Navigating Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) with Jess Lewis (Episode 122)

An episode that explores the intricate connections between MCAS, autism, and POTS through a neurodivergent lens and the principles of functional medicine.In Episode 122 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela are joined by Jess Lewis, a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming functional medicine advocate living with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Together, they explore the complex connection between MCAS and autism, offering validation, practical strategies, and lived experience.Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * How chronic stress, sensory overload, and a dysregulated nervous system—common in autistic people navigating a neurotypical world—can trigger MCAS symptoms.* Jess shares how exposure to mold and COVID-19 activated her mast cells and set off a cascade of symptoms, a common pattern in those with MCAS and neuroimmune dysregulation.* A deep dive into medical gaslighting, the frustration of being dismissed by healthcare providers, and why autistic individuals are more likely to be ignored or misdiagnosed.* Practical approaches for mast cell stabilization, including calming protocols, nervous system regulation, and low-histamine diets tailored for sensory-sensitive bodies.* The connection between POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and autism, and how these overlapping conditions often coexist in neurodivergent individuals.* Understanding anaphylaxis in MCAS—why even minor triggers can set off severe immune responses, and how to advocate for safety when living with unpredictable symptoms.* The value of combining functional medicine with practical support, blending science and lived experience for better care in complex, multi-layered conditions like MCAS, POTS, and autism.Jess Lewis (she/they) is a former Chief Technology Officer turned MCAS researcher, functional medicine advocate, and founder of the Mast Cell Support community. After personally reversing a severe case of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)—triggered by mold exposure and COVID—Jess now supports others through an evidence-based, neurodivergent-affirming approach rooted in functional medicine and trauma-informed care.Currently pursuing a PhD in Functional Medicine, Jess specializes in mast cell health and comorbid neuroimmune conditions, bringing a deep systems-thinking lens to both her health advocacy and her continued leadership in the tech world.🌐 Follow Jess on:Threads, Instagram, Substack → @jesslewis💻 Website → jesslewis.com🤝 Community → mastcellsupport.com“When you go to the doctor, think about it like a work meeting. Have a plan, have an agenda, have the questions laid out. Use your superpowers of deep research. Bring studies - not to be combative, but just to say, ‘I wanna collaborate on this. Here’s what I’m seeing, here’s what I’m thinking. And if your doctor doesn’t wanna listen to you, go find another doctor. Feel good about the boundaries you put in front of yourself, because you gotta advocate.” - Jess Lewis“If I can change one mind, I can change several minds… If I could change things for just a few people to have the lightbulb go off, to say, ‘I’ve got your back. I want to be the advocate for you. I want you to be the advocate for yourself.” - Jess LewisDid you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the intersection of MCAS, autism, and neurodivergent health experiences. From medical gaslighting to the overlap with POTS and nervous system dysregulation, we unpack what it means to live in a body that's constantly on high alert. We also explore the importance of functional medicine, low-histamine diets, and practical strategies for mast cell stabilization. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Resources:MCAS-Friendly Food Guide:Download Jess Lewis's curated list of low-histamine, mast-cell-friendly foods designed to support MCAS management with a neurodivergent-affirming lens.🔗 Food Guide Pharmacy – subscribepage.io/MCASfoodlist🌱 What Is Quercetin?Learn more about Quercetin, a plant flavonoid known for its natural antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing properties, often used as part of MCAS and allergy support.📚 Quercetin on WikipediaRelated Episodes:Autistic Medical Needs (Episode 14)Meat Body Maintenance (Episode 53)Autistic Medical Needs, Part 2 (Episode 108)Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe