neuroimmune Health​

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The brain and the immune system are intertwined. What impacts our immune system can also impact our brain. Kirstie, Becki, Jess and Kerry form the You Nutrition Clinic's complex case MDT. We use a multi-system approach to tackle any presentation. 

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PNIE

 

“The interaction between the elements of the PNIE is explained by changes either in endocrine and neural function, which affect the immune response, or by stimulation of the immune system, which modifies endocrine and nervous function; in either case, the individual’s behaviour affects the other three systems” (Gonzalez et al, 2017).

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Research has shown that behaviour, neural pathways, the endocrine systems and immune function are intrinsically linked. The relationship between the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis and the autonomic mechanisms that link the central nervous system, the endocrine system and immune responses is well recognised. These pathways interact with each other to achieve an internal homeostasis. When one of these pathways is disrupted, there can be a knock-on effect on the other pathways. ​

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The term PNEI was first coined in 1936 by Hans Selye.  In 1981, Robert Ader, PhD co-edited the book ‘Psychoneuroimmunology’ (known as PNI) which supported the idea that the brain and immune system are an integrated system. This term has been further expanded to include the endocrine system and is now a field of research called 'psychoneuroimmunoendocrinology' (PNIE). ​​

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At You Nutrition Clinic, our highly trained RNTPs consider how all systems intertwine and the impact that this has on our biochemistry and physiology. This is particularly relevant for MND/ALS and other conditions that have multiple systems involved. Determining the root cause of any diagnosis is a key differentiating component of the functional medicine approach. We consider the impact of trauma and emotional stress, hormonal imbalance, gut and immune dysfunction on neurological health. We then determine the drivers of this dysfunction and work with our clients to rebalance any dysfunctional biochemical pathways. Drivers may include environmental factors (pathogens and toxins) and/or genetic predisposition to autoimmunity. ​

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Supporting Children with PANS & PANDAS

 

We support children with PANS and PANDAS through our Hello World Programme - a structured, clinically informed, systems-based approach designed for complex neurological and immune-related conditions.

 

PANS and PANDAS are not single-issue conditions. They often involve a combination of immune dysregulation, infection triggers, post-infectious neuro-inflammation, and gut imbalance, which can present as sudden changes in behaviour, anxiety, OCD patterns, tics, sleep disruption, and sensory sensitivities.

 

In many cases, symptoms are driven by an immune response to an infection that continues to drive inflammation within the brain, even after the initial trigger has passed. Rather than addressing symptoms in isolation, we focus on understanding and supporting the underlying systems driving these changes.

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The Hello World Programme works in carefully guided stages to:

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• Identify and address underlying triggers, with particular focus on infections that may be driving ongoing immune activation

• Regulate the immune system and reduce inflammatory load

• Support the gut–immune–brain axis, helping to restore communication between key systems

• Nourish and stabilise the nervous system through targeted nutrition and supplementation

• Build resilience over time, helping to reduce flares and support more consistent regulation

 

We do not take an aggressive or reductionist approach. Instead, we work to support the body’s capacity to respond, regulate and recover, ensuring each step is appropriate for your child.

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Environmental factors

 

Several environmental factors are implicated in neurological and neurodegenerative health conditions. This includes Lyme Disease and co-infections, mould toxicity, fungal overgrowth and increased viral load, as well as metals and other environmental pollutants that can trigger an immune reaction. Our team of highly experienced practitioners consider your life and health history, in conjunction with a range of specialist functional tests, to understand the root cause of your health concern. We then determine the best course of action, working closely with you to support your diagnosis, and where possible, resolve your symptoms. ​​​​