ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Discover how your genes (HLA DQ genes) impact gluten intolerance, celiac disease risk, and autoimmunity like Hashimoto's. Uncover hidden gluten sources and practical health tips.
Join your host, Genetics Expert and International Fitgenes Educator & Trainer Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP, alongside co-host Mikayla Wachsmann, MS, CNS, and Lily—his "Frenchie".
In this episode, we dive deep into the science and culture surrounding gluten intolerance. We explore how your DNA dictates your risk for celiac disease and autoimmunity, break down the crucial differences between allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances, and expose the hidden sources of gluten sneaking into everyday foods—so you can make informed choices and protect your health long term.
• The Power of Genetic Testing: Why understanding your unique DNA offers a lifelong health roadmap to prevent chronic illness before symptoms start.
• Allergy vs. Intolerance vs. Sensitivity: Clearing up confusion between IgE/IgG immune-driven reactions and digestive enzyme deficiencies.
• Celiac Disease & Autoimmunity: How genetic variations in the HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 genes interact with leaky gut to trigger autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
• Modern Wheat & Glyphosate: How industrial farming practices, dwarf wheat breeding, and heavy pesticide/glyphosate use contribute to non-celiac gluten sensitivity in the U.S.
• The "BROWS" Framework: Identifying core gluten-containing grains—Barley, Rye, Oats (via contamination), Wheat, and Spelt.
• Hidden Gluten & Cross-Reactivity: Exposing sneaky sources of gluten in everyday items (soy sauce, imitation crab, salad dressings) and non-gluten foods that can mimic gluten reactions in the body (dairy, rice, yeast).
If you found this episode eye-opening, make sure to hit the Follow button here on Spotify, share it with a friend, and leave us a 5-star rating to help more people decode their DNA!
Connect with Dr. Sam
• IG: @fitgenesusa
• W: www.fitgenesusa.com
Are you a health practitioner ready to decode your patients' genetics and offer truly personalized, root-cause care?
Elevate your practice by heading over to FitgenesUSA.com today to become a certified practitioner and gain access to our advanced genetic testing and clinical support.
TIME STAMPS
• 00:00 - Welcome & Today's Topic
• 02:24 - Allergy, Sensitivity & Intolerance Explained
• 07:06 - Undetected Celiac Disease & Autoimmunity
• 09:40 - Glyphosate & Modern Wheat's Impact
• 18:22 - Decoding Genetics (SNPs & HLA Genes)
• 26:18 - 3 Components of Autoimmune Disease
• 30:57 - Foods with Gluten & The B.R.O.W.S. Rule
• 37:13 - Cross-Reactive Foods & Hidden Gluten
• 45:54 - Managing Intolerance & Leaky Gut
• 50:10 - Gluten, Thyroid Attacks & Inflammation
• 54:02 - Gut Testing & Healing Strategies
DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, cures or treatment. Neither Dr. Sam nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplement routine, or overall health plan based on genetic information or podcast discussions. Dr. Sam Shay, DC, FMCP is the founder of and has a direct financial interest in FitgenesUSA testing, the Fitgenes Genetic Blueprint, and the CarbChoice Advanced.
References:
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3945755/
