In this episode of Thyroid Strong, Dr. Emily Kiberd tackles one of the most overlooked but surprisingly common root causes she sees in her one-on-one clients: parasites.

While often considered taboo to talk about in the U.S., parasites like giardia, hookworm, roundworm, and blastocystis hominis are not just something you pick up while traveling abroad. They are far more common — even in developed countries — and can silently drain your energy, inflame your gut, block nutrient absorption, and prevent you from building muscle, regardless of how clean you eat or how heavy you lift.

Dr. Emily explains the hidden ways parasites sneak into our bodies, why women with Hashimoto’s are particularly vulnerable, and how infections can mimic or trigger thyroid flares. She also shares the advanced testing she uses beyond the standard GI Map to identify what’s really going on, so her clients can stop guessing and start healing.

If you’ve been hitting the gym, eating protein, and still feel bloated, foggy, and stuck in a body that won’t respond,  this episode may reveal the missing link.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why parasites are massively underdiagnosed in the U.S.
• Common exposures that increase parasite risk (pets, produce, nail-biting, undercooked meat, barefoot walking)
• How parasites block protein absorption and muscle building
• Signs parasites may be silently draining your energy
• Why parasites can trigger thyroid flares through leaky gut and molecular mimicry
• The lab markers that point to parasites (eosinophils, low ferritin, low B12)
• The differences between GI Map testing and microscopy stool tests
• Why personalized functional medicine is essential for parasite treatment

Highlights:

00:26 The hidden threat of parasites

01:56 Common ways you can get  parasites

04:48 Impact of parasites on muscle and protein absorption

08:35 Parasites and thyroid health

09:28 Testing for parasites

13:11 How to get support through 1:1 functional medicine coaching

Links & Resources

Apply for 1:1 Thyroid Strong Functional Medicine Coaching Here:

👉 1:1 Functional Health Coaching – Dr. Emily Kiberd

Learn my secret to sustainable weight loss for Hashimoto’s.

👉 Join Thyroid Strong Elite: 6-Month Group Coaching

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