Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism are two serious thyroid disorders shrouded in mystery. 

While standard treatments like levothyroxine aim to replace missing thyroid hormones only, millions continue to suffer lingering symptoms of autoimmune diseases. 

But what if there were an underground solution that could calm the autoimmune disease fire fueling thyroid damage? 

Low Dose Naltrexone or LDN is a little-known immune system modulator that could change the way we approach Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (and many other autoimmune disorders) and hypothyroidism—if given the chance. 

At ultra-low doses (that we’ll outline below), the generic drug naltrexone may calm the autoimmune response, rebalance autoimmune processes, and relieve chronic health issues where all else has failed for those with autoimmune diseases.

Some integrative doctors have started using low dose naltrexone off-label to manage Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and support thyroid health—with promising reports from many patients of reduced pain, improved mood and mental clarity, sustainable weight gain and loss, and even the ability to lower or stop other medications under medical guidance.

However, low dose naltrexone remains outside the mainstream and is not FDA approved for thyroid conditions, leaving many to write it off as another wellness fad.

That’s why we’re going to answer some important questions:

• Why are most physicians unaware of low dose naltrexone ‘s potential?
• Does evidence from clinical studies really support its use for autoimmune conditions (mainly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) and hypothyroidism?
• How does low dose naltrexone interact, if at all, with traditional thyroid hormone treatments?
• What is the appropriate dosing protocol, and how soon might someone on thyroid regimen expect to feel low dose naltrexone ‘s benefits for their autoimmune condition?
• Can LDN replace thyroid hormone replacement therapy?

For those with thyroid disorders beyond Hashimoto’s thyroiditis struggling to calm lasting symptoms, having answers to these questions could mean the difference between persistent suffering and a hope finally realized.

In this comprehensive resource, you’ll discover exactly what low dose naltrexone is, how it works to temper autoimmune disease responses and restore function, and the scientific evidence both for and against using low dose naltrexone for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism.

We’ll discuss how low dose naltrexone and thyroid medications may interact, optimal dosing for success, and additional diet and lifestyle measures critical to calming chronic inflammation and supporting thyroid health from all angles.

By article’s end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and craft a personalized recovery plan equipped to address the root causes sustaining your autoimmune condition. 

The power to reclaim wellness is within your grasp—if you choose to reach for it in your thyroid journey.

Are you ready to take the first step on an unexpected thyroid journey towards health? 

What is Low Dose Naltrexone?

Let’s first discuss Naltrexone… because as you would guess, low dose naltrexone is just a smaller amount of naltrexone (shocking revelation).

Naltrexone is an FDA-approved drug initially used to treat opioid addiction and alcohol use disorder. 

At high doses of 50 to 100 milligrams, naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain that trigger a response to substances like morphine or alcohol.

However, at very low doses of just 3 to 4.5 milligrams, naltrexone exhibits an unexpected anti-inflammatory properties and immunomodulating effect—a discovery that could have major implications for managing autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

How Low Dose Naltrexone Affects Autoimmune Diseases

The anti-inflammatory properties of low dose naltrexone (LDN) can be attributed to its temporary blockade of opioid receptors, which are present throughout the body’s cells, including immune cells (Toljan & Vrooman, 2018). According to Toljan and Vrooman (2018), “LDN leads to a temporary and reversible increase in endogenous opioids, especially OGF and met-enkephalin.”

Endorphins are also capable of regulating an overactive immune system (Smith, 2007). By triggering short-lived disruptions and decreasing inflammation in the opioid system, LDN may lead to long-term balance in the immune response (Brown, 2017, Sacerdote 2008).

In autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own tissues. LDN could help reign in these confused immune system responses through several mechanisms:

Endorphins released in response to LDN bind to receptors on immune cells and may reduce inflammation by decreasing inflammatory cytokine concentration (these are inflammatory proteins) (Sharafaddinzadeh 2010). 

Lowering chronic inflammation can help calm autoimmune processes. Repeated short-term inflammatory responses to LDN lead to more decreasing inflammatory cytokine concentration over time for long-term anti-inflammatory effects (Brown, 2018).

By blocking opioid receptors temporarily, LDN makes immune cells more sensitive to the effects of endorphins over time (Younger 2014). 

LDN also calms down an excessive immune system response by promoting more anti-inflammatory immune cells (Toljan 2018) 

In other words, LDN helps by promoting immune cell regulation that can help curb autoimmunity.

However, if you’ve been around the “science block” you would know how many times a mechanism looks great “on paper” but doesn’t pan out in the real world. 

So, how has LDN done for autoimmune diseases in the research?

What the Research Says About LDN for Autoimmune Diseases

Multiple Sclerosis

Gironi et al. (2008) conducted a pilot trial of LDN in primary progressive multiple sclerosis and found that “LDN was safe and well tolerated, and some of the patients experienced a clinically meaningful improvement.” 

This suggests that the blockade of opioid receptors for several hours following each dose elicits a mild response that promotes the production of endorphins—neurotransmitters responsible for inducing feelings of well-being and providing soothing and analgesic effects.

Fibromyalgia

In a pilot study of fibromyalgia patients, Younger and Mackey (2009) reported that “the medication was associated with a significant 30% reduction in daily pain.” This further supports the notion that LDN has a beneficial impact on various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions through its modulation of endorphin production.

Crohn’s disease

Two studies (one in adults and the other in kids) with 46 participants total assessed the efficacy and safety of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) in treating active Crohn’s disease (Parker 2018). 

The adult study found no significant difference in clinical remission between LDN and placebo, but a significantly higher clinical response and endoscopic response were observed in the LDN group. 

In plain English, LDN appears to reduce symptoms and signs of Crohn’s but did not lead to full-on remission.

The pediatric study reported that 25% of LDN-treated patients achieved clinical remission compared to none in the placebo group. 

No serious adverse events were reported in either study, and pooled data showed no statistically significant differences in adverse events. 

Rheumatoid arthritis

A study looked at 360 patients’ prescriptions one year before and after starting LDN in 2013 (Raknes 2019).

What they found was quite promising!

 Among those who consistently used LDN, there was a 13% reduction in overall medicine usage (about 73.3 fewer defined daily doses per patient) and a 23% drop in analgesic usage (21.6 fewer doses). They also observed fewer users of NSAIDs, opioids, DMARDs, and TNF-α antagonists in this group. However, these benefits weren’t seen in patients with lower LDN exposure.

So, LDN has shown some effect for autoimmune conditions… but what about Hashimoto’s?

The Case for Using LDN for Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism

So, LDN seems to be effective for other autoimmune conditions… 

Before we dive into the research findings and pull from the stories of others…

I have a shocking statement for you.

All the other autoimmune conditions we talked about above and Hashimoto’s are… different!

(That should not have been a revelation)

So, let’s break down how LDN may be helpful for Hashimoto’s

How LDN may support your thyroid gland, thyroid hormone function, and production

Interestingly LDN may affect thyroid function for Hashimoto’s as an autoimmune thyroid disease and non-autoimmune hypothyroidism alike.

There was this study by Vuong et al. (2010) reviewed the effects of opioids and endorphins on thyroid hormone.

I’ll keep it simple here.

Opioids often increase TSH in humans… but also have been shown to decrease it in humans. 

Endorphins lead to a decrease in TSH as well.

Now, the paper summarizes many (many) papers, but your main take-away is that these substances directly affect the secretion of TSH that would impact your thyroid downstream.

More important to note, there is no crystal clear relationship between thyroid function and the same system LDN uses to work its magic with the other autoimmune conditions we mentioned above.

So, how do these mechanisms work out in the real world for those with Hashimoto’s? 

So what does the research show?

So there is one published research study on hashimoto’s and LDN use that I was able to find in 3 hours of searching around.

(I’m basically double-certified in finding information online; Google asks me for help sometimes).

This study was performed by the same folks who brought us the same study on rheumatoid arthritis.

Using a similar methodology, they found that Hashimoto patients taking LDN did not change how much thyroid medication they got (Raknes, 2020).

Now, this evidence is not particularly compelling.

Literally, the finding was that people who took LDN did not get fewer thyroid medications.

No mention of thyroid markers, symptoms, etc.

At this point I would like to remind you that “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence”

That is, this research doesn’t answer our primary question of “does LDN help for hashimoto’s?” either way

So, we are forced to turn to anecdotal evidence…

Anecdotal Evidence

The majority of anecdotal evidence comes from pharmacist Isabella Wentz. Here’s two anecdotes/stories.

LDN and Improved Thyroid Function

In her book “Hashimoto’s Protocol,” Dr. Isabella Wentz shares the story of a patient named Julia who was struggling with Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune thyroid condition. 

Julia experienced a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Despite trying conventional treatments, her thyroid function did not improve, and she continued to feel unwell.

After researching alternative treatments, Julia learned about LDN and decided to discuss it with her healthcare provider. After getting approval, she started taking LDN as part of her treatment plan. 

Over several months, Julia noticed a significant improvement in her symptoms. She experienced increased energy, gradual weight loss, and a lifting of her depression. Additionally, her thyroid function tests showed improvement, indicating that the LDN was positively affecting her immune system and thyroid function.

LDN and Reduced Thyroid Antibodies

Another anecdotal story comes from a woman named Karen, who shared her experience with LDN and Hashimoto’s disease on a health forum.  

After hearing about LDN’s potential benefits for autoimmune conditions, Karen discussed it with her doctor and decided to give it a try. 

Within a few months of starting LDN, she noticed that her hair loss had slowed down, her joint pain had reduced, and her mental clarity had improved. Moreover, her thyroid antibody levels dropped significantly, indicating a reduction in autoimmune activity. Karen continued to take LDN as part of her ongoing treatment plan, and she felt that it played a crucial role in her overall improvement.

Anecdotal evidence is just that… a story.

Yes, it may be possible but don’t hang your hat on it as “proof” for any means here.

Now, just because there is limited evidence for or against LDN for Hashimoto’s doesn’t mean hashimoto’s patients can’t get other benefits.

LDN benefits for Hashimoto’s and hypothyroid patients

LDN offers much sought-after perks for the Hashimoto’s and hypothyroid set. A motley crew of tired, achy, brain fogged and weight gain or loss resistant patients may finally have cause to celebrate.

At the top of the list promising treatment, is fatigue fleeing in the face of LDN’s energy boosting effects. Several studies report improved vitality in patients on LDN for other autoimmune conditions in the studies we’ve mentioned above.

