What is Lymes Disease and how can it be supported by Nutritional Therapy & Functional Medicine?
Lyme disease is a complex illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. Despite its prevalence and impact on individuals' lives, Lyme disease remains a challenging condition to diagnose and manage effectively. I had the opportunity to speak with Angie, a Lyme Disease Nutritionist at Surrey Centre for Nutrition, to gain insights into the connections between nutrition and Lyme disease.
Angie's expertise in Lyme disease nutrition stems from her extensive training and experience in this field. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Nutritional Therapy from the University of West London and has undergone additional training specific to Lyme disease. Angie is a dedicated member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).
As a Lyme Disease Nutritionist, Angie takes a holistic approach to support individuals affected by this condition. She recognises the complex interplay between nutrition, immune function, and overall well-being in managing Lyme disease symptoms. Angie emphasises the importance of personalised nutrition plans tailored to each individual's specific needs and circumstances.
What is Lyme disease and how does it impact the body?
Lyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks (also known as deer ticks). These ticks are commonly found in grassy or wooded areas or where livestock and deer can be found.
When an infected tick bites, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. If left untreated, Lyme disease can affect various organs, including the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system. The disease progresses in stages, and its symptoms may vary. Lyme Disease is often called ‘The Great Imitator’ as it has such varying symptoms.
The early stage of Lyme disease, known as localised or early localised Lyme disease, typically occurs within 3 to 30 days after the tick bite. The most recognisable symptom is a characteristic ‘bull’s eye skin rash called erythema migrans, but only approximately 30% of people infected develop this symptom. This rash often expands in a circular pattern and may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
If not treated during the early stage, the infection can progress to the early disseminated stage, which occurs within weeks to months after the initial infection. During this stage, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, leading to more widespread symptoms. These may include additional skin rashes, muscle and joint pain, facial paralysis (Bell's palsy), heart palpitations, dizziness, and severe headaches.
In some cases, if Lyme disease remains untreated for a prolonged period, it can progress to the late disseminated stage. This stage may occur months to years after the initial infection. Symptoms at this stage can include severe fatigue, persistent muscle and joint pain, cognitive difficulties, memory problems, sleep disturbances, and neurological issues like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs.
How does Functional Medicine approach the treatment of Lyme Disease?
Functional medicine takes a comprehensive and individualised approach to the treatment of Lyme disease. It focuses on addressing the root causes of the illness and restoring optimal health and function to the body as a whole.
Here are some key aspects of how Functional Medicine approaches the treatment of Lyme Disease:
Comprehensive Assessment: Functional Medicine practitioners take a detailed medical history and perform thorough evaluations to understand the unique factors contributing to each patient's Lyme disease. This includes assessing lifestyle factors, environmental exposures, genetic predispositions, and overall health status.
Personalised Recommendations: Functional medicine recognises that each person is different and tailors recommendations accordingly. The goal is to address the specific imbalances and dysfunctions in an individual's body. This may involve a combination of therapies, including nutrition, supplementation, lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and appropriate medication when necessary.
Strengthening the Immune System: Lyme Disease can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and other health issues. Functional medicine aims to support and strengthen the immune system through targeted interventions, such as optimising nutrition, balancing gut health, addressing nutrient deficiencies, and reducing inflammation.
Addressing Co-Infections and Complications: Lyme Disease is often accompanied by co-infections, such as Babesia, Bartonella, or Ehrlichia, which can complicate the treatment process. Functional medicine practitioners recognise and address these co-infections, often using a combination of antimicrobial therapies, immune support, and other appropriate interventions.
Detoxification Support: Lyme disease and its treatment can result in an accumulation of toxins in the body. Functional medicine approaches include supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways to minimise the toxic burden and promote overall healing. This may involve methods such as targeted nutritional support, liver support, and lifestyle modifications.
Long-Term Support and Follow-up: Lyme disease treatment can be a complex and ongoing process. Functional medicine practitioners emphasise the importance of regular follow-up visits, monitoring progress, and adjusting treatment protocols as needed. They aim to provide ongoing support to optimise the patient's overall health and well-being.
What are the underlying causes of Lyme disease that Functional Medicine considers?
Functional Medicine considers several underlying causes and contributing factors to Lyme disease. While the primary cause is the infection with the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria transmitted by ticks, Functional Medicine looks for the root cause of Lyme Disease for that individual and explores additional factors that can influence the development, severity, and progression of Lyme Disease.
Some of the underlying causes considered in Functional Medicine include:
Impaired Immune Function: A weakened immune system can make individuals more susceptible to Lyme disease and can also impact the body's ability to effectively fight the infection. Functional medicine aims to identify and address immune system dysfunctions, such as chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, and underlying infections, that may hinder the body's ability to respond to and control the Lyme infection.
Co-Infections: Lyme disease is often accompanied by co-infections, such as Babesia, Bartonella, or Ehrlichia, which can complicate the diagnosis and treatment. Functional Medicine recognises the presence of these co-infections and considers them as potential factors that contribute to the overall illness presentation and treatment approach.
