Integrative and Functional Medicine Approach to Autoimmune Disease

Dr. Rajsree Nambudripad, MD, has extensive experience in treating autoimmune conditions using an integrative and functional medicine approach. She specializes in helping patients with conditions such as:

  • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
  • Lupus
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Scleroderma
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis)

Rather than simply managing symptoms with immunosuppressive medications, Dr. Nambudripad’s approach focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of inflammation. By targeting diet, environmental exposures, gut health, and hormonal imbalances, she aims to prevent and even reverse disease progression while supporting long-term immune regulation.

Healing the Gut: The Foundation of Immune Health

A healthy gut microbiome is critical to a balanced immune system. Since nearly 70 percent of the immune system is housed in the gut, Dr. Nambudripad prioritizes gut healing as a first step in autoimmune treatment. She may recommend functional gut microbiome testing to assess digestive health and identify potential triggers such as:

  • Dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria)
  • Leaky gut (intestinal permeability)
  • Infections or overgrowths (such as SIBO or Candida)
  • Food sensitivities that contribute to inflammation

By healing the gut, the immune system can achieve better regulation, reducing autoimmune flare-ups and promoting overall healing.

Food as Medicine: An Anti-Inflammatory Approach

Dr. Nambudripad strongly believes in the power of food as medicine. Dietary choices have a profound impact on immune function and inflammation. She tailors individualized nutrition plans based on:

Anti-inflammatory foods and targeted natural supplements can significantly improve autoimmune symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and support the body’s ability to heal.

The Role of Hormonal Balance in Autoimmune Disease

Hormones play a key role in immune system function. Estrogen dominance, thyroid imbalances, and adrenal dysfunction can all contribute to autoimmunity. Dr. Nambudripad evaluates hormonal imbalances and works to restore equilibrium through natural and bio-identical approaches. By bringing the body into balance, she enhances its ability to regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation.

Personalized Care 

Every patient’s autoimmune condition is unique, requiring an individualized and comprehensive treatment plan. Depending on the specific condition, Dr. Nambudripad:

  • Guides patients through customized diet and lifestyle changes to support immune balance
  • Recommends targeted supplements and functional medicine protocols for healing

Many patients see stabilization or significant improvement within 3 to 6 months, with some achieving complete remission—both symptomatically and in their lab markers.

For a deeper understanding of autoimmune disease and how functional medicine can help, watch Dr. Rajsree Nambudripad’s video on Autoimmune Disease.