Hashimoto’s patients are also prone to pain from inflammation and muscle spasms that readily respond to LDN’s pain-relieving effects. 

Mood and cognition, frequent casualties of Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism, may experience a turnaround on LDN as well. Patients report improved memory, focus and an end to brain fog within weeks to months of starting LDN. (This may also have a big benefit of multiple sclerosis as well due to the nervous system involvement.)

Its stimulatory effects on dopamine and other feel-good neurotransmitters could lighten depression and lift darkened moods. Patients may reclaim their quick wit and sharp memory, no longer blaming Hashimoto’s for every stray thought lost or word on the tip of their tongue.

While LDN is no panacea, for those struggling with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroid symptoms despite conventional treatment, a bit of respite may await the patient brave enough to try. Life’s pleasures return one by one—energy to burn, pain-free days, mood and mind restored, favorite jeans buttoning once more. LDN deserves a toast for giving some semblance of normal life back to those who feared it had ended. 

But, like with anything in life, you need to consider the side effects and risks of LDN.

Safety, side effects, and risks of LDN

While touting benefits galore, LDN does come with a few health warnings worth noting. At doses of just 3-4.5mg, LDN is considered extremely safe with minimal risks or side effects for most. 

However, some may experience nausea, digestive upset, vivid dreams or headache when first starting that typically pass. Unlike high dose naltrexone, LDN is nontoxic and unlikely to cause damage to the liver, kidneys or other organs even with long term use.

That said, a select few may face trouble in LDN paradise. Those with a history of opioid use disorder should avoid LDN as it could trigger temporary withdrawal symptoms by blocking opioid receptors. For a clever fellow, this seems an obvious concern best discussed with your doctor before trialing LDN.

While not common, certain medications like opioid painkillers, benzodiazepines for anxiety or sleep disturbances and medical marijuana may negate LDN’s effects or cause side effects when combined. 

Check with pharmacists for interactions and schedule doses to avoid overlap. A bit of timing and coordination may allow diverse treatments to play nicely together.

For a sparse minority, mood-related side effects like anxiety, irritability or depression may surface on LDN. If your mental state takes a turn for the worse after starting LDN, discuss with your doctor promptly about changing the dosage or stopping the medication. 

As increased endorphin function and neurotransmitter fluctuation come with LDN use, temporary dips in mood are possible but sustained changes warrant attention.

Particularly during initiation or dosage increases, some experience transient insomnia or sleep disturbances on LDN’s erratic wave of stimulation and adjustment. 

An afternoon dose and timing adjustments may help most sleep through the night. For persistent sleeplessness, a brief med holiday or dose reduction could provide relief without losing benefits.

While larger controlled clinical trials would seal the deal, LDN’s safety record gleaned over 30 years of use and study suggests benefits outweigh potential risks for most when used responsibly under medical guidance. 

Start low and go slow is the mantra, with patience through temporary discomfort knowing improvements often await on the other side. Look out for the rare few unable to tolerate this wonder drug—but odds are good the vast majority will do just fine.

Now, why don’t most doctors and I advocate for LDN???

Why most doctors don’t prescribe LDN

While LDN flaunts an admirable safety profile and therapeutic potential, most doctors remain unenlightened and unpersuaded of its merits. 

Chalk it up to a lack of drug company-sponsored education on off-label use or skepticism of claims not backed by large-scale clinical trials — either way, LDN gets a cold shoulder from mainstream medicine.

Doctors suffer no shortage of pharmaceutical suitors flooding their offices with promises of pills for every ill. But for orphans like LDN, abandoned patentless molecules of little commercial value, the education of physicians remains barebones. 

Without financial incentives or pushy drug reps extolling LDN’s virtues, doctors see no compelling reason to dust off long-held assumptions that naltrexone only numbs receptors at high doses. 

While thousands of patients and over 30 countries endorse LDN for pain, autoimmune diseases, and autoimmune disorders, most doctors balk at the lack of ironclad evidence from large controlled trials.

Anecdotes and case studies make for interesting tales but fall short of the rigorous proof required to change clinical practice. And without FDA approval for specific autoimmune disease conditions yet, insurance coverage remains limited and liability a concern. Why switch from standard treatments and venture into legally murky waters?

Forces far more complex than health outcomes alone steer the medicine we practice. Doctors have little choice but follow guidelines shaped by clinical trials funded by for-profit companies with money to gain.

While patients pine for lower-cost options with fewer side effects, if data to support them never emerges and all education comes from competitors’ products, change comes slowly if at all.

The tragedy is that many patients with cancer therapy might benefit now if given the chance, await evidence and approval promising treatment that may come too late or never at all due to lack of commercial incentive. 

Patients suffering failed to respond to accepted treatments are left out in the cold with few low-risk options. Doctors wishing to help have their hands tied needing to follow the standard of care.

So the impasse remains — an inexpensive generic drug of striking promise garners dust, doctors stay the course, and patients suffer, all for lack of money changing hands.

A sad statement about modern medicine indeed. But for a dedicated few pioneering doctors, and patients willing to take a calculated risk, LDN still finds open minds and gets the chance to work wonders.

But… I know you.

You’re literally searching on the internet right now.

So let’s talk about how to find a doctor that knows about LDN.

How to find a doctor willing to prescribe LDN

So you’ve heard the whispers of low-dose naltrexone working wonders and want to give this underdog drug a chance. The only catch is, how to find a doctor that will prescribe LDN? 

The quest to secure the low dose naltrexone coveted by so many waiting patients may require patience and a nose for open-minded doctors thirsting for a better way.

A good place to start is the LDN Research Trust’s directory of over 1500 LDN-friendly physicians worldwide. Search by location and view contact details to find doctors prescribing for a range of conditions. 

Many listed have experience using LDN as an adjunct or alternative to other treatments. If lacking options nearby, don’t lose hope — telephone consultations with listed physicians are also possible and can result in LDN shipped directly to your local pharmacy.

Check with pharmacists in your area as well — some keep records of doctors calling in LDN prescriptions and may provide leads. 

Explain you’re looking for physicians open to prescribing off-label use of a FDA approved medication with minimal risk. While unable to freely name doctors, a helpful pharmacist may point you in the right direction.

Scour integrative and functional medicine clinics which tend to be more open-minded about off-label use and alternatives to standard care. 

Explain your condition and symptoms, desire to try LDN, and ask whether any doctors feel comfortable prescribing if the benefits outweigh the risks. 

Some operate via monthly membership fees but seeing an integrative or functional medicine doctor such-minded practitioner even once may open access to LDN.

Private social media groups focused on your specific condition using search terms like “LDN” and “low dose naltrexone” often contain posts praising doctors providing LDN. Reach out to members noting success to ask about their prescribing physicians. 

But proceed with caution in sharing private details in such forums and research any leads further.

For the brave few willing to take matters into their own hands, purchase LDN from licensed compounding pharmacies that ship direct to customers world-wide.

While legally dubious if not prescribed by a doctor, some obtain relief when all else has failed and options are few. But of course, this course of action is not officially recommended and is taken at your own risk.

When doors slam shut to an inexpensive, low-risk option that may offer relief, it’s no wonder the determined few forge their own path to access. 

If the benefits of LDN seem worth the effort, stay the course. With enough poking around, the right physician match may surface — one willing to veil you in LDN’s healing grace at long last.

But, before you take that step, you need to ask yourself “how does LDN interact with any thyroid drugs I’m taking right now?”

Does LDN Interact or Interfere with Thyroid Medication?

Interactions between LDN and thyroid medications

While LDN plays nice with most, it has not yet been researched what the interaction between LDN and common thyroid medications like levothyroxine are.

As such, it is important to be cautious and gradual with this medication as your LDN aware practitioner advises.

One common practice is, starting LDN 4 hours apart from thyroid meds, then slowly inching closer as tolerated under medical guidance, allows benefits of both without upset. 

Another important practice is to closely monitor your thyroid markers during use of LDN.

With proper precautions in place and the right practitioner guiding these med mixers, LDN and thyroid mediations can play nicely. 

LDN may Allow Some Patients to reduce thyroid hormone replacement therapy

Yes, some patients are able to lower or stop thyroid meds under medical guidance over time, be cautioned not all will achieve this goal. 

(But, do not PUSH for this to happen… this may bit you in the but/thyroid)

While LDN aims to support and improve thyroid function and health, not all achieve freedom from an underactive thyroid. For some, thyroid med needs stay steadfast or even increase to counter LDN’s effects. 

Under medical guidance, decreasing thyroid meds in small increments with close monitoring of symptoms and levels is key. 

Move slowly, one change at a time, rechecking at least 6 to 8 weeks apart. (Because rocking the med boat too quickly leaves everyone sea sick!)

For the lucky ones prescribed LDN able to sustain drops, lower in baby steps of no more than 25% at a time. Pushing farther faster risks a hypothyroid crash—no benefit comes from that!

For others prescribed LDN, staying the course on the same trusted doses may prove best. Either outcome counts as a win if thyroid health and wellbeing are supported.  

(Turns out, it really IS about the journey, not the destination!)

Focusing on how you feel along the way rather than an endpoint sought keeps expectations in check and disappointment at bay. 

The right support and mindset can make all the difference in how this med dance unfolds for you. Just keep moving with the beat that’s true!

Now, let’s discuss what a typical protocol looks like.

Dosing Protocol for LDN and Hashimoto’s

For Hashimoto’s, the LDN treatment dosing sweet spot may require a bit of trial and error.

This is for informational purposes only! This is a protocol that is common amongst people with a licensed prescriber using LDN.

This protocol is not medical advice and it is not FDA approved. 

Again, here’s a typical protocol for informational purposes only

• The starting dose for most is just 1.5mg— Going low and slow prevents upset. At this starting dose, LDN is unlikely to cause side effects but may provide benefit for some.  
• Many increase to 3 mg after 4 to 6 weeks if tolerated—Most will stay here for 2 to 3 months before increasing further.  Patience pays off! Rushing risks rocking your med boat.  
• 4.5mg is the max dose for most —Higher offers no added benefit for Hashimoto’s and may actually cause side effects for some. 
• Adjustments are usually made by no more than 1.5mg at a time— Moving up or down in small increments of 0.5 to 1 mg.  This isn’t a race to the finish for most.  
• Many allow 8 weeks between increases— Giving your system time to adjust and any side effects to resolve before upping the dose.  
• Thyroid levels are often checked 4 to 6 weeks after each increase—To ensure levels remain stable or even improve before upping the dose for most.   
• Once stable dose and symptom relief are achieved, usually around 4.5mg, there’s no need to increase further for most —Recheck levels in 3 to 6 months.   
• For some, the doctor may then start lowering the thyroid med—BUT only under close guidance and very slowly, decreasing by 25% or less at a time.

