FRIDAY 5 - Ways I Stay Calm and Regulated When Travelling (with Autoimmunity)

Send us a textTravel can be a major trigger when you're living with an autoimmune condition. From flare-ups and fatigue to gut issues and anxiety, the change in routine can leave your body feeling anything but relaxed. In this solo episode, I’m sharing my top 5 personal strategies for staying calm, regulated, and well while travelling — without triggering symptoms or stress.I’ll walk you through how I prep my nervous system before a trip, the calming supplements I always pack (including Calm by BodyBio - ise code VJ15 for 15% discount), how I support digestion and circadian rhythms on the go, and why the Nurosym vagus nerve device (use code VJ5 for 5% discount) is a game-changer for travel recovery. Whether you’re managing Hashimoto’s, psoriasis, Sjögren’s, or chronic fatigue, these tools can help you travel with more ease and less inflammation.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textAutoimmune symptoms don’t just come out of nowhere — and in this episode, we’re unpacking what’s really driving them beneath the surface.I’m joined by Dr. Christine Schaffner, a renowned naturopathic doctor who blends bioregulatory and environmental medicine to help people with complex chronic illness get to the root. We talk about the hidden layers often overlooked in autoimmune care — from mould and stealth infections to lymphatic stagnation, nervous system dysregulation, and the body’s terrain.We also explore how detox pathways get blocked, why drainage must come before detox, and how frequency-based tools and energy medicine can help restore regulation. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but still struggling with flares, fatigue, or inflammation, this conversation will help you see your symptoms in a whole new light.Mentioned in this episode:The role of the lymphatic system in autoimmunityHow to support drainage and detox in a safe, structured wayTerrain theory and why it matters in chronic illnessThe missing piece in many autoimmune healing protocolsPractical tools to start shifting stagnation todayMore from Dr. Christine Schaffner: 🌐 Website: www.drchristineschaffner.com 🎙 Podcast: The Spectrum of Health 📸 Instagram: @drchristineschaffner 📚 Courses & Programs: drchristineschaffner.com/programsSubscribe to the podcast for more expert insights on healing chronic illness through root-cause medicine, and if you found this episode helpful, leave a review or share it with someone who needs it.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textCould your home be silently driving your symptoms?In this week’s Friday Five on The Autoimmune RESET, I’m sharing five powerful, practical ways to reduce mould exposure in your home—and why that matters so much for immune regulation, histamine balance, and flare prevention.If you’re dealing with autoimmune disease, MCAS, fatigue, brain fog, or chronic congestion, mould could be one of those hidden triggers that’s keeping your body in a state of reactivity—even when everything else seems “clean.”We’ll cover:The one number you must monitor at homeWhat that “musty” smell could really be telling youWhy bleach doesn’t work (and what to use instead)When to call in professional helpThe functional test I use in clinic to uncover mould-related immune stress💡 If you’re ready to explore whether mould is part of your health picture, you can learn more about the functional mould and mycotoxin test I offer here.🛠️ And if you're in the UK and need expert home treatment, I often recommend Pure Maintenance for safe, non-invasive mould remediation here.A clean, dry, well-ventilated home really can become one of your most powerful tools for long-term healing. Tune in now.👉🏼 Download The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textFeeling puffy, sluggish, or like your immune system is always in overdrive?In this Friday 5 episode, I’m sharing five simple but powerful ways to support your lymphatic system — one of the most overlooked but essential systems in autoimmune health.From rebounding and dry brushing to mineral-rich hydration and breathwork, these are the practical tools I use in clinic and in my own recovery. I’ll also walk you through how castor oil packs can be helpful (and when they’re not).If you're on your autoimmune healing journey and want to feel less inflamed, more energised, and actually supported in your detox pathways — this one’s for you. In this episode:Why stagnant lymph slows recoveryHow to move lymph without fancy toolsThe surprising role of minerals like sodium and potassiumWhat I recommend in clinic for real-life results👉🏼 Download The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here.🧂 Stay hydrated the right way — I use BodyBio E-Lyte daily to support lymph, adrenals, and energy: Use my link to shop BodyBio and get 15% off with code VJ15Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textIn this episode of The Autoimmune RESET Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Casey Kelley, Founder and Medical Director of Case Integrative Health, to unpack the deeper drivers behind chronic illness—including Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and autoimmune conditions—and how a functional medicine approach can guide real, lasting recovery.We discuss Dr. Kelley’s own journey from conventional to integrative medicine, the patterns she sees in complex cases, and her clinical strategies for addressing infection, immune dysfunction, detox capacity, and nervous system regulation.If you’ve been told “your labs are normal” but you know something isn’t right, or if you’re deep into your healing journey and looking for next-level insights, this episode offers practical guidance and renewed hope.In this episode, we cover:Dr. Kelley’s personal and professional evolution into functional medicineHow she approaches complex cases of Lyme, mold illness, and autoimmunityThe role of immune and toxin load in chronic illnessHow the nervous system impacts recovery, and what tools can helpHer most valuable functional tests and markersWhat conventional care often overlooks—and how to bridge the gapA message of encouragement for those feeling stuck or dismissedConnect with Dr. Casey KelleyWebsite: www.caseintegrativehealth.comInstagram: @caseintegrativehealthSubscribe to the podcast for more expert insights on healing chronic illness through root-cause medicine, and if you found this episode helpful, leave a review or share it with someone who needs it.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition.Ask ChatGPTThanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textIn this Friday 5 episode, I’m sharing my all-time favourite herbal teas for autoimmune support—and exactly why I keep coming back to them in clinic and in my own routine. From gut-soothing ginger to mineral-rich nettle and calming chamomile, I walk you through the key benefits of each blend and how they can help calm inflammation, support detox, ease digestion, and regulate your immune system.I also wrap up with simple ways to enjoy these teas in the warmer months (because no one wants a boiling cup of tea in July!). If you’re looking for daily, low-effort ways to feel better, this one’s for you.