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Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD’s Autoimmune Wisdom Shines on Today Show

Imagine feeling exhausted and struggling with unexplained health issues, only to be offered antidepressants as the solution. This isn't just one person's story—it's the reality for more than 25% of adults, often with no identified medical cause. 

Enter Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD—a Harvard-educated physician and four-time New York Times bestselling author—who has made it her mission to unravel these health mysteries. She recently shared her groundbreaking insights on NBC's Today Show.

In this eye-opening interview, she dissected the multifaceted issues of autoimmune diseases—conditions affecting over 20 million Americans. Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD offered a fresh perspective beyond conventional medicine.

She expertly explained autoimmune conditions and highlighted three key contributing factors: genetics, leaky gut, and environmental triggers. She also shared practical, gene-friendly tips for better health that anyone can implement.

Join us as we explore her innovative approach to healing, which blends cutting-edge science with actionable lifestyle changes.

Interview Recap: Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD Decodes Autoimmunity

Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD expertly broke down the complexities of autoimmune diseases, demonstrating her ability to explain complex concepts in an understandable way. When defining autoimmune diseases, she put it simply: "It's when your immune system attacks your own cells and tissues."

What are autoimmune diseases?

Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders where the immune system, which normally protects the body from harmful invaders, mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. There are over 100 known autoimmune diseases, each affecting different body parts.

In these conditions, the immune system loses its ability to distinguish between foreign cells and the body’s own cells. This confusion triggers the production of autoantibodies which attack healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.

The prevalence of these conditions is staggering:


Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD identified three key factors that appear to be required in order to develop an autoimmune disease, according to research from Alessio Fasano, M.D., a pediatric gastroenterologist at Massachusetts General Hospital:

  • Genetics: Many autoimmune diseases have a genetic component. If you have a family history of autoimmune diseases, you're at a higher risk of developing one yourself.

  • Leaky Gut: The health of your digestive tract plays a crucial role in autoimmune conditions. Issues with the gut – specifically increased intestinal permeability – can contribute to developing autoimmune diseases.

  • Environmental Triggers: These play a critical role, with stress being a key factor. Remarkably, while genetic predisposition accounts for about 30% of autoimmune disease risk, a whopping 70% is attributed to environmental factors. These triggers include:

    • Stress: Chronic stress can dysregulate the immune system.
    • Trauma: Both physical and emotional trauma can affect immune function.
    • Diet: Certain foods can trigger autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals.
    • Infections: Some pathogens can confuse the immune system.
    • Medications: Certain medications may trigger autoimmune responses.
    • Toxins: Exposure to environmental toxins can potentially trigger autoimmune reactions.

    Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD emphasized that these triggers don't work in isolation but interact with each other in complex ways. This holistic approach aligns with 3X4 Genetics' philosophy that health is a unique combination of genes and choices.

    Or as they like to say:

    H = G + C (Health = Genetics + Choices)


    How's that for a catchy formula?

    By understanding these interconnected factors, Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD approach offers a roadmap for personalized autoimmune health management. It's all about empowering individuals to take control of their health journey.

    Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD’s Gene-ius Tips

    But wait, there's more! This star doctor didn't just drop knowledge bombs; she armed viewers with practical, gene-friendly tips. 

    Let's break them down:

    1. Breathwork: Your stress-busting superhero 

    • Deep abdominal breathing technique: Four counts in, six counts out
    • Frequency: Practice for five minutes daily
    • Benefits: Resets nervous system, supports immune function
    • Pro tip: Use this as a mini-meditation whenever you feel overwhelmed

    2. Three-week elimination diet: Your gut's VIP getaway 

    • Foods to avoid: Gluten, dairy, nightshades (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes)
    • Duration: 21 days
    • After the diet: Reintroduce foods one at a time, every three days
    • Listen to your body: Note any reactions or changes in how you feel
    • Goal: Identify potential food triggers and improve gut health

    3. Sleep tracking: Your ticket to genetic greatness 

    • Aim for: 7-8.5 hours of sleep nightly
    • What to track: Sleep duration, deep sleep, and REM cycles
    • Tools: Wearable devices or smartphone apps
    • Focus on quality: It's not just about hours, but restorative rest
    • Optimize your environment: Dark, cool room, consistent bedtime routine

    Unlock your genetic superpower.

    Discover your DNA's secrets with 3X4 Genetics today. Get it now!


    The Autoimmune Cure: Your Health Lottery Ticket

    Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD’s latest book, "The Autoimmune Cure: Healing the Trauma and Other Triggers That Have Turned Your Body Against You," is making waves in the health community.

    The book explores the often-overlooked connection between trauma and autoimmune conditions, offering a fresh perspective on these complex disorders.

    But this isn't just about identifying problems—Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD provides practical solutions. 

    The book contains actionable strategies for resetting your immune system, covering everything from dietary adjustments and sleep improvements to breathwork techniques and gut health optimization.

    One of the book's most striking revelations is that up to 80% of people with autoimmune issues experienced significant stress before their diagnosis. This insight helps connect the dots for millions struggling with symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and unexplained weight gain.

    At 304 pages, "The Autoimmune Cure" is a comprehensive guide to healing that addresses body, mind, and spirit.

    It complements the personalized genetic insights you get from 3X4 Genetics, empowering you to take control of your health journey.

    3X4 Genetics: Your Personal Health Symphony Conductor

    Excited to apply Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD’s insights to your own health journey? 3X4 Genetics can help turn that excitement into action! 

    3X4 Genetics' cutting-edge testing doesn't just reveal genetic information—it empowers you to make informed decisions about your health. Here's how:

    Get a personalized genetic blueprint from 3X4 Genetics

    1. Personalized Insights: 3X4 Genetics analyzes your unique genetic blueprint to provide tailored health recommendations.
    2. Actionable Steps: Just like Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD’s (Gottfried) tips, you'll receive practical, gene-based strategies to optimize your wellbeing.
    3. Holistic Approach: 3X4 Genetics looks at the big picture—your genes, lifestyle, and environment—to create a comprehensive health plan.
    4. Expert Support: A team of genetic specialists (including visionaries like Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD) is available to guide you every step of the way.

    By understanding your genetic predispositions, you can take proactive steps to prevent issues like autoimmune diseases before they start. It's not just about treating symptoms—it's about unlocking your body's full potential for vibrant health.

    3X4 Genetics is all about turning those "maybe someday" health goals into "starting today" action plans. With Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD and a crew of genetic geniuses, you're not just reading your health story—you're actively writing it, one gene-informed choice at a time.

    Decode your unique genetic blueprint. 

    Get your personalized 3X4 Genetics report today! Download a sample now.


    Ready to unlock the secrets of your brain, hormones & genes?

    Webinar on health & genetics ft. Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD & Dr. Joffe

    Don't miss this incredible opportunity to hear Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD and Dr. Yael Joffe, Founder and Chief Science Officer of 3X4 Genetics, a pioneer in nutrigenomics and personalized nutrition, share their groundbreaking insights! 

    Join us on September 19 for a mind-expanding webinar that could transform your approach to health.

    • Dive deep into brain health
    • Decode your hormonal mysteries
    • Discover how your genes influence it all

    Whether you're a health enthusiast, a practitioner, or simply curious about optimizing your wellbeing, this webinar is your ticket to cutting-edge, personalized wellness strategies.

    Reserve your spot now and take the first step towards a healthier, more vibrant you! 

    Unlock brain, hormone & genetic secrets.

    Join Sara (Gottfried) Szal MD & Dr. Joffe on September 19 - Register now!