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as exposure to toxins, chronic stress, poor nutrition, inadequate sleep, and lack of physical activity can weaken the body's defences and make it more vulnerable to infections. Functional Medicine aims to address these factors to support the body's innate healing capacity, balance and strengthen the immune system.
Gut Health and Microbiome Imbalances: The health of the gastrointestinal system and the balance of gut bacteria (microbiome) play a significant role in immune function and overall well-being. Restoring gut health through appropriate dietary interventions, probiotics, and other therapies can be a part of the treatment approach.
Genetic Predispositions: Genetic factors can influence immune function, detoxification pathways, susceptibility, and other biological processes relevant to Lyme disease. Understanding these genetic factors can help guide treatment decisions and personalise the approach to each individual.
Emotional and Mental Well-being: Chronic illnesses like Lyme disease can have a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being. Strategies like counselling, stress reduction techniques, and mind-body approaches may be incorporated into the treatment plan.
Functional Medicine approaches Lyme disease by considering these underlying root causes and tailoring the treatment approach to address the unique needs of each individual. By taking a comprehensive and holistic view, Functional Medicine aims to optimise overall health, support the body's healing processes, and promote long-term well-being.
How does Functional Medicine address the symptoms of Lyme disease?
Functional medicine takes a multifaceted approach to address the symptoms of Lyme Disease. Rather than focusing solely on symptom management, Functional Medicine aims to identify and address the root causes of symptoms, promote overall health, and support the body's natural healing processes.
Here are some ways in which Functional Medicine may address the symptoms of Lyme disease:
Individualised Treatment Plans: Functional Medicine recognises that Lyme disease can present differently in each individual, and treatment plans are tailored to address the specific symptoms and needs of the patient. The focus is on understanding the underlying factors contributing to the symptoms and designing a personalised approach accordingly.
Nutritional Support: Functional medicine emphasises the importance of optimal nutrition to support the body's healing processes. Nutritional interventions may include a nutrient-dense diet rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory foods, and adequate protein. Specific dietary protocols may be recommended to reduce inflammation and support immune function.
Supplementation: Functional Medicine practitioners may recommend supplements to address nutrient imbalances and support various body systems affected by Lyme Disease. This may include supplements to support immune function, reduce inflammation, promote detoxification, enhance energy production, and support the gut microbiome.
Lifestyle Modifications: Functional medicine recognises the role of lifestyle factors in symptom management. Strategies such as stress reduction techniques, adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and healthy stress management can support the body's resilience and improve overall well-being.
Detoxification Support: Lyme disease and its treatment can result in the accumulation of toxins in the body. Functional medicine may incorporate detoxification strategies to support the body's natural detox pathways.
Addressing Hormonal Imbalances: Lyme disease can disrupt hormone balance in the body, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Functional Medicine may address hormonal imbalances by assessing hormone levels and using targeted interventions such as diet, supplements, or lifestyle modifications.
Mind-Body Techniques: Chronic illnesses like Lyme Disease can have a significant impact on mental and emotional well-being. Functional Medicine may incorporate techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, counselling, or other stress reduction modalities to support mental and emotional well-being.
Can Functional Medicine help with the prevention of Lyme Disease?
Functional Medicine can play a role in the prevention of Lyme Disease. While avoiding tick bites is the primary method of preventing Lyme Disease, Functional Medicine takes a comprehensive approach to optimise overall health and strengthen the body's defences against infections.
Are there specific diagnostic tests used in Functional Medicine to identify Lyme Disease?
Functional Medicine practitioners may use specific diagnostic tests to identify Lyme Disease, along with other tools and assessments. While the standard diagnostic tests for Lyme disease often give false negatives, Functional Medicine may incorporate additional tests and assessments to provide a more comprehensive evaluation.
Here are some diagnostic tests commonly used in Functional Medicine to identify Lyme Disease:
Standard Laboratory Tests: As Lyme Disease directly disables the immune response against Borrelia bacteria standard laboratory test such as enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and Western blot tests, which detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria may provide false negatives in the later stages of the disease.
Advanced Laboratory Testing: These tests may include testing which detects the genetic material of the bacteria directly, and can be used to identify early-stage infections. Tests that are highly sensitive and can detect even one single Borrelia burgdorferi-reactive antibody. With detection levels that can be as low as one cell in 100.000. These tests reflect the current Borrelia burgdorferi activity of chronic and recent Borrelia burgdorferi infections which is helpful when monitoring the effectiveness of Functional Medicine Practitioners recommendations. Other advanced tests may assess the presence of co-infections often associated with Lyme Disease, such as Babesia, Bartonella, or Ehrlichia.
Functional Medicine practitioners utilise the natural killer (NK) cell count test as an adjunctive measure to assess Lyme Disease activity. This test measures the specific immune cells for Lyme Disease and the counts may indicate ongoing Lyme Disease suppression of the immune system, even in cases where standard antibody tests may be negative.
