IBS, Leaky Gut & Autoimmune Arthritis: The LPS Connection You Need to Know
Send us a textIBS, Leaky Gut & Autoimmune Arthritis: The LPS Connection You Need to KnowIn this episode, we’re exploring a hidden driver behind joint pain, chronic bloating, and immune dysfunction: the link between IBS, leaky gut, and autoimmune arthritis — and how a molecule called lipopolysaccharide (LPS) may be at the root of it all.Join VJ Hamilton, registered nutritionist and autoimmune health specialist, as we unpack the science connecting gut permeability, systemic inflammation, and immune overactivation. You’ll discover why gut health is never just about digestion — and how the state of your microbiome can influence everything from your joints to your energy levels.We also dive into:What LPS is and how it triggers inflammatory pathways in autoimmune diseaseWhy people with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions often show signs of gut dysbiosisThe latest research on TLR4, LPS-binding protein, and the immune response in arthritisHow to tell if gut permeability could be contributing to your symptoms (even without a formal diagnosis)Practical, evidence-based strategies to reduce LPS load and support gut-immune resiliencePlus, if you’re ready to reduce inflammation from the inside out, I share key tools and resources that can help you identify hidden triggers, nourish your gut lining, and take a systems-based approach to managing autoimmunity.Resources Mentioned in the Episode 🧃 Join The Spring Juice RESET – A gentle 5-day protocol to support your liver, lymph, gut, and immune system (starting 8 April)🔬 Read: At-Home Gut Health Testing Guide – How to test for gut imbalances and what markers to look for🧠 Explore Nurosym – A non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation device to support stress resilience and inflammation reduction. Use code VictoriaH10 for 10% off at checkout. Perfect for you if:You’re dealing with autoimmune arthritis, chronic gut issues, or unexplained inflammationYou’ve been told you have IBS, but suspect something deeper is going onYou’re looking for science-backed, root-cause approaches to immune and gut healthThe information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or protocols — 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 what I truly believe in and use in practice.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.
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29:46
Hashimoto’s, Fatigue & Brain Fog: Latest Research Reveals the Immune-Thyroid Link
Send us a textHashimoto’s, Fatigue & Brain Fog: Latest Research Reveals the Immune-Thyroid Link In this episode, we’re unpacking one of the most frustrating and misunderstood aspects of Hashimoto’s: the relentless fatigue and brain fog that so many people experience—even when their thyroid labs appear “normal.”Join VJ Hamilton, registered nutritionist and autoimmune health specialist, as we explore the latest research linking immune system activity, neuroinflammation, and thyroid dysfunction. You’ll learn why Hashimoto’s is far more than a thyroid condition, how quinolinic acid and microglial activation contribute to mental sluggishness, and why fatigue isn’t just about sleep—it's about inflammation, nutrient status, and mitochondrial function.We also dive into:Why conventional thyroid testing often misses the root of your symptomsThe gut–immune–thyroid axis and how it affects your energy and clarityThe role of chronic stress and poor T3 conversion in cognitive declinePractical, evidence-informed strategies to support your brain, immune system, and thyroid healthPlus, if you’re ready to go deeper and finally feel like yourself again, I share how the Thyroid Revival programme can help you reset, rebuild, and revive—offering a guided, personalised path out of fatigue and into clarity.Resources Mentioned in the Episode🧃 Join The Spring Juice RESET – A gentle 5-day protocol to support your liver, lymph, gut, and immune system (starting 8 April)🦋 Explore The Thyroid Revival – A 3-month personalised plan to support thyroid, gut, adrenal, and liver health🔬 Read: At-Home Gut Health Testing Guide – How to test for gut imbalances and what markers to look for🧠 Explore Nurosym – A non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation device to support stress resilience and inflammation reduction. Use code VictoriaH10 for 10% off at checkout. Perfect for you if:You have Hashimoto’s or suspect thyroid dysfunctionYou’re tired of being told your labs are “normal” but still feel offYou’re seeking science-backed tools to improve your energy and mental focusThe information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your medication, supplements, or treatment plan — especially if you have a diagnosed thyroid condition or are currently taking thyroid hormone replacement.Some of the products or resources mentioned in this episode may include affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through those links — at no additional cost to you. I only ever recommend products I truly believe in and have either used personally or professionally with clients.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.
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36:18
Could Your Detox Protocol Be Doing More Harm Than Good?