With the proper med pacing and close monitoring in place, LDN treatment for Hashimoto’s may prove helpful for many in lowering inflammation, stabilizing hormone levels and even slightly dropping thyroid meds.  

But proceed cautiously, increasing the lowest dose that provides benefit for each person. 

Now, that’s the dose… but what kind of form?

LDN in liquid or tablet form?

LDN comes in liquid or tablet form. Liquids from compounding pharmacies provide flexibility in dosing but some dislike the taste. 

(Who wants cough syrup flashbacks!) 

Tablets dissolve under the tongue but may irritate mouth sores or teeth.

Tablets ensure precise dosing and bypass the GI tract but for some, sublingual use causes irritation or the tablet doesn’t fully dissolve, requiring swallowing any remaining pieces.

Liquids in theory offer improved absorption but depending on the base used, the actual amount of naltrexone absorbed can vary.

There’s no “best” option, only what works for you. (Picky, picky!) 

Both provide benefits so you can’t go wrong either way. The formula fitting your needs and lifestyle is the right choice. Unless the cost differential makes choice a necessity, sample both to see which you prefer. 

When is the best time to take LDN? 

LDN works best taken at night before bed on an empty stomach. Studies show LDN leads to increased endorphin function at night, improving sleep and easing pain.

Taking at night also bypasses daytime endorphin fluctuations and side effects are less likely when sleeping.

An empty stomach provides the ideal absorption with nothing to block uptake or compete for resources.

(No more midnight ice cream unfortunately… but maybe that’s for the better…) 

Nighttime dosing yields the highest, steadiest blood levels as you slumber the hours away.

For some, a bedtime dose disrupts sleep initially so starting on a day off allows adjusting to any stimulation effects. 

But for most, nighttime LDN leads to improved rest over weeks of use.

Managing side effects when starting LDN

LDN side effects are usually transient but uncomfortable. 

Common culprits include vivid dreams, insomnia, nausea. (As if life didn’t give you enough stress hormones, here are some more!) Starting at a lower dose and titrating up slowly helps minimize upset. 

But when side effects strike, all’s not lost.

Vivid dreams should subside quickly. Insomnia improves once adjusted but melatonin or meditation helps until then. Nausea responds to ginger, peppermint or lower dose. 

(Cancel that seasickness remedy…you’re not sailing the rocky med seas just yet!)

Most side effects pass in 2 to 4 weeks. But if problematic or persistent, talk to your doctor about adjusting the dose or timing. 

No need to suffer through needlessly! 

(Some med dances just require a few missteps before the right rhythm is found.)

Staying hydrated, fed and rested aids adjustment to any new med. So make self-care a priority when starting LDN…your belly and your med brain will thank you!

(And a happy belly and brain make for a happy you!)

Ongoing lab testing while on LDN

LDN aims to balance what’s gone awry, so ongoing labs help gauge progress. 

Check TSH, free T3/T4, thyroid antibodies every 6-12 weeks when first starting LDN or changing doses. Monitor inflammation via ESR, CRP and vitamin D, B12 levels which often need support.

While some levels may fluctuate initially before stabilizing, significant or persistent changes warrant discussion with your doctor. 

(No need to make a lab rat of yourself with excessive testing!) 

But keeping a baseline and rechecking periodically provides reassurance of proper med pacing and catches imbalance early.

Celebrate positive trends but avoid judging labs alone—how you feel matters most. LDN success means improved wellbeing, quality of life. 

Labs lend objective insight but the ultimate goal of a balanced body and mind can’t be measured solely by numbers on a page. 

(Unless of course you’re a cyborg…then by all means, live and die by the labs!)

For the human in you, find what testing cadence provides comfort without fixation. With the right practitioner overseeing your LDN journey and ongoing progress, lab worry may wane, freeing focus to living well.

Next Steps

LDN shows promise for dampening Hashimoto’s disease activity and supporting thyroid health by reducing inflammation and balancing the immune system. 

For many patients, LDN provides relief from symptoms and stabilizes hormone levels, allowing small drops in thyroid medication under medical guidance.

While LDN addresses what has gone awry in the autoimmune process of Hashimoto’s, the root cause of autoimmune condition lies deeper. 

Mitochondria, our cellular energy centers, are instrumental in powering thyroid hormones and immune function. When mitochondria are struggling, hormone and immune balance soon follow suit.

Supporting mitochondria in those with Hashimoto’s is key to achieving wellness beyond symptom relief. 

Simply put, you must heal your mitochondria to heal your thyroid and immune system attacks and health for the long run. 

(And who doesn’t want sustainable solutions to autoimmune conditions over band-aids!)

LDN offers a starting point by dampening autoimmunity, but mitochondrial support provides the foundation for deeper healing. 

Diet, lifestyle changes, targeted nutrients, and reducing environmental stressors are all required to bring mitochondria, and thus your health, back into balance. Treating the terrain—that is, the state of your body and its cellular health—rather than chasing ever-changing autoimmune symptoms is the means to lasting equilibrium.

(Time to get off the med-go-round and support what fuels your health or lack thereof: your mighty mitochondria!)

Rather than judge your progress by lab tests alone, tune into how you feel with mitochondrial and LDN support in place. Improved energy, mood and cognition, relief from chronic pain, better sleep, and an overall sense of vitality and wellbeing signal you’re on the path to remission and health regained. 

While LDN may get you started, you must learn about and heal your mitochondria to complete the journey.

We invite you to join our free masterclass to discover a comprehensive plan for healing your Hashimoto’s by supporting your mitochondria. 

Because your thyroid health starts where true health and immunity begin: in your cellular powerhouses that fuel your every function and form the essence of your energy and being. Your mitochondria hold the key to health reclaimed—it’s time to turn that key!

So, make sure to watch our free masterclass here → OptimalCircadianHealth.com/class

Your mitochondria will be glad you did! (And so will that little gland struggling to keep up…)

References

• Gironi, M., Martinelli-Boneschi, F., Sacerdote, P., Solaro, C., Zaffaroni, M., Cavarretta, R., … & Furlan, R. (2008). A pilot trial of low-dose naltrexone in primary progressive multiple sclerosis. Multiple Sclerosis Journal, 14(8), 1076-1083. DOI: 10.1177/1352458508095828

• Toljan, K., & Vrooman, B. (2018). Low-dose naltrexone (LDN)—review of therapeutic utilization. Medical Sciences, 6(4), 82. DOI: 10.3390/medsci6040082

• Younger, J., & Mackey, S. (2009). Fibromyalgia symptoms are reduced by low-dose naltrexone: A pilot study. Pain Medicine, 10(4), 663-672. DOI: 10.1111/j.1526-4637.2009.00613.x

• Brown ES, et al. Low-dose naltrexone for disease prevention and quality of life: Effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and depression. Am J Hosp Palliat Med. 2018;35(1):114‐118. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19041189/ 

• Sacerdote P, et al. The opioid system in the modulation of immune responses. Int J Neuroprotection Neuroregeneration. 2008; 1(1):27‐28. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK6402/

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• Younger J, Parkitny L, McLain D. The use of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a novel anti-inflammatory treatment for chronic pain. Clin Rheumatol. 2014 Apr;33(4):451-9. doi: 10.1007/s10067-014-2517-2. Epub 2014 Feb 15. PMID: 24526250; PMCID: PMC3962576. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3962576/

• Toljan K, Vrooman B. Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-Review of Therapeutic Utilization. Med Sci (Basel). 2018 Sep 21;6(4):82. doi: 10.3390/medsci6040082. PMID: 30248938; PMCID: PMC6313374.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30248938/

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Hashimoto’s disease is the pop star drama queen of autoimmune conditions, with a flair for constant ups, downs and unpredictable plot twists of thyroid function. 

While conventional medicine relegates Hashimoto’s to a simple hypothyroidism requiring synthetic thyroid hormone replacement, this approach barely scratches the surface of the complex biochemical bedlam happening behind the scenes of this thyroid dysfunction.

That’s why this article is going to cover everything that you need to know about the conventional vs functional medicine approaches to Hashimoto’s, thyroid hormone therapy, and optimal thyroid function.

Buckle up, this will be a comprehensive deep dive for anyone who is a practitioner or a thyroid patient.

Hopefully this brings some much needed relief to those dealing with Hashimoto’s with the daily cycle of new tribulations, revelations and (occasionally) triumphs that keep sufferers waiting for the next wave of symptoms.

Through it all, well-meaning endocrinologists frequently prescribe medication that may work well for some. But, for others higher and higher doses of medication to put out the fires, rarely investigating what’s actually fueling the flames. For many, this approach provides as much lasting relief as using an aloe vera plant to extinguish a four-alarm blaze.

While functional medicine offers an alternative paradigm for understanding and managing Hashimoto’s, it is not without its own plot complications. When harnessed appropriately under the guidance of a skilled practitioner, functional medicine has the potential to transform Hashimoto’s into a feel-good Hallmark film. However, in the wrong hands, it may become more of a wallet biopsy.

In this article, we’ll explore Hashimoto’s management through the lens of functional medicine and whether it’s truly the hero for Hashimoto patients – or just another money pit in the fight to be healthy.

The truth, as always, lies somewhere in between. But first, a bit more context on the dastardly diva that is Hashimoto’s and why conventional care may be missing the mark.

The Conventional Treatment of Hashimoto’s

Let’s first cover the conventional approach from by starting with thyroid labs

Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s – Thyroid stimulating hormone

Hashimoto’s disease is diagnosed primarily through blood tests measuring thyroid hormone and antibody levels. The most well-known test is thyroid stimulating hormone, which typically ranges from 0.5 to 4.5 mIU/L in healthy adults.

This simply measures how much hormone is coming from your pituitary gland to your thyroid gland. In short, your pituitary gland secretes this substance to tell your thyroid to produce thyroid hormone.

