Dr. Jaclyn Smith, ND

03/04/2026

Lupus & Cardiovascular Disease

Did you know that cardiovascular disease, not lupus itself, is the leading cause of death in
people with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)? Lupus can affect both the heart and blood
vessels, making cardiovascular health particularly important for anyone living with SLE.

Research shows that the risk of heart attack is significantly higher for people with lupus, being
7–9 times greater overall, and up to 50-fold higher in younger women compared to those
without lupus. This is largely due to atherosclerosis--plaque buildup (caused by chronic
inflammation), which leads to narrowing and hardening of the arteries, and an increased risk of
heart attacks and strokes.

Other lupus-related cardiovascular complications may include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Pericarditis (inflammation of the lining around the heart)
• Endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining and valves of the heart)
• Myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation)

Clinical Consideration:
Routine cardiovascular screening is an important component of long-term lupus management. Annual assessment of blood pressure and laboratory markers, including inflammatory markers, blood glucose, and a lipid panel, can support early detection and proactive care.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I incorporate evidence-informed strategies that complement conventional care, with a focus on reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health in patients with SLE.

Education and prevention remain central to improving long-term outcomes.

01/30/2026

6 Simple Things Your Body Needs You to Know

1) Turmeric supports health – This spice is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, yet often underutilized in the diet. To improve its bioavailability, consume with a healthy fat (because it's a fat-soluble spice), and slow it's metabolism through the liver by adding a pinch of black pepper.

2) Sleep is foundational – Uninterrupted restorative sleep is critical for overall health. The longer you are asleep, the longer each deep sleep (restorative) phase becomes. Remember, however, every time you wake up, you start from the beginning.

3) Stress manifests physically – From acne to digestive disturbances to hair loss, if stress is not addressed it moves into your cells finding other ways to talk to you. The longer you ignore it, the louder your symptoms will get!

4) Gut health influences mood – Healthy balanced gut microbiota produce neurotransmitters, influence stress responses and reduce inflammation, all translating to better mental health.

5) Hydration is essential – Every cell in your body needs water to transport nutrients into the cell and waste out, facilitate essential biochemical reactions, and to regulate internal conditions. Without water there is no chance for wellness.

6) Nature promotes healing – In as little as 2 hours per week, time outdoors reduces stress hormones, improves focus, immunity, cardiovascular health, and enhances overall wellness. We came from nature...it's time to get back to it!

Your body is constantly talking to you – Listen, learn, and thrive.

Reach out today to start your journey towards wellness: https://drjaclynsmithnd.com/your-first-visit/

01/17/2026

Today is World Lichen Sclerosus Awareness Day

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an under-recognized inflammatory condition that most often affects the anogenital area. Though it primarily affects females, it may also present in males. Because its symptoms can be subtle, or mistaken for other conditions, many people go years without a proper diagnosis.

Early signs include fragile skin, easy tearing, bruising, blistering, and persistent itching that’s frequently misdiagnosed as a yeast infection. As LS progresses, the skin may thin, fissure, develop white patches (i.e. scarring), and anatomical changes ex. atrophy or fusion of the l***a minora (inner l***a), scarring of the cl****al hood, narrowing of the vaginal and/or urethral opening, and specific to males, inability to retract the fo****in. Chronic inflammation also increases the risk of cancer in the affected tissues, underscoring the need for early detection.

If you're experiencing ongoing itching, pain, white patches, or symptoms that don’t improve with antifungals or antibiotics, insist on a physical exam, referral to a gynecologist or dermatologist, and a biopsy. With a timely diagnosis, LS can be well-managed, and long-term complications significantly reduced.

Naturopathic medicine is an incredible complement to conventional treatment. It accelerates the reduction in inflammation, expedites healing, prevents flare-ups, and helps lower reliance on medication.

Share this post and spread awareness today!

01/05/2026

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory condition that can, if left untreated, irreversibly fuse the spine. When caught early, identifying and treating the root causes of immune imbalance can very successfully address symptoms, and help to maintain mobility. Here are a few tips:

Heat Therapy – Heat relaxes tense muscles that guard the spine, and improves blood flow. Damp heat (bath), in particular, is highly effective at reducing pain and improving mobility.

Avoid Sugar – Carbohydrates drive the inflammatory response. Eliminating fructose and glucose (natural and refined) from the diet affords the body the space to heal.

Acupuncture – Constitutional acupuncture is a technique that identifies and treats constitutional imbalances in the body's energetics. When used in conjunction with local points in the areas of discomfort, a practitioner can stimulate the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, and support overall balance, which translates to healing.