Send us a textCould Your Detox Protocol Be Doing More Harm Than Good?Detoxing is everywhere – from green juices to liver cleanses – but could your detox routine be making your autoimmune symptoms worse?In this episode, VJ Hamilton breaks down the truth about detoxification and what most people get wrong, especially when it comes to hormone balance, gut health, and autoimmune flares. If you've ever felt worse after trying to “cleanse,” this is the episode you need.You’ll learn: ✔ How your body’s detox pathways really work (Phase 1, 2, and 3) ✔ Why supporting your liver, bile flow, and gut is non-negotiable for autoimmune health ✔ The impact of internal toxins like excess oestrogen, cortisol, and thyroid hormone metabolites ✔ How signs like skin breakouts, fatigue, and brain fog might be linked to sluggish detox ✔ The truth about green tea, broccoli sprouts, binders – and why more isn’t always betterPlus, VJ introduces The Spring Juice RESET – designed specifically for those with autoimmunity who want to support detox gently and effectively, without triggering a flare.Resources Mentioned in the Episode 🧃 Join The Spring Juice RESET – A gentle 5-day protocol to support your liver, lymph, gut, and immune system (starting 8 April) 🦋 Explore The Thyroid Revival – A 3-month personalised plan to support thyroid, gut, adrenal, and liver health 🔬 Read: At-Home Gut Health Testing Guide – How to test for gut imbalances and what markers to look for 🧠 Explore Nurosym – A non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation device to support stress resilience and inflammation reduction. Use code VictoriaH10 for 10% off at checkout. 🎙️ Want more episodes like this? Don’t miss Is NAD+ the key to fighting autoimmune fatigue & inflammation?Ready for change? Download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here so you can get started.Prefer 1:1 support or want to explore functional testing? Find all my services here. Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.
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31:40
Struggling with Period Pain? The Endometriosis–Autoimmunity Link Explained
Send us a textIf you’re battling debilitating period pain, fatigue, digestive issues, or unexplained infertility, this episode is for you. Endometriosis is often seen as just a hormonal condition—but mounting evidence shows it may also have an autoimmune and inflammatory root.In this episode, we explore the endometriosis-autoimmunity connection, the wide range of symptoms that are often dismissed or misdiagnosed, and the underlying root causes—from immune dysfunction and gut imbalance to oestrogen dominance and toxin exposure. We also discuss the often-overlooked link with iron deficiency, and why managing endometriosis requires more than hormone suppression or surgery.You’ll walk away with dietary strategies, lifestyle tools, and an empowered perspective to better support your body and take back control.Check Out the Resources Mentioned in the Podcast:Interested in DUTCH Plus Testing? Find out more here. Looking for a simple yet effective way to calm your nervous system? Check out Nurosym here —and as a subscriber, use code "VictoriaH10" for 10% off at checkout.Ready for change? Download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here so you can get started.Prefer 1:1 support or want to explore functional testing? Find all my services here. Learn more about the Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen list here.Want to give your gut health a real boost? Symprove is offering 50% off a 3-month subscription with code AN50 – a solid option if you’re looking to support your microbiome this spring.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.
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35:08
What is Antigenic Load? And Why It Matters for Autoimmune Disease
Send us a textIn this episode of The Autoimmune RESET, I dive into a crucial but often overlooked concept: antigenic load—the total burden of foreign substances your immune system has to process. If you have an autoimmune disease or struggle with unexplained symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or food sensitivities, understanding antigenic load could be a game-changer.I break down the key mechanisms behind autoimmunity, including molecular mimicry, bystander activation, and the role of undigested food proteins in triggering immune responses. I also share insights from my own health journey and clinical experience, explaining why many people with autoimmune conditions feel worse after infections, stress, or dietary triggers.We explore how antigenic load contributes to conditions like Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and lupus—and, most importantly, how to reduce it through:Dietary changes (AIP, gluten-free, gut support)Reducing toxin exposure (pesticides, heavy metals, environmental triggers)Managing chronic infections (EBV, gut bacteria imbalances)Nervous system regulation (how tools like Nurosym support vagus nerve function)Detoxification strategies to support immune balanceIf you’re looking for actionable steps to lower your antigenic load, calm your immune system, and regain control of your health, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and join the conversation in The Autoimmune ForumCheck Out the Resources Mentioned in the Podcast:Interested in Food Reactivity Testing? Find out more here. Looking for a simple yet effective way to calm your nervous system? Check out Nurosym here —and as a subscriber, use code "VictoriaH10" for 10% off at checkout.Ready for change? Download your free copy of The Autoimmunity Recovery Plan here so you can get started.Prefer 1:1 support or want to explore functional testing? Find all my services here. Learn more about the Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen list here.Thanks for listening! You can join The Autoimmune Forum on Facebook or find me on Instagram @theautoimmunitynutritionist.
VJ Hamilton is a nutritionist, scientist, and autoimmune disease expert who founded The Autoimmunity Nutritionist Clinic, a Nutritional Therapy and Functional Medicine clinic specialising in autoimmune disease. VJ combines her lived experience overcoming autoimmune disease symptoms with her knowledge of nutrition, health, biochemistry, and immunology to provide you with the most up-to-date research on autoimmune disease. The Autoimmune RESET aims to provide you with the education and resources to empower you to take steps to transform your health and feel better than ever. In each episode, VJ will share simple ways to uplevel your diet and lifestyle, key learnings from her own journey reversing autoimmune disease, and inspirational stories from those who have reset their autoimmune symptoms and are now thriving in life. Health practitioners, mind and body experts, and scientists will be joining VJ as guests on the show, as well as those who have inspirational stories to share and are now thriving in everyday life! And don't miss the short episodes every Friday, The Friday 5, in which VJ shares five healthy must-haves for you to explore over the weekend.