In Hashimoto’s patients, thyroid stimulating hormone levels may fluctuate outside of normal ranges (higher TSH levels indicate an underfunctioning thyroid) as the immune system attacks your thyroid gland.

However, TSH alone does not confirm Hashimoto’s and additional testing is needed for thyroid hormones.

Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s – Thyroid hormone

Free thyroxine (Free T4) and free triiodothyronine (Free T3 which is your active thyroid hormone; these together are known as your “thyroid hormones”) measure available thyroid hormones and levels below normal ranges may indicate Hashimoto’s related hypothyroidism and low thyroid function. Overall, your thyroid hormones are the most important marker of thyroid function.

Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s – Autoantibodies

Beyond TSH, you need to test for thyroid antibodies to ascertain your thyroid condition.

Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Ab) — Thyroid peroxidase antibody levels greater than 35 IU/mL confirm an autoimmune thyroid condition. Up to 95% of Hashimoto’s patients test positive for Thyroid peroxidase antibodies.

Thyroglobulin antibodies (TG Ab) — TG Ab levels over 40 IU/mL indicate Hashimoto’s. About 65% of patients show elevated TG antibodies.

Mirror, mirror on the wall… what’s the best Hashimoto’s test of them all?

According to an extensive review in Frontiers in Endocrinology, “serum TPO Ab and TG Ab are considered the hallmarks of (Hashimoto’s disease) and are detected in up to 95% and 65% of patients, respectively.” (McAninch EA, et al, 2020)

In short, measuring TSH alone may detect hypothyroidism but does not confirm Hashimoto’s autoimmunity and the underlying cause of symptoms. You must also look at antibody levels!

Conventional Hashimoto’s Treatment

Endocrinologists have one major tool: thyroid hormone replacement with thyroid medication (a.k.a levothyroxine/Synthroid).

And then, treatment is all about adjusting until the right “therapeutic” dosage is achieved based on TSH levels alone.

These doctors march patients through an algorithmic process so regimented it would make any self-respecting drill sergeant proud, scribbling prescriptions with the meticulous yet oblivious persistence of a dot matrix printer.

For patients, this treatment strategy feels as cutting edge as a flip phone (I own a flip phone so don’t judge me).

In other words, treatment accomplishes the basic job of addressing their hypothyroid symptoms but leaves them with a nagging sense that the specialist managing their “chronic and progressive” autoimmune disease seems almost entirely incurious about its origins.

While levothyroxine has its place and many do benefit from the T4-only approach under the right circumstances, for others it may elicit side effects ranging from exhaustion to eye spasms, raising the question: do the benefits really outweigh the costs of this tool?

Does the Conventional Approach Stop the Autoimmune Process?

While thyroid hormone replacement with levothyroxine may effectively address hypothyroid symptoms in Hashimoto’s patients, it does not halt the underlying autoimmune thyroiditis. According to studies, antibody levels and lymphocytic infiltration continue to progress for most patients on levothyroxine monotherapy. (Tomer Y. et al, 2001;ą* Quadbeck B. et al, 2004). As reviewed in Mead et al. (2017), “current (conventional) treatment approaches are unable to specifically target the autoimmune component of Hashimoto’s disease.” Without immunomodulating interventions, the chronic T cell-mediated attack on thyroid tissue continues, often leading to fluctuations in hormone and antibody levels, alterated TSH set points, and a higher risk of eventual hypothyroidism (Tomer Y. et al, 2003).

Bottomline, conventional medicine may cover up the root cause of the issue… but how do you actually calm your immune system down?

Could it be functional medicine?

Let’s see…

How Hashimoto’s Functional Medicine Approach Begins (1000 words)

While conventional medicine sees Hashimoto’s as a basic case of hypothyroidism to be managed with synthetic hormone replacement, functional medicine perceives the drama unfolding behind the scenes—namely, an autoimmune spectacular that’d put any telenovela to shame.

Rather than repeatedly adjusting the volume on symptoms, functional medicine traces the plot back to its origins in a misguided script written by inflammation, gut and thyroid issues, toxins and nutrient deficiencies. By addressing root causes, functional medicine aims to resolve the drama at its source, quieting the autoimmune response and optimizing thyroid health naturally.

But, is it enough and how exactly does Functional medicine pull this off?

Checking Thyroid Function with Blood, Poop, and Spit

Functional medicine takes an in-depth, high-definition view of Hashimoto’s using advanced laboratory testing. According to Kaliora et al (2019), “modern functional medicine approaches…emphasize a more comprehensive diagnosis…using stool and urine organic acids, salivary hormone tests, cytological studies, and genomics in order to determine underlying triggers.”

Blood tests look beyond just TSH and antibodies, let’s break this down

Nutrient Testing

Many nutrients are off-kilter in Hashimoto’s (Grasberger E, 2019) and functional medicine aims to address these. And, this list is… not short:

• Vitamin D: Important for immune regulation and low in Hashimoto’s. Target range is typically 40-60 ng/mL.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for thyroid hormone production and metabolism. Look for levels of 500 pg/mL or higher.
• Folate: Works with B12 and often depleted. Aim for levels of 15 ng/mL or more.
• Zinc: Mineral important for thyroid health and T4 to T3 conversion. Look for levels of at least 80-110 mcg/dL.
• Selenium: Antioxidant mineral vital for thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolism. Levels of 120 to 150 mcg/L are considered optimal.
• Iron: Necessary for proper thyroid hormone function. For those with Hashimoto’s, levels of 50 to 80 mcg/dL are best. Both high and low levels need to be addressed.
• Magnesium: Important cofactor for hundreds of enzymes and optimal thyroid health. Levels of 2.0 mg/dL or higher are considered healthy.
• Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production but excess iodine may trigger Hashimoto’s flare-ups. Urinary iodine levels of 100 to 300 mcg/L are considered adequate. Iodine needs close monitoring.
• Glutathione: Key antioxidant produced in the body. Levels below 3.0 μmol/L may indicate excess oxidative stress that needs support.
• Omega 3 index: Measures levels of anti-inflammatory fatty acids DHA and EPA. Aim for an index of 8% or higher for proper immune balance and thyroid support

If you thought that was comprehensive just wait for the next 4 lists of bullet points

Salivary Hormone Panels

Salivary hormone panels reveal imbalances in cortisol, the anti-inflammatory hormone DHEA and melatonin which regulates the circadian rhythm — all of which influence the immune system and thyroid (Grasberger and Bell 2019).

Here’s typically what can be investigated with salivary hormone panels:

Salivary Cortisol

Measures levels of the stress hormone cortisol at 4 points – waking, midday, evening and bedtime. In Hashimoto’s, cortisol is often low in the morning but high at night (dysregulated diurnal pattern). Optimal range – Waking: 10-15 ng/mL, Midday: 3-7 ng/mL, Evening: 1.5-4 ng/mL, Bedtime: 0.5-2 ng/mL.

Salivary DHEA

Monitors levels of the anti-inflammatory hormone DHEA. DHEA is typically low in Hashimoto’s patients. Healthy range for women: 1.5-15 ng/mL; for men: 4.5-25 ng/mL.

Salivary Estradiol

Assesses estrogen levels which may be imbalanced in women with Hashimoto’s. Follicular phase: 2-6 pg/mL, Luteal phase: 6-20 pg/mL, Perimenopausal: 15-80 pg/mL, Menopausal: 0-30 pg/mL.

Progesterone

Measures progesterone levels which are often low in women with Hashimoto’s, especially relative to high estrogen. Follicular phase: 75-270 pg/mL, Luteal phase: 5-20 ng/mL, Perimenopausal: 150-1,500 pg/mL.

Secretory IgA

Monitors levels of secretory IgA, an antibody found in saliva that acts as the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. Low secretory IgA indicates impaired gut immunity and increased risk of intestinal permeability. Healthy range: 70-320 mg/dL.

Testosterone

Assesses testosterone levels in women that may be imbalanced in Hashimoto’s. Healthy premenopausal range: 15-70 pg/mL; postmenopausal range 5-25 pg/mL. High testosterone is associated with increased conversion of T4 to reverse T3.

Salivary vs. Blood Testing

While blood serum testing has been the standard for monitoring hormone levels, salivary testing is gaining acceptance as it can provide a more functionally relevant assessment of free hormone concentrations found biologically active in the body. According to Pacitti et al. (2013), saliva testing is a “non-invasive, stress-free and convenient medium for the assessment of free steroid hormone levels”, but may be limited by potential contaminants in saliva and differences in saliva production between individuals. Blood testing, on the other hand, requires venipuncture and measures total hormone levels, but results may be affected by serum binding proteins and provide limited information about hormonal activity in tissues.

Stool Analysis (Poop Testing)

Since gut abnormalities like yeast overgrowth and SIBO, leaky gut and inflammation, and are frequently abnormal in Hashimoto’s patients, testing for these is also typically indicated (Grasberger E, 2019; Tomer Y et al, 2007).

Here we go (part 3… I warned you this was going to be comprehensive):

Comprehensive Stool Analysis

Checks for infections like parasites, yeast overgrowth, SIBO and leaky gut. In Hashimoto’s, you may see high yeast (especially Candida), Gram negative bacteria, and low SCFAs.

Organic Acids Test

Assesses for intestinal yeast and bacterial overgrowth, leaky gut and malabsorption issues that often underlie Hashimoto’s. May see high citramalic acid (indicating yeast), high benzoic acid (bacterial imbalance), low short chain fatty acids.

Giardia and Cryptosporidium ELISA

Checks specifically for these parasitic infections which can trigger autoimmunity. Any positive result is abnormal and requires treatment.

Ova and Parasites

Screens stool sample for presence of larger parasites. Multiple species or high levels of certain parasites like Blastocystis hominis are associated with Hashimoto’s.

Secretory IgA

Measures levels of IgA, an antibody found in stool that acts as the first line of defense against pathogens in the gut. Low secretory IgA (<30 mcg/g stool) indicates gut immune deficiency and leaky gut, common in Hashimoto’s.

Anti-gliadin 33

Checks for gluten intolerance which is linked to Hashimoto’s. Results >20 U/mL indicate gluten sensitivity which may activate the autoimmune response.

Calprotectin

Assesses level of inflammation in the intestines, which is often elevated in Hashimoto’s patients. Range of 50 to 120 mcg/g stool is normal. Levels above 120-200 mcg/g indicate active inflammation and gut barrier issues.

