Navigating the Complexities of Autoimmunity: A Functional Medicine Approach to Autoimmune Disorders with Case Studies with Michael Jurgelewicz, DC, DACBN, DCBCN, CNS from the NANP 2024 HEALCon. Take this quiz to earn 1.5 CECs.
Dr. Jurgelewicz is involved in the research, coordination, and execution of product development as well as clinical and technical support for Designs for Health. He is also an adjunct professor for the renowned Master of Science in Human Nutrition program at the University of
Bridgeport as well as Sonoran University of Health Sciences.
Dr. Jurgelewicz is board-certified in Nutrition by the American Clinical Board of Nutrition, a Diplomate of the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition, a Certified Nutrition Specialist, and a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Jurgelewicz specializes in functional medicine and the management of a variety of chronic health conditions.
Presentation Description:
Autoimmunity and gastrointestinal disorders have become an increasing epidemic. There are many different autoimmune diseases within all specialties, and all of these are looked at differently; however, they all have the same common triggers. Therefore, we can take a similar approach in treating all auto- immune disorders. If we know what causes the immune system to attack itself and we know some of the triggers that cause a malfunction in the immune system, we can successfully treat these conditions.
Dr. Jurgelewicz will take you through a functional medicine approach to autoimmune disorders. He will present the environmental factors that contribute to these conditions and how to assess nutrient status, intestinal barrier function, gastrointestinal health, gut inflammation, mucosal immunity, and digestive function. He will explain specific dietary factors and nutrient deficiencies and their role in autoimmune disease. Dr. Jurgelewicz will then present an integrated treatment approach for autoimmune disorders through personal case studies.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify environmental factors that contribute to autoimmunity
- Explain the role of the intestinal barrier and dietary factors on autoimmunity
- Recognize the role of clinical laboratory testing to assess autoimmune dysfunction
- Determine dietary interventions and nutritional therapeutics for clients presenting with autoimmune disorders
