Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that gradually destroys thyroid tissue through lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that are part of your immune system.
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located at the base of your neck. It secretes hormones that affect almost every organ system, including the heart, lungs, skeleton, digestive system, and central nervous system. Controls metabolism and growth.
The main hormones secreted by the thyroid gland are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Hashimoto’s thyroiditis—sometimes called Hashimoto’s disease or Hashimoto’s disease—is one of the most common thyroid disorders in the United States and other developed countries.
Find out what the main SYMPTOMS of Hashimoto’s are
How does diet and lifestyle affect Hashimoto’s?
Research shows that diet and lifestyle changes, in addition to standard medications, can dramatically improve symptoms. An individual approach is very important because everyone reacts differently to treatment.
For many people, symptoms persist even after taking medication, and some are not given medication if they do not have changes in hormone levels.
Diet and lifestyle changes are also key to reducing the risk of other diseases, as these people also have a higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity.
The quality of life for people with Hashimoto’s can be improved by eliminating certain foods and including supplements.
Hashimoto’s – the hidden cause of fatigue
What diet to choose?
Gluten and grain free diet
Some evidence suggests that diets free of gluten and grains may benefit people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. A 6-month study involving 34 women with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis showed that a gluten-free diet reduced thyroid antibody levels, improved thyroid function and vitamin D levels, compared to a control group.
All wheat, barley and rye products should be avoided. A grain-free diet is stricter than a gluten-free diet because it bans all grains.
Avoiding dairy products
Lactose intolerance is very common among people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, so avoiding dairy products can support thyroid and digestive function.
HASHIMOTO can also be treated with natural remedies
The autoimmune protocol diet
The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is designed for people with autoimmune diseases. It removes potentially harmful foods such as grains, dairy, added sugar, coffee, legumes, eggs, alcohol, nuts, seeds, refined sugars, oils and food additives.
Note that the AIP diet is a phased elimination diet and must be prescribed and supervised by an experienced medical professional.
Focus on anti-inflammatory foods
This diet is rich in fruits and vegetables and can significantly improve symptoms. Vegetables, fruits, spices and oily fish are just a few examples of foods with powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
The article is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation or a substitute for professional consultation.