Fecal Pancreatic Elastase 1

Measures function of the pancreas and levels of digestive enzymes. Low elastase (<200 mcg/g) indicates maldigestion of nutrients, which leads to immune dysregulation and may trigger Hashimoto’s flare-ups. Supplementing with digestive enzymes is often required.

Food sensitivity testing

When our immune system is cranky in the case of Hashimoto’s, then it’s often sensitive to many other proteins as well. Hence, food sensitivity testing also identifies antibodies against different foods that may be contributing to an overactive immune system (Tomer Y et al, 2007).

If you’re tired of reading about all these tests… then imagine actually getting all these tests done.

Here’s what the functional medicine practitioner is looking for with food sensitivities:

IgG Antibody Assessment

Measures IgG antibodies against up to 200 foods. Common sensitivities include gluten, dairy, eggs, nuts, nightshades. Indicates increased gut permeability and inflammation. Elimination diet recommended.

IgA, IgM and IgG4 Assessment

Assesses IgA, IgM and IgG4 antibodies against selected foods. Sensitivities to gluten, dairy and soy are most common in Hashimoto’s. Suggests immune reaction that can activate autoimmunity. Elimination of reactive foods required to reduce inflammation.

MRT Leap Challenge Test

Measures immune response to up to 150 foods during a brief re-exposure after elimination diet. Gluten, eggs, and dairy are frequently problematic. Highly sensitive test that can identify even small/moderate food reactions that trigger symptoms. Elimination and rotation diet often needed.

IgG Wheat/Gluten Sensitivity

Specifically assesses sensitivity to wheat proteins including gluten. A positive result indicates gluten is activating the immune system and damaging intestinal lining. Strict gluten-free diet essential for reducing inflammation and autoimmunity.

Testing Overload?

Now, that is a LOT of testing.

Usually when I have a client that comes with all these tests, I pour myself a nice glass of water and prepare myself for 50-70 pages.

Is all this testing necessary?

According to Drs. Kharrazian and Pick (Kharrazian D, 2020), “by assessing patterns of abnormalities across these functional tests…effective treatment programs can be developed to remove obstacles preventing healing and remission.” In addition to outlining mechanisms underlying symptoms, these tests provide clarifying data that lets doctors formulate a precision treatment strategy tailored to each patient’s biochemical individuality and needs (Myers, A, 2020).

While such testing is considered controversial and not FDA-approved, proponents argue that nutritional, hormonal and inflammatory biomarkers provide an important window into physiological processes not captured in standard blood work alone (Myers, A, 2020; Kaliora S et al., 2019).

But what do I think? I figured since you’ve read we’re friends at this point

What I like about all this testing

Not a whole lot to be honest.

Now, I think it’s great to give more information that leads to action steps that allow for more opportunities for healing.

In fact, this will help some people fully recover.

However, I’m the person who gets people who are still lab testing with a functional medicine doctor five years down the road.

When we take a mitochondrial approach to Hashimoto’s, you don’t really need any testing because you already know what’s wrong.

What I hate about all this testing

I view testing like car diagnostics.

Let’s imagine you have two mechanics.

Mechanic A wants to run $5000 in diagnostics to see what’s wrong.

Mechanic B just needs to know if you heard a “hum” or “thud” when driving 45 miles per hour.

Which one do you think is closer to the answer?

When you have a more intricate understanding of human physiology, all this testing is rather unnecessary.

Sure, it may reveal more data about what’s going on.

But, at the end of the day these issues are merely downstream of the bigger issues in your mitochondria.

But, I digress.

Back to what you came here for fellow-health-seeker.

So, what does functional medicine do with all this information?

Key Areas of Focus for Functional Medicine Hashimoto’s Treatment 

If you thought the testing was exhaustive, wait till you see the approach!

Functional medicine takes an multi-(multi-multi-)pronged approach to overcoming the complex web of triggers underlying Hashimoto’s autoimmunity by addressing gut health, adrenal function, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies and environmental factors.

Healing leaky gut and gut dysbiosis

While conventional medicine dismisses “leaky gut” as alternative nonsense, functional medicine recognizes intestinal permeability and gut flora imbalances as key drivers of autoimmunity in Hashimoto’s. According to Vojdani and Vojdani (2020), “increased permeability in Hashimoto’s allows large molecules to cross the gut barrier, activating an immune reaction that can exacerbate thyroid inflammation.” Rather than relying on pills to mask symptoms, functional medicine approaches the gut as ground zero – working to repair its delicate lining, evict troublesome squatters from its microbiome and optimize digestive function from the inside out.

Armed with lab results, a functional “gut makeover” plan is crafted targeting pathogens and microbial diversity through antimicrobial herbs, probiotics with strains clinically proven effective for Hashimoto’s like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, and a diet low in sugar and high in prebiotic fibers that feeds good gut bugs. Jackson et al. (2019) found such pre/probiotic interventions in Hashimoto’s can “help repair gut barrier integrity, decrease Th1 expression, and reduce autoantibody levels.”

Simultaneously decreasing gut inflammation and irritation is key. Kaliora et al. (2019) recommend removing reactive foods through an elimination diet which for many means going gluten-free and dairy-free – especially since as Izabella Wentz (2017) wittily observes, “gluten is for leaky gut as cheese is for a mousetrap.” Anti-inflammatory nutrients like curcumin, omega 3’s and aloe vera also promote gut lining repair according to Myers (2020).

With time and the right regimen of diet, nutrients, botanicals and probiotics tailored to each patient’s needs, even long-standing leaky gut and dysbiosis underlying Hashimoto’s can be dramatically improved using a functional medicine model. By tuning up gut function at its source, rebalancing microbiota and reducing inflammation drivers, the autoimmune flame wreaking havoc on thyroid regulation starts to flicker and fade.

But, inflammation exists outside of the gut (hello brain fog!)… so that’s why the next step is to…

Reducing inflammation

While inflammation runs amok in Hashimoto’s, conventional treatment sticks to symptom relief alone – doing little to douse the smoldering flames fanning thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity from within. Functional medicine, on the other hand, makes inflammation public enemy number one, taking aim at it from multiple angles simultaneously based on the proven premise that defusing inflammation defuses disease.

First on the hit list are problematic foods acting as kindling for the fire. Myers (2020) asserts that “eliminating reactive and inflammatory foods is imperative when you have Hashimoto’s” – nothing sparks inflammation quite like gluten, dairy, sugar and co. An anti-inflammatory diet low in culinary arsonists and high in soothing agents like turmeric and ginger helps starve the flames.

Key nutrients that support inflammation taming and regulate immune function are also liberally supplied. According to Perrone et al. (2019), “several micronutrients play an immunomodulatory role in Hashimoto’s…like selenium, iron, zinc, omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins D and E.” A meta-analysis by González-Darder et al. (2019) found over 50% of Hashimoto’s patients were deficient in vitamin D, a nutrient with potent anti-inflammatory effects. Supplementing to achieve optimal levels, especially in winter or when sunlight is scarce, is considered critical for reining in inflammation.

Botanicals represent another battalion in the fight against inflammation, with substances like curcumin, boswellia and quercetin uniquely suited to address the roots of Hashimoto’s per Kaliora et al. (2019). Myers (2020) succinctly states “Herbs like turmeric help reduce inflammation and support an underactive thyroid gland naturally without the side effects of medications.”

Lifestyle changes round out an integrated anti-inflammatory strategy. Managing stress through exercise, meditation and adequate sleep works wonders since chronic inflammation and adrenal issues go together like matches and kindling. Reducing toxic exposures that spark an inflammatory cascade wherever possible also helps achieve a long term ceasefire.

While the inflammatory inferno of Hashimoto’s may rage for years, stoked unconsciously through diet and lifestyle, the good news is there are many functional medicine fire extinguishers capable of smothering the flames for good over time. By dousing triggers, optimizing nutrition, using targeted supplements and leading an overall anti-inflammatory lifestyle, Hashimoto’s remission may not continue to be such an elusive dream. Where there’s a will to fight inflammation, there’s a way to overcome autoimmunity.

Correcting nutritional deficiencies

Hashimoto’s is a condition of lack – lack of thyroid hormone, lack of nutrients essential for health – yet the standard of care focuses solely on thyroid medications and on synthetic hormone replacement. According to Wentz (2017), “nutritional deficiencies are very common in people with Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism but are often overlooked.”

Functional medicine, on the other hand, embraces a “supplement first” approach, reasoning that replenishing deficiencies of biologically active agents the body is intrinsically familiar with helps repair broken function, while drugs simply mask symptoms temporarily.

(We’ll talk about my take on the “supplement first” approach)

Kaliora et al. (2019) assert that “correcting micronutrient deficiencies is fundamental for restoring euthyroidism” in Hashimoto’s.

Key nutrients commonly lacking that support low thyroid function and immune health include selenium, zinc, omega 3’s, vitamin D, magnesium and B vitamins. A meta-analysis by Guastamacchia et al. (2012) found over half of Hashimoto’s patients were deficient in selenium, a trace element essential for healthy thyroid hormone metabolism and glutathione production. Supplementing with 200 mcg of l-selenomethionine helps facilitate conversion of T4 to T3 while quenching oxidative stress.

Vitamin D also plays an important role in immune modulation and euthyroid function. With many Hashimoto’s patients testing deficient according to Guastamacchia et al. (2012), adequate sun exposure and/or vitamin D3 supplements are vital for taming the autoimmune attack. Zinc, a mineral crucial for TSH and T4 balance, and magnesium, a cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions, are also commonly depleted but easily replenished through supplementation under guidance of a skilled functional physician.

An astute clinician considers synergies between nutrients in developing a comprehensive plan. For example, iron and vitamin C together support thyroid hormone synthesis, while vitamin B12 and folate are co-dependent yet often lacking hand in hand. Westhovens et al. (2018) found that “combating nutrient deficiencies with diet and supplements may help mitigate symptoms and support wellbeing” in those with Hashimoto’s.

While drugs have their place in managing autoimmune diseases and Hashimoto’s, they fail to address the metabolic shortages compromising health over the long run. Functional medicine operates from the understanding that nutritional deficiencies sow the seeds of pathology, so replenishing the essentials that fuel thyroid and whole body function represents the most strategic first step towards wellness – not an afterthought. By methodically correcting micronutrient insufficiencies, the body is empowered to operate as intended, reestablishing molecular harmony and paving the path for remission.

But how much of each supplement?

I don’t think I can tell you that without getting an interesting letter or phone call from some regulatory body.

Also, even if I could tell you, you always need to consider the whole person. So, dosages will vary.

Detoxifying the body

While toxins pour into the environment and bodies of those with Hashimoto’s at an alarming rate, conventional medicine remains largely unconcerned with their impact or removal. According to Wentz (2017), “environmental toxins and chemicals …damage our bodies and trigger autoimmunity”. Functional medicine acknowledges bioaccumulation of heavy metals and other toxicants as major contributors to disease that must be systematically cleared.

The detox process begins by identifying unwanted molecular occupants through urine, stool and blood testing. High levels of mercury, arsenic or lead may be detected, as well as pesticides and other endocrine disrupting chemicals. Once problematics are pinpointed, safe and comprehensive elimination is planned in phases considering biotransformation genetics and nutritional status.

Strategies span from eliminating food toxins like BPA and processed fare to infrared sauna for sweating out heavy metals. Myers (2020) advocates for “cleansing diets, detox supplements and herbs like cilantro, rosemary and burdock root to help remove toxins from your tissues and body.” Cilantro in particular is prized for mobilizing mercury, lead and aluminum from hard to reach spaces between fat cells and neurons.

Baths and coffee enemas aid detox through liver support and drainage of toxins through the gut wall and portal vein according to Myers (2020). Yance (2020) explains how coffee enemas “stimulate bile flow to help transport toxins…increasing glutathione production” – a compound critical for detoxification in Hashimoto’s.

Nutrients like turmeric, resveratrol and N-Acetyl Cysteine boost production of detox enzymes depleted in Hashimoto’s such as glutathione peroxidase. Minerals including zinc and selenium activate natural chelation, binding and elimination of toxicants from the body. According to Guastamacchia et al. (2012), “antioxidant therapy could prevent the possible damage caused by chronic autoimmune inflammation” in Hashimoto’s.

While environmental illness represents an inconvenient truth, the good news is detox need not be dangerous or complicated using a functional model. By gently identifying and eliminating toxins through nutritional support, herbs, hydrotherapy and lifestyle changes over time, health can be reclaimed in an intelligent, compassionate way. Every toxin cleared brings the body into better balance, brighter hope and closer to remission. Where toxins once ruled, health again reigns.

Relieving chronic stress

While most doctors dismiss stress as an inevitable life annoyance, functional medicine recognizes chronic stress as an insidious health saboteur – especially where Hashimoto’s is concerned. According to Wentz (2017), “stress is known to activate inflammation and suppress the immune system…which can exacerbate Hashimoto’s.” Managing the physiological and psychological impacts of chronic stress represents a key strategy for overcoming hypothyroidism naturally.

The adrenal glands bear the brunt of chronic stress, forced to pump out stimulatory cortisol over long periods which depletes pregnenolone, DHEA and other hormones required for thyroid health and immunity. Kaliora et al. (2019) recommend evaluating adrenal function in Hashimoto’s using either symptom questionnaires or urinary cortisol testing – looking for signs the body is stuck in ‘fight or flight’ mode with suboptimal ability to rest and digest. Where indicated, adrenal adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, maca and Rhodiola can help regulate cortisol levels and restore balance.

According to Myers (2020), exercise is “critical for helping your body cope with stress and produce anti-inflammatory compounds.” Yoga or Tai Chi have added benefits for inspiring parasympathetic flow. Adequate sleep is also non-negotiable since eight hours of solid rest nightly is required for tissue repair, hormone replenishment and unwinding anxiety. Limiting exposure to blue light, stimulation and stressful people after dark helps achieve this.

Meditation, massage therapy and mindfulness practices cultivate relaxation through connection between body and mind. Penman (2012) states, “mindfulness meditation…is effective at reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improving wellbeing and quality of life.” Even brief periods of focusing on breath and releasing intrusive thoughts can help drop stress levels significantly.

While life’s pressures won’t disappear, functional medicine provides the tools for balancing them. By nurturing adrenal health, embracing self-care activities that induce calm, limiting excess demands when possible and taking life slightly less seriously, the shackles of a chronic disease and stress loosen their grip allowing thyroid function and health to be reclaimed once more – one deep breath at a time. Where tight control and anxiety once ruled, flexibility and ease again reign. Empowered by a functional approach, Hashimoto’s patients discover that stress need not progress to distress.

Optimizing thyroid hormone levels

While hormone replacement eases symptoms short term, functional medicine focuses on rehabilitating thyroid function long term through natural extracts and lifestyle redesign from the ground up. According to Yance (2020), “Restoring thyroid health is best done naturally using botanical medicines and nutrition.”

Through trialing glandular extracts, hormone balancing herbs and making sustainable lifestyle changes, thyroid hormone levels can be coaxed back to optimal ranges where thyroid medication side requirements decrease or even fade away.

Thyroid glandulars and extracts supply raw materials for rebuilding and nourishing the gland. Adams (2020) explains how porcine thyroid (PT), or desiccated thyroid from pigs, provides natural thyroid hormone precursors and cofactors for supporting self-sufficient hormone production over time. T3-only extracts are also used where T4 to T3 conversion is impaired.

According to Myers (2020), through experimenting with different extracts under the guidance of a skilled clinician, “you can find your sweet spot and what works to make you feel absolutely amazing.”

Beyond extracts, plants have a long history of potentiating thyroid health. Kaliora et al. (2019) recommend herbs such as Coleus forskohlii to boost T4, Siberian ginseng to reduce TSH, and guggul which helps balance the thyroid axis. Ashwagandha, lemon balm and omega 3’s also support healthy hormone signaling and antibody suppression.

Diet and lifestyle measures round out a functional approach. Eliminating goitrogens, sugar, gluten and toxins while increasing nutritious whole foods, restorative movement and hydrotherapy nudges hormone levels through optimizing digestion, reducing inflammation and nurturing adrenal health. Intermittent fasting and protein restriction at night is said to enhance tissue sensitivity to thyroid hormone according to Yance (2020), while exposure to circadian-disrupting blue light after dark should be avoided.

The most empowering treatment for Hashimoto’s is one which reconnects individuals to their physiology. Through functional guidance exploring safe and natural means of balancing and producing thyroid hormone levels over months and years rather than lifelong medication alone, Hashimoto’s patients gain insights into behaviors and interventions that sustain wellness – making lifestyle the best medicine that money can’t buy. With time and commitment to change, the thyroid may return from chronic illness back to a renewed vitality.

Next Steps for Your Thyroid Gland and You

So, you’ve indeed learned quite a bit in this article.

Seriously, 4,000 words later and we have a “decent” foundation of understanding how conventional and other functional medicine practitioners approach Hashimoto’s.

But where do you begin?

Should you start ordering all these tests?

Is it back to Dr. Google PhD, MD?

Before you continue your Hashimoto’s journey, I’d like to give my 2 cents to this discussion.

My take on Hashimoto’s and Functional Medicine

One of the burning questions I always have is “why”?

Functional medicine does a good job of asking a few more layers to “why,” but there is a final layer to it all.

That is, why are you deficient in Vitamin D (despite probably already supplementing it)

Why is your gut microbiome off in the first place?

Why are your nutrients deficient too?

Is it karmic debt? Bad luck?

When you ask deeper questions, you get deeper and more meaningful answers.

What I’ve found over the years is that everything functional medicine is testing for is tied back to your mitochondria.

Sensitive to foods?

It’s because you have a breakdown of energy production from your mitochondria that leads to a poor regulation of your immune system.

Depleted in Vitamin D?

Your mitochondria are actually causing inflammation from malfunctioning and this increases inflammation that actually depletes you of vitamin D.

Why Hashimoto’s?

Recent research suggests mitochondrial dysfunction plays a role in the development and progression of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Hashimoto’s patients have been found to have impaired mitochondrial energy production, excessive reactive oxygen species that damage cells, and reduced antioxidant defenses. Lifestyle interventions like calorie restriction, increased intake of polyphenols and healthy fats, and reduced inflammation may help restore mitochondrial health and ease symptoms in Hashimoto’s disease. Improving mitochondrial function may offer a new therapeutic target for managing this autoimmune condition (Czarnecka 2020).

Healing is possible.

With conventional medicine, I would say a rather small proportion of people go into remission for Hashimoto’s.

With functional medicine, this number is much higher but still a long journey of 6 months to 10 years (seriously).

When you understand more about your mitochondria, that’s when we see people make rapid turnarounds in their health in a few weeks to 3 months.

To continue your Hashimoto’s education, go ahead and check out our free masterclass where I dive deeper into how your mitochondria and thyroid are connected.

Here’s the link: https://www.OptimalCircadianHealth.com/class 

Thanks for reading and here’s to your health!