Exercise – A structured program of regular exercise will preserve spinal mobility, improve posture, strengthen supporting muscles, and reduce functional limitations. Exercise is essential!

TENS Therapy – Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation delivers gentle electrical pulses to targeted muscles. It blocks pain signals to the brain and promotes the release of endorphins, offering temporary relief from discomfort.

Incorporating these suggestions will help you move more freely, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.

Naturopathic medicine can help take your success to the next level. Committing 3-6 months to a tailored plan can lead to significant improvements in all parameters of disease activity, and a reduction in the frequency and intensity of flares.

Let's get started on your personalized treatment plan today: https://drjaclynsmithnd.com/your-first-visit/

01/01/2026

Start 2026 with habits that truly support your body, mind, and energy

1) Connect with Nature: Spend 2+ hours outside per week (30+ minute intervals for max benefit). Sunlight and nature help regulate your circadian rhythm, boost mood, and modulate the immune system.

2) Digital Detox: Set boundaries for screen time to improve focus and rest i.e. less than 2 hours per day of screens that are not educational or work-related, and no screens at least 1 hour before bed.

3) Consistent Sleep: Support energy and overall health by going to bed and waking at the same time daily.

4) Seasonal Self-Care: Adjust nutrition, hydration, and supplements with the seasons to support your body’s natural rhythms. To get started this winter, increase consumption of water and warm, cooked, spicy foods.

Start small and be consistent. Manageable changes over time lead to lasting wellness.

Happy New Years!

12/19/2025

Holiday Traditions

Every year pomegranates make their way into our stockings. Not only are they beautiful and chock-full of antioxidants...but they also take up a lot of space if you're trying to pinch a few pennies!

Pomegranates contain ellagitannins, the most potent identified polyphenol antioxidant. When consumed, the fruit is metabolized by gut bacteria into urolithins -- the compounds responsible for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular and anti-aging properties associated with pomegranates (to name a few).

The many benefits of pomegranates may also be seen in relation to autoimmunity. A 2017 study out of UCLA showed that mice consuming pomegranate extract were able to increase the microbial diversity in their gut, and decrease LPS and MCP-1 levels in their blood -- 2 markers that trigger inflammation. The result was a reduction in the rate of inflammatory bowel disease.

My Favourite Holiday Salad

Salad Ingredients
4 large handfuls arugula
Old cheddar or parmesan, shaved (to taste, exclude if dairy intolerant)
1/2 red onion, slivered
1 cup roasted pecans
Seeds from 1 pomegranate (approx. 1/2-1 cup)

Dressing Ingredients
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Zest from 1 lemon
3 large lemons, juiced
2 Tbsp of unpasteurized honey
Sea salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions
1. Combine all the dressing ingredients and whisk together
2. Place the arugula in a large bowl, pour the dressing over top and mix the salad
3. Layer on the toppings in the order listed above

Season's Eatings!

CAUTION: Do not make this recipe if your Inflammatory Bowel Disease is flaring -- the ingredients can aggravate the condition

12/11/2025

What if movement could be medicine for chronic illness?

A recent case report examined a 57-year-old patient with Type 2 diabetes and Pemphigus vulgaris (a rare autoimmune blistering skin disease) who added naturopathic medicine and yoga to their treatment of conventional medicine. After 60 days the patient experienced:

• Improved quality of life, measured by a decrease in Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores
• Better blood sugar control with reduced insulin requirements
• Sustainable lifestyle improvements, including mindful eating, yoga, and naturopathic therapies
• Weight reduction and enhanced overall energy

While the patient’s skin lesions did not significantly change, the study highlights how holistic therapies and intentional movement can complement conventional treatment, helping patients feel better, which allows them to better manage their chronic condition.

As an aside, this was a very short-term study--the skin and immune systems need approximately 6-8 weeks to turnover. It would have been interesting to see if long-term compliance (6-12 months) would have conferred any significant improvement in the pemphigus vulgaris.

Ultimately, I just want you to remember that consistent lifestyle changes (as small as they may be) can make a meaningful impact on health and well-being.

What if movement could be medicine for chronic illness?

A recent case report examined a 57-year-old patient with Type 2 diabetes and Pemphigus vulgaris (a rare autoimmune blistering skin disease) who added naturopathic medicine and yoga to their treatment of conventional medicine. After 60 days the patient experienced:

• Improved quality of life, measured by a decrease in Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores
• Better blood sugar control with reduced insulin requirements
• Sustainable lifestyle improvements, including mindful eating, yoga, and naturopathic therapies
• Weight reduction and enhanced overall energy

While the patient’s skin lesions did not significantly change, the study highlights how holistic therapies and intentional movement can complement conventional treatment, helping patients feel better, which allows them to better manage their chronic condition.

