — Finding possible underlying contributors to IBS 45:20 — The “hypochondriac” label and trusting what your body is telling you 47:39 — Final message for anyone who feels alone in their symptoms About Dr. Izabella Wentz Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP, is a clinical pharmacist and internationally recognized specialist in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. After receiving her Doctor of Pharmacy degree at 23, she built a career in clinical pharmacology, medication safety, and complex case investigation. After being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s in 2009, Dr. Wentz dedicated her work to investigating lifestyle factors that may influence thyroid symptoms, digestive health, stress, nutrition, and autoimmunity. She is the author of: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Lifestyle Interventions for Finding and Treating the Root CauseHashimoto’s ProtocolHashimoto’s Food PharmacologyAdrenal Transformation ProtocolIBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel SyndromeConnect with Dr. Izabella Wentz Website: ThyroidPharmacist.com Books and resources: Dr. Wentz’s books New IBS book: IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Important note This episode is intended for education and general information only. It is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Laboratory results and supplement needs must be interpreted within each person’s complete medical history. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing your medications, supplements, diet, or treatment plan. Connect with Taylor: Instagram: @health_anxiety TikTok: @healthanxiety Threads: @health_anxiety YouTube: Health Anxiety Healer Chirp: chirp.me/healthanxiety Website: peakofpanic.com If this episode brought you a little more peace, follow the show, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who may need this reminder today. You are not alone, you are not broken, and peace is something you can practice, one moment at a time. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual needs. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, contact emergency services in your area.