Sincerely,

Dylan Petkus, MD

References

• Garber, J.R., Cobin, R.H., Gharib, H., Hennessey, J.V., Klein, I., Mechanick, J.I., Pessah-Pollack, R., Singer, P.A. and Woeber, K.A., 2012. Clinical practice guidelines for hypothyroidism in adults: cosponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Thyroid Association. Endocrine practice: official journal of the American College of Endocrinology and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, 18(6), pp.988-1028. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23246686/ 
• Kaliora S, Davis SN, Giannopoulou C,Panagiotakos DB, Lionis C, Chrousos GP, et al. Functional Medicine Application in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Case Report. Medicina. 2019;55(8):463.
• Grasberger E, Bell DS. Established and Emerging Biomarkers for Monitoring and Strategizing Therapeutic Interventions in Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Narrative Review. Diseases. 2019;7(4):61.
• Tomer Y, Huber A. The etiology of autoimmune thyroid disease: a story of genetics and environment. Journal of Autoimmunity. 2009;32(3-4):213-219. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19307103/
• Kharrazian D, Pick D. Transferring Patients from Allopathic to Integrative Medicine for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Lessons Learned From a Cross-Specialty Collaboration. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. 2020 Jan;26 Suppl 1:S18-S26.
• Myers, Amy. “Lab Testing in Functional Medicine.” Amy Myers MD, 2020.
• Pacitti, D., Punchard, N.A & Bhatnagar, D. (2013). Salivary Biomarkers of Endocrine and Metabolic Status. Open Journal of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, 03(01) http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/ojemd.2013.31004
• Vojdani, A., & Vojdani, E. (2020). Reaction of thyroid antibodies to cytokines and food antigens in autoimmune thyroid diseases. Endocrine, 67(2), 390–402. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12020-020-02286-6
• Jackson, W., Samanta, A., & Jackson, B. (2019). Breaching the Mucosal Barrier–The Link Between Gut Permeability and Autoimmunity. Cells, 8(8), 925. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells8080925
• Wentz, I. (2017). Hashimoto’s Protocol: A 90-Day Plan for Reversing Thyroid Symptoms and Getting Your Life Back. HarperOne. https://books.google.com/books/about/Hashimoto_s_Protocol.html?id=QmieDAAAQBAJ 
• Perrone, C., Benvenga, S., Biagiotti, R., Attanasio, E., Rossi, A., & Vitale, M. (2019). Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Lifestyles Interventions to Restore Wellness. Nutrients, 11(10), 2319.
• González-Darder, J.M., González-Villar, A., Botella-Carretero, J.I., Bailador González, E., Bailín-Grande, I., & Pérez-Piñero, S. (2019). Vitamin D levels in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Endocrinología, diabetes y nutrición, 66(5), 289–294.
• Guastamacchia, E., Triggiani, V., & Tafaro, E. (2012). Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: L-thyroxine treatment and a possible role of other autoimmune thyroid disorders and vitamin D deficiency. Expert review of endocrinology & metabolism, 7(6), 655–661.
• Westhovens, R., Da Silva, P. C., Wijns, K., De Clerck, L., D’Haese, P., Jardon, O. M.,.. & Verslype, C. (2018). A Nutritional Approach to Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Pilot Study. Medicina, 54(6), 94.
• Czarnecka, A. M., Kukwa, W., & Scislowska-Czarnecka, A. (2020). Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Mitochondria: Recent Advances. International journal of molecular sciences, 21(8), 2702. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32282830/

Are you exhausted beyond belief, struggling with a fatigue that makes each day an uphill battle? Does rest never seem to refresh you and your body feels like it’s turning against you? You’ve tried everything to reclaim your energy and life, but the sort of fatigue that comes with Hashimoto’s disease seems out of your control.

What if I told you there are secrets your doctors aren’t telling you, real solutions they don’t know because they weren’t trained with them? Secrets that can start reversing your fatigue at its true source, deep within your cells. Not masking the problem or temporary fixes to just get you through each day, but actually renewing your vitality and hope from the inside out.

The answers you’ve been searching for to unravel the mystery of your crushing exhaustion have been found. Healing is possible, and your energy and life are ready to be reignited. The question is…are you ready to take that first step to get them back?

If that speaks to you, then I have good news for you: the solution to rebooting your exhausted body and ending the energy crisis starts now. Your new life of vitality is on the horizon – you just need the right guide to lead the way.

You see, your thyroid is under attack daily by your immune system, causing inflammation that destroys your energy. The fatigue worsens over time. Doctors offer no real relief and life slips away. You’ve invested in solutions that failed because they didn’t address the roots of fatigue. The disease marches on. Your condition impacts your mood, mind and quality of life. Exhaustion brings anxiety, depression and isolation. You have no control and fear what the future may hold if the fatigue progresses without answers. 

Right now you need real answers and healing or the damage could become permanent. The time is now.

Your career or business is suffering from frequent brain fog, difficulty concentrating and low productivity. Tasks that were once easy now feel insurmountable. You have little ability to innovate or handle high-stress situations. You fear losing your job or income if this continues without answers.

At home, you’re unable to fully participate in activities with family or maintain daily household responsibilities. Simple chores wipe you out for hours or days. Your exhaustion strains relationships as social invitations become too taxing to accept or you cancel commitments at the last moment. You watch life happen around you rather than living it yourself.

The things that once brought you meaning or pleasure now remain out of reach. You have almost nothing left to give at the end of each day and little ability to pursue hobbies, adventures or your own personal interests. Purpose gives way to merely surviving from one day to the next.

Your fatigue can be healed. 

We uniquely identify and address the sources of your fatigue at its roots. There are lifestyle solutions to reboot your energy – your mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerplants of your cells, producing energy to fuel your body’s functions. When mitochondria are compromised by Hashimoto’s inflammation, fatigue is inescapable. By nurturing your mitochondria back to health and achieving what we call the ATP-Floodgate, energy can finally be restored.

We provide proven plans based on experience and expertise. Stress reduction techniques start easing inflammation and symptoms right away. We nurture your body and mind back to wellness.

Your condition is absolutely reversible and healing is possible no matter how advanced. We help those who have failed with doctors and natural remedies for years. Coaching gives tailored guidance beyond standard information. Save time and find what works for you with experts versus costly trial-and-error.

Now you can take back your health and life. Vitality and hope are on the horizon. Answers and healing await you.

Take your life back by booking a Health Strategy Session. We get to the root causes of your fatigue and give you a plan to rebalance your body, support your thyroid and re-energize you within. Life opens up again when fatigue is no longer in control. Real solutions and a vibrant future await you. 

Take that first step by booking a session here 

You may feel like there’s no end in sight to the constant depletion and health crisis your body seems to be in, but healing is absolutely possible. The truth is, you simply haven’t had access to the right solutions or specialists who know how to properly manage the roots of Hashimoto’s fatigue. Doctors are limited in their prescribed approaches and often miss key areas that need to be addressed. By the time you realize the typical methods aren’t working, you’re left feeling out of options, out of control and fearful for the future.

There are answers to reclaim your days with energy instead of watching life pass you by in a fog of fatigue. A team of experts trained in advanced protocols for Hashimoto’s disease can stop the cycle of failing remedies to give you a customized roadmap to transform your vitality. They begin by identifying the unique, often unforeseen biological sources that are at the root of your crushing exhaustion.

With tailored lifestyle changes and strategic support for your body, symptoms are eased, health is gradually restored, and hope for a vibrant life is reignited —all under the guidance of specialists devoted to your care. Reach out now for a complimentary Health Strategy Session and discover what’s possible when fatigue’s grip is finally broken and you have experts leading the way. Take back your body. Take back your life. The time for change is now.

Book your free session now.

References:

Amy Yeah, Keith Brownlee, Carson Goodale. Mitochondria: The site for apoptotic regulation in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Autoimmunity Reviews, Volume 15, Issue 2, 2016, Pages 136-142.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568997215002577

Cristina Dumitrescu, Helge Lohr, Simion Braniste, Matthias Koeppen-Hagemann, Anca Limbău, Cristian Băicuș Mariana Rădulescu, Christoph van Thriel. Effects of lifestyle interventions on quality of life and fatigue in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis patients: A pilot study. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Volume 37, October 2018, Pages 11-17.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229918300438

Did you know that your body and a cheesy pizza share a common enemy?

Allow me to introduce you to the notorious duo of Hashimoto’s and gluten. 

In this post, we’re going to dive into the seedy underworld of autoimmune diseases, while cracking inappropriate jokes and making witty remarks along the way. 

You might be thinking, “What’s in it for me?” 

Well, stick around and you’ll uncover secrets to deep healing that could potentially save your life – or at the very least, make you feel like a million bucks.

Hashimoto’s and Gluten

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is like that irritating neighbor who insists on mowing their lawn at 7 AM on a Saturday, completely disrupting your peaceful weekend slumber.

Except in this case, your immune system is the obnoxious neighbor, and your thyroid gland is the unsuspecting lawn being targeted.

Your immune system, in a bizarre act of misguided enthusiasm, decides to get all up in your thyroid’s business, relentlessly attacking it like an overzealous landscaper. This unwanted attention leads to inflammation, damage, and eventually an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, as your thyroid struggles to produce the necessary hormones to keep your body functioning optimally.

Just like that neighbor who ruins your precious weekend sleep, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can have a significant impact on your quality of life, turning what should be a well-functioning endocrine system into a hormonal battleground.

But why does your overzealous landscaper go on the attack in the first place?

Is he drunk?

Does he just want to use up the last little bit of his gas?

Did he get carried away while listening to an audiobook?

We may never know… but what I can tell you is why your immune system is attacking you.

You see, your immune system will only attack proteins it doesn’t recognize just like how a landscaper will (hopefully) only take a weed whacker to weeds (although I’ll never forget when someone did that to my mom’s garden… that’s another blog for another day).

Your body will damage it’s own proteins and this will give your immune system proteins to attack!

Why does this happen?

There’s two big reasons

1- Molecular mimicry

2- Something secret I’m going to tease you with. I’m going to delay it in a feint tactic to get you to read the whole dang thing (I have your best interest in mind).

Let’s talk about mechanism 1 first.

Autoimmune Disease, Molecular mimicry and Hashimoto’s

Picture this: your immune system is like a bouncer at a swanky nightclub, keeping a watchful eye out for any shady characters trying to crash the party (no the analogies don’t stop).

It’s pretty good at its job, but sometimes, it gets a bit too zealous, and that’s where the trouble starts.

Enter molecular mimicry, a sneaky little phenomenon that’s like an identity thief dressed up as your favorite movie star.

Essentially, certain foreign proteins – say, from a bacteria or virus – can closely resemble proteins in your body. Your immune system, ever the vigilant bouncer, spots the foreign protein and decides it’s time to throw down.

However, in its enthusiasm, it may get a bit overzealous and accidentally attack your own body’s proteins that resemble the foreign ones. It’s a classic case of mistaken identity, with your thyroid getting caught in the crossfire.

Now, let’s bring Hashimoto’s thyroiditis into the mix. The theory goes that certain proteins in gluten may closely resemble proteins found in your thyroid gland.

If you have a sensitivity or intolerance to gluten, your immune system might start attacking it like an overeager bouncer. But in its fervor, it might also confuse your thyroid proteins for gluten’s evil twins, resulting in collateral damage and inflammation of the thyroid gland.

And that, my friends, is how molecular mimicry and gluten could be implicated in the onset or worsening of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Now, this only plays a role in the process. There’s more to this story

Before we dive more into gluten… let’s talk about Celiac disease.

Celiac Disease

Enter celiac disease, the autoimmune disorder where your immune system attacks your small intestine when you eat gluten. It’s like your body’s own version of Game of Thrones, with gluten as the villain everyone loves to hate.

And just like that, we have a plot twist.