Can Functional Medicine help with the long-term management and recovery from Lyme disease?
Lyme Disease is a complex condition that can have persistent symptoms and long-term effects on the body. Functional Medicine takes a comprehensive and personalised approach to address the underlying factors contributing to Lyme Disease and supports the body's healing processes.
Here's how:
Comprehensive Assessment: Functional Medicine practitioners conduct a thorough assessment of the individual's medical history, symptoms, lifestyle factors, and potential underlying causes of Lyme disease. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify the factors contributing to the persistence of symptoms and guides treatment decisions.
Individualised Treatment Plans: Functional Medicine recognises that each person's experience with Lyme Disease is unique. Functional Medicine practitioners develop personalised treatment plans tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals. These plans may include dietary modifications, targeted supplementation, lifestyle changes, and other interventions to address the underlying causes of Lyme disease and support the body's healing processes.
Addressing Co-Infections: Lyme Disease is often accompanied by other tick-borne infections or co-infections, such as Babesia, Bartonella, or Ehrlichia. Functional Medicine practitioners may incorporate specific treatments or therapies to address these co-infections alongside the management of Lyme Disease.
Immune System Support: Lyme Disease can have a significant impact on the immune system. Functional Medicine Practitioners support the immune system, this may involve nutritional interventions, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplements to optimise immune function and support long-term recovery.
Addressing Chronic Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a common feature of Lyme Disease and can contribute to persistent symptoms. Through dietary modifications, targeted supplementation, stress reduction techniques, and other interventions, Functional Medicine aims to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Lifestyle Modifications: These may include recommendations for stress reduction, adequate rest and sleep, gentle exercise, healthy nutrition, and environmental considerations to support overall well-being and symptom management.
Functional Medicine can provide a supportive framework for individuals with Lyme Disease, helping them navigate the complexities of the condition and address the underlying factors that contribute to their symptoms. Functional Medicine practitioners ensure proper monitoring and ongoing support throughout the long-term management and recovery process.
What are some success stories or testimonials of individuals who have used functional medicine for Lyme disease treatment?
When I first came to see Angie Ash I was experiencing considerable fatigue, brain fog, headaches and joint pain that had greatly affected my ability to live a normal life.
I am so happy to have found Angie, with her support and knowledge she helped me discover why I was experiencing chronic illness Lyme Disease and Genetic Haemochromatosis.
I feel very at ease and able to discuss my health issues and symptoms with Angie. Working with Angie to tackle my Lyme Disease moved my Borrelia-specific immune marker into the normal range (41 to 287) and I now have more energy, less headaches and joint pain, improved quality of sleep and a better understanding of my body. I can now see the light and start to live more of a normal life. I would 10/10 recommend Angie to other people. - J.M., Worcester
I am extremely lucky to have found Angie Ash when I did. I have MS, have got through breast cancer, was in a toxic relationship and was at a point where divorce and my house sale were happening... lots of stress in the mix then. PLUS I was losing weight even though I was underweight already and my gut wasn’t working properly.
Angie Ash is kind, caring, knowledgeable, friendly and very good at what she does. I tested positive for SIBO (which with her support is now resolved), Epstein Barr Virus and Lyme Disease (and a few other co-infections). She also supported me with an underactive thyroid and worked to detoxify my body.
My immune Lyme marker is now nearly in the normal range and my immune system has woken up and is now doing its job again. Our consultations covered all aspects of health not just the physical body but the emotional and mental wellbeing too. It all worked well for me – she opened doors to things that I just wasn't aware of. She's made a massive difference to my life, not only in terms of my physical health but also in the context of ideas on how to get through trauma. Truly amazing. - R.O., Ceredigion, Wales
What is the takeaway?
Angie's approach to Lyme disease nutrition is rooted in evidence-based practices and the principles of functional medicine. She understands the complexities of this condition and the unique challenges individuals face in managing their symptoms. By providing personalised guidance and support, Angie plays a vital role in helping individuals with Lyme disease optimise their nutrition and enhance their overall well-being.
In conclusion, my conversation with Angie, a knowledgeable and compassionate Lyme Disease Nutritionist at Surrey Centre for Nutrition, highlighted the significance of nutrition in managing Lyme disease. Through her expertise and holistic approach, Angie offers valuable support to individuals impacted by this complex condition, aiming to improve their quality of life and overall health outcomes.
Are you or someone you know struggling with Lyme disease?
Book a FREE discovery call with us at the Surrey Centre for Nutrition to opt for a natural and holistic approach to your condition. We integrate Nutritional Therapy with Functional Medicine to ensure that you have a treatment plan completely suited to you and your needs.
Written by Julie, Functional Medicine Practitioner & registered Nutritional therapist.
It is important to note that functional medicine and nutrition are complementary to conventional medical treatments. If you are experiencing Fertility issues or related health concerns, it is advisable to work with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide guidance, monitor your progress, and collaborate with you to develop an individualised treatment plan.