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textFasting can be a powerful tool for immune health, inflammation, and cellular repair — but only when it’s done in a way that supports your body, not depletes it. In this episode, I explore how to use fasting strategically to work with your immune system and hormones, not against them.We cover:The different types of fasting — and how each one affects the bodyWhat autophagy really is, and when it’s activatedHow fasting may support metabolism, inflammation, and longevityWhy some people feel worse when they fast (hint: vitamin D plays a key role)Fasting with your menstrual cycleAutoimmunity, MCAS, adrenal health, and post-viral fatigue — when fasting helps and when it harmsMy personal experience with the Fasting Mimicking Diet (ProLon) — and why I’m doing it againSimple tips to manage hunger and cravingsA must-watch new documentary on food, aging, and the future of health featuring Dr. Valter LongoIf you’re ready to try the Fasting Mimicking Diet, you can get 20% off your ProLon 5-Day kit — including their new organic version — using the code VICTORIA at prolon.co.uk.Tune in now and learn how to fast in a way that truly supports your immune system, hormones, and long-term health.You can watch Fasting and the Longevity Revolution here.If you are ready for change, download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here so you can get started.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition.Some resources or products mentioned in this episode may include affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them — at no additional cost to you. I only recommend tools and products I believe in and use with clients.Ask ChatGPTThanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textIn this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Eric Osansky, a functional medicine practitioner and leading voice in holistic thyroid care, to explore what really drives autoimmune thyroid conditions like Graves’ disease.We go beyond the standard treatment model and unpack the root causes—from gut imbalances and nutrient depletions to stress, infections, and environmental triggers. Dr. Osansky shares his own personal journey with Graves’, and how that experience shaped his approach to supporting others with hyperthyroidism.We also discuss:Why calming the nervous system is a vital part of thyroid recoveryThe role of gut health, food sensitivities, and nutrient statusFunctional testing tools to uncover what’s beneath the surfaceHow to make empowered, informed decisions—without fearIf you’ve been told medication or radioactive iodine are your only options, this episode offers a refreshing, science-informed perspective on what's possible with the right support.🌿 A must-listen for anyone navigating Graves’, autoimmune thyroid disease, or looking to understand the why behind their symptoms.🔗 Connect with Dr. Eric Osansky🌐 Website: Dr. Eric Osansky📷 Instagram: @dr.ericosansky🐦 X (Twitter): @EricOsansky📘 Facebook: Dr. Eric OsanskyTune in wherever you get your podcasts.If you are ready for change, download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here so you can get started.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition.Some resources or products mentioned in this episode may include affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them — at no additional cost to you. I only recommend tools and products I believe in and use with clients.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textIn this episode of The Autoimmune Reset, I’m diving into one of the most overlooked — yet foundational — drivers of autoimmune disease: your biological barriers.From your gut lining to your skin, lungs, gums, and even your blood-brain barrier, these protective systems are your body's frontline defence. When they break down, your immune system starts reacting to everything — sometimes even your own tissues.I also explore the role of the cell membrane — your final internal barrier — and how damage at this level can disrupt mitochondrial health, nutrient transport, and immune tolerance.Whether you're dealing with conditions like RA, psoriasis, MCAS, or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), this episode will help you understand why barrier repair is central to long-term healing.I’ll also share:The key nutrients and lifestyle shifts that help repair each barrier — including nervous system support tools like Nurosym, which you can learn more about here (use code VJ5 for a 5% discount at checkout)Why I regularly use the Metabolomix+ test in the Autoimmune Nutrition Clinic. You can learn more about the Cell Health Testing package here.And how BodyBio PC supports cellular health and membrane repair from the inside out. You can try BodyBio PC and get 15% off with my code VJ15:UK siteUS siteThis is an episode packed with insights — and solutions — for anyone navigating autoimmunity, fatigue, or chronic inflammation.If you are ready for change, download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here so you can get started.The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition.Some resources or products mentioned in this episode may include affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them — at no additional cost to you. I only recommend tools and products I believe in and use with clients.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.

Send us a textIn this episode, I uncover the hidden role that methylation plays in hair loss—particularly in conditions like alopecia areata—and why supporting your methylation pathways could be the missing link in your healing journey.We explore:What methylation actually is and why it impacts hair, immune balance, detox, and energyThe key nutrients involved (like B12, folate, choline, and glycine)—and what happens when they’re depletedHow genetics like MTHFR, COMT, and CBS variants can affect your hair growth, hormone clearance, and moodThe symptom patterns I see in clinic that point to sluggish methylation (even without testing)My personal experience with alopecia areata, functional testing, and how uncovering my methylation issues changed everythingHow to use testing like Lifecode Gx and Metabolomix+ to identify methylation blocksFood, lifestyle, and supplement strategies I use personally and with clients to support these pathways—gently and effectivelyYou’ll come away with a fresh perspective on hair loss—one that goes beyond iron and hormones—and practical tools to support your body where it needs it most.Mentioned in this episode:Lifecode Gx methylation panel – available through the Autoimmune Nutrition ClinicMetabolomix+ advanced nutrient and detox testOssa Organics Bone Broth – use code VJ10 for 10% offBodyBio supplements – including phospholipids and butyrate for detox and cell repair - use code VJ15 for 15% off. Bon Charge red light therapy – supports hair and skin health (code AUTOIMMUNITY for 15% off)Nurosym vagus nerve stimulation – code VH5 for 5% off which you can learn more about here. Whether you’ve been dealing with hair loss for years or you’re only just starting to connect the dots between fatigue, gut health, and methylation—this episode will give you the insight and clarity you need to move forward.You can also download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here. Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.