As an aside, this was a very short-term study--the skin and immune systems need approximately 6-8 weeks to turnover. It would have been interesting to see if long-term compliance (6-12 months) would have conferred any significant improvement in the pemphigus vulgaris.

Ultimately, I just want you to remember that consistent lifestyle changes (as small as they may be) can make a meaningful impact on health and well-being.

Learn more: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7329717/

12/09/2025

Gut bacteria can change—and one of them might trigger autoimmunity ↓

Researchers have discovered that a gut bacteria called Enterococcus gallinarum can actually evolve. While most gut bacteria support our health, this particular species can present in one of two distinct forms--one that is harmless, and the other that has the ability to break through the lining of the intestinal tract.

Once Enterococcus gallinarum escapes the intestines, it can travel to places like the liver and lymph nodes, where it hides from the immune system and creates low-grade inflammation. Over time, this can contribute to autoimmune conditions like lupus and autoimmune liver disease. Of particular interest is that this process can start years before the onset of symptoms, which may be one of the reasons the risk of autoimmunity increases with age.

This study also suggests that things like diet, environment, and the overall diversity of your microbiome play a significant role in protecting your health. A more diverse microbial ecosystem may crowd out organisms that have undergone pathogenic shifts (i.e. pathobionts), thereby reducing the likelihood of species like E. gallinarum escaping the gut.

These findings fuel the need for individualized treatments focused on preventing harmful microbial transformations, and strengthening the intesinal barrier. A balanced, resilient microbiome isn’t just good for digestion - it may be a key player in immune health.

Read the full article here: https://www.lupusresearch.org/researchers-discover-how-gut-bacteria-can-trigger-autoimmunity/

11/28/2025

7 Natural Ways to Help Manage Ulcerative Colitis (UC) ↓

1) Probiotics*
2) Omega-3s
3) Aloe vera
4) High-dose L-glutamine powder
5) Turmeric (curcumin)
6) Anti-inflammatory diet
7) Stress management -- critical in achieving and maintaining results

These gentle, evidence-informed tools can help calm inflammation and support healing of the gut.

*Balanced gut flora is heavily tied to recovery. However, while some individuals with colitis have too little of the right bacteria, many have too much or unbalanced bacteria. If probiotics are given to those with excess flora, they can aggravate symptoms of UC.

Always check with your Naturopathic Doctor before starting any new diet or supplements.

11/24/2025

Emerging research suggests that certain plant compounds known as polyphenols may help support the body’s immune balance in autoimmune conditions.

Found naturally in foods like green tea, berries, olive oil, turmeric, and dark chocolate, polyphenols have been shown to reduce inflammatory signals and support healthy immune function. Clinical studies have explored their potential benefits in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and ulcerative colitis — often as a complementary treatment to medical interventions.

While more research is needed, incorporating polyphenol-rich foods into your diet can be a simple, evidence-based way to help promote overall immune health.

Read the full study: “Polyphenols in the Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases” —https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6588481/

11/19/2025

What Causes Autoimmune Diseases?

Autoimmune conditions happen when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body. Genetics play a role, but lifestyle, gut health, stress, hormone imbalances, environmental toxins, and chronic inflammation are often key triggers.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I focus on uncovering the root causes so that we can support your immune system naturally and comprehensively. I practice holistic medicine, addressing the whole person, not just the symptoms. Treatment is highly personalized, taking into account your unique goals and challenges. Whether you’re looking to manage symptoms, reduce your reliance on medication, or trying to achieve remission, I’ll work with you to create a plan that aligns with your long-term health goals.

Curious about your immune health? Book a complimentary 15-minute Meet & Greet, and let’s explore your path to balance. https://drjaclynsmithnd.com/your-first-visit/

11/11/2025

Struggling with Autoimmunity? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to navigate it without support.

As both a Naturopathic Doctor and someone living with autoimmunity, I understand the fear, confusion, and frustration that often come with a diagnosis.

I help patients uncover the root causes of their symptoms and offer natural, practical support so their bodies can start to heal — from the inside out.

If you're new to Naturopathic Medicine, I invite you to book a free 15-minute consultation. It’s a chance to ask questions, feel heard, and explore whether this approach is right for your journey.

Schedule your free consult today: drjaclynsmithnd.com/your-first-visit

Your first visit to the Naturopathic clinic Your first appointment will be 90 minutes in duration and will consist of a thorough case history, urinalysis and complete physical exam that may include a pelvic and/or breast exam. If you are new to Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. Smith encourages booking a 1...