My Journey to Finding Balance and Wellness
In the summer of 2015, I began experiencing serious gut problems that I initially ignored. Constant bloating became my norm, as I didn’t know any different. By the end of that summer, breakouts appeared on my forehead and chin, which felt unusual for someone in their mid-30s. Concerned, I decided to check my hormone levels. A routine test revealed elevated TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), prompting my gynecologist to suggest medication.
Before starting medication, I sought a second opinion. My hesitation stemmed from witnessing both my mother and sister take thyroid medication without seeing significant improvement in their symptoms. This new doctor identified extremely low Vitamin D levels and prescribed supplements. After six weeks, my thyroid levels improved, but another test revealed Hashimoto’s antibodies. I was advised to adjust my diet and monitor my thyroid levels.
Despite following these recommendations, I never truly felt like myself. My skin was dry, my hair was thinning, I was perpetually cold, exhausted after workouts, and my gut issues worsened. I endured severe symptoms, including cramps, nausea, irregular bowel movements, and stabbing abdominal pain.
By 2019, after undergoing two colonoscopies, a sigmoidoscopy, and countless doctor visits, the results revealed little more than an inflamed gut lining. My gastroenterologist diagnosed me with IBS and suggested the symptoms were “all in my head.” Frustrated and determined, I pushed for further investigation, leading to a SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) test, which came back positive. Antibiotics followed, but I came to realize that neither IBS nor SIBO were root causes—they were symptoms of deeper underlying issues.
The Road to Wellness
Navigating my health challenges while feeling misunderstood by the healthcare system was exhausting and disheartening. I felt stuck, constantly searching for answers to regain my health. Then, through a gym instructor, I discovered functional medicine—a practice focused on identifying the root causes of health issues and treating the body as a whole, rather than isolating symptoms or organs. It was a transformative moment that shifted my entire perspective.
Working closely with a functional medicine practitioner, I began addressing the root causes of my symptoms. Slowly but surely, I started feeling better. This experience ignited a passion within me to learn more about root cause medicine and embrace a holistic approach to health.
Healing has taught me invaluable lessons. It’s not a race, but a journey requiring patience, self-compassion, and resilience. It’s about celebrating small victories, learning from setbacks, and understanding that true wellness is achieved gradually through balance and care.
Today, I am committed to sharing what I’ve learned and providing support for others on their own journeys toward health and balance. It’s my hope that my story and the resources we offer can help you find clarity, inspiration, and the tools you need to feel your best.
With gratitude and compassion,
Bahareh