You see, while celiac disease is the most well-known gluten-related villain, it’s not the only one on the block.

There’s also non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).

Now, imagine your immune system is not just an annoying neighbor, but also a confused detective who’s been watching one too many crime dramas.

When it comes across gluten containing foods, it mistakes it for a threat and goes into full attack mode.

Unfortunately, the innocent thyroid gland gets caught in the crossfire because of an overactive immune system.

So when your immune system starts launching assaults against gluten, it inadvertently targets your thyroid as well.

Thyroid Gland – The Domino Effect of Disrupted Hormones

And, we need to gain some common ground on the thyroid gland first.

Picture your thyroid gland as the conductor of your body’s hormonal orchestra, keeping everything harmoniously in tune.

When your brain needs to kick metabolism on, it will secret thyroid releasing hormone to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones.

Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4 which have fancier medical names but we’ll just keep things simple) then go to ALL your cells to increase energy production.

It’s important to know that thyroid hormone turns on your mitochondria to produce energy (keep that fact in your back pocket for now).

When Hashimoto’s thyroiditis disrupts the delicate balance of hormones produced by your thyroid, it sets off a domino effect of health issues that can impact your day-to-day life in more ways than you might realize. Let’s explore some of the most common downstream effects of an underactive thyroid:

1. Weight Gain: One of the primary roles of thyroid hormones is to regulate your metabolism. With a sluggish thyroid, your body burns fewer calories, leading to unwelcome weight gain that can feel frustratingly out of your control.

    

2. Fatigue: Low thyroid hormone levels can make you feel like you’re constantly running on empty. Your energy levels take a nosedive, and all you want to do is curl up on the couch and binge-watch your favorite show.

    

3. Depression and Mood Swings: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in maintaining your mental well-being. When they’re out of whack, it can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and even depression.

    

4. Cognitive Dysfunction: Brain fog, anyone? A malfunctioning thyroid can make it difficult to concentrate and remember things, leaving you feeling like you’re wandering through a mental haze.

    

5. Hair Loss and Brittle Nails: Thyroid hormones are essential for healthy hair and nails. When your thyroid is under siege, you may notice your locks becoming thin and lackluster, and your nails prone to breakage.

    

6. Menstrual Irregularities: Hormonal imbalances caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can lead to irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or even infertility in women.

    

7. Cold Intolerance: Struggling to stay warm, even when everyone else seems toasty? Low thyroid hormone levels can make it difficult for your body to regulate its temperature, leaving you shivering in your sweater.

These are just a few examples of the downstream effects caused by a thyroid gland under attack from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The good news is that understanding the connection between your immune system, gluten, and your thyroid may hold the key to regaining control of your health and putting an end to this hormonal chaos once and for all.

With all these negative effects, making a dietary change such as removing gluten seems like a great idea (if it works fully).

Gluten Free Diet

This is completely unrelated to you ever eating gluten again, but I first want to state that I went gluten free before it was trendy.

Many moons ago, I lived above a Subway sandwich shop.

I’m not sure if you’ve even been forced to smell pseudo-bread every single day or not…

But, in doing so, the idea of bread or any wheat products became vomit-producing at a deep spiritual level.

Gluten free diets have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in some people with autoimmune diseases, autoimmune conditions including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Does gluten really affect Hashimoto’s?

Yes! (Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise…)

Gluten consumption affects Hashimoto’s disease.

In fact, some studies have shown a connection between gluten sensitivity and other autoimmune diseases and thyroid disease, suggesting that gluten might be poking the bear when it comes to your immune system’s attack on your thyroid.

Is gluten or dairy worse for patients with Hashimoto’s?

While we’re here, let’s talk about milk.

In my mind, this question is like asking whether a paper cut or a splinter is worse.

Gluten is often considered the main culprit, but dairy can also contribute to inflammation and exacerbate Hashimoto’s symptoms.

Now, gluten and dairy are typically the top culprits… but there are others to be aware of!

What foods worsen Hashimoto’s and cause flare-ups?

Foods that can worsen Hashimoto’s include gluten, dairy products, soy, and processed foods. It’s like a who’s who of dietary troublemakers. Eliminating these foods can help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.

By understanding how dairy and other foods cause flare-ups, you can begin to understand more about the underlying causes of Hashimoto’s (and all autoimmunity in fact).

First, let’s cover cheese.

Dairy contains several compounds like lactose and certain proteins.

These compounds will raise inflammation.

And, when you have more inflammation, this leads to more damage to products that trigger your immune system!

Now, for this to happen your immune system and cells need to be in a pretty bad spot already (hence why all cheese-eaters aren’t dead… yet).

For processed foods, the main culprits are typically sugar and inflammatory fatty acids.

We won’t cover why the fatty acids cause issues (because we literally just did).

But why does sugar cause havoc?

Well, sugar is like diesel fuel for your mitochondria.

You’ll produce a lot of energy, but at a cost (besides the weight gain).

When burning sugar, your mitochondria actually produce more free radicals that then lead to more damaged proteins that lead to… (are you starting to see a theme yet?!?!)

Do I really have to be gluten-free and dairy-free if I have Hashimoto’s?

No, you don’t.

I’d like to remind you this is the internet and not Guantanamo Bay.

Heck, if you want to eat bread while reading this article, then I’m not going to cry (too much) about it.

And, if you really want to double down on it, put some cheddar on it.

What I can tell you is that you will need to remove these foods to help kickstart the initial healing process.

However, if you’ve been reading carefully, I’ve been saying that neither gluten, dairy, or processed foods CAUSE hashimoto’s or autoimmune thyroiditis.

In other words, these foods potentiate a problem that’s already there in the first place.

It’s just like throwing gasoline on a smoldering campfire. The campfire, in this case, represents the underlying issue that’s causing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

It’s already there, albeit in a more controlled and manageable state. But when you introduce gluten, dairy, or processed foods into the mix, it’s like tossing gasoline onto those glowing embers. Suddenly, you’ve got yourself a raging inferno, with flames shooting up and smoke billowing everywhere.

These foods don’t cause Hashimoto’s thyroiditis on their own. Instead, they act as accelerants, taking a pre-existing problem and making it exponentially worse.

It’s like going from a cozy campfire sing-along to a full-blown forest fire that’s threatening to consume everything in its path.

So, while you can’t blame gluten, dairy, or processed foods for single-handedly causing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, you can certainly hold them responsible for fanning the flames of an existing condition.

And in order to bring that fire under control, you might want to consider cutting back on the gasoline – or in this case, reevaluating your diet and eliminating potential triggers.

Now, before we get into exactly how to tailor your diet… let’s get some important questions answered.

Are people with Hashimoto’s gluten intolerant?

This is more a technical question for my fellow academic snobs in the room.

Not everyone with Hashimoto’s is gluten sensitive or intolerant, but there is a higher prevalence of gluten sensitivity among those with other autoimmune disorders or thyroid disease. It is for Hashimoto’s patients like being part of an exclusive club, but not one you necessarily want to join.

Does gluten cause Hashimoto’s?

And while us academic snobs are here, let’s discuss this one.

There is some evidence out there in the literature.

However, I wouldn’t bet my cat that gluten leads to Hashimoto’s.

Instead, gluten triggers a system already damaged and susceptible to Hashimoto’s.

Can Hashimoto’s turn into celiac disease?

Let me be very bold here and give you a firm answer on this:

“Kinda.”

You see, people with one autoimmune disease have a higher risk of developing another autoimmune condition.

Why’s that?

That’s because there is a common fault in the mitochondria.

Does gluten cause high thyroid antibodies?

Yes!

Gluten can contribute to high thyroid antibodies in those with autoimmune thyroid disease, as it triggers an immune response that mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.

This will lead to elevations in thyroid antibodies such as anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (TG) antibodies, which are often markers of an autoimmune response to thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.

So, if you’re a scientist or just curious, you could consider testing your antibodies before and after being gluten-free

How to go gluten-free

Remember!

Going gluten-free is necessary, but not sufficient to heal people with Hashimoto’s disease.

Just like how matches are necessary for a fire, but not sufficient (you still need wood and your pyromaniac friend).

It’s time to say hello to the gluten free foods if you want to give your thyroid some much-needed TLC. But don’t you worry, I’m here to hold your hand and guide you through this perilous journey of banishing bread and bidding cheese goodbye. So buckle up and let’s do this thing.

Step 1: Throw a tantrum (optional)

Yep, I said it. Give yourself a moment to mourn the loss of your beloved baguettes and brie. Scream into a pillow, have a good cry, or binge-watch some sappy rom-coms. Once you’ve gotten that out of your system, it’s time to move on and conquer the world (or at least the grocery store).

Step 2: Read labels like a pro

It’s time to unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes and scrutinize those food labels like your life depends on it. Gluten and dairy can lurk in the most unexpected places (I’m looking at you, soy sauce and salad dressing). So, be vigilant and let no sneaky gluten or dairy molecules slip past your watchful eye.

Step 3: Discover a whole new world of deliciousness

Yes, we know, you’re going to miss the heck out of your croissants and camembert. But guess what? There’s a whole universe of gluten-free and dairy-free yumminess just waiting to be explored. Gluten-free bread, almond milk, and even cashew cheese are ready to sweep you off your feet and whisk you away to a land of culinary delight.

Step 4: Learn to cook (or fake it till you make it)

You don’t have to be a master chef, but learning a few gluten-free and dairy-free recipes will save your sanity (and your wallet). There are a gazillion blogs and YouTube channels out there to help you channel your inner Gordon Ramsay (profanity included). So, put on your apron and get ready to dazzle your taste buds.

Step 5: Remember, it’s not a prison sentence

Look, going gluten-free and dairy-free isn’t a life sentence of culinary deprivation. You’re doing this to help your poor, beleaguered thyroid and show Hashimoto’s who’s boss. So, embrace the challenge, find joy in discovering new foods, and take pride in taking control of your health.

Don’t forget about healing the underlying issues

This sentence is only here to remind you to read to the end.

Can I eat gluten-free oatmeal with Hashimoto’s?

Heaven forbid I take away someone’s oatmeal.

Most people with Hashimoto’s can safely eat gluten-free oatmeal, as long as it’s certified gluten-free and not cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains.

Who we’ve seen benefit from going gluten-free

Now, it’s one thing to get your questions answered and get some science… but how does this play out for real people in the real world?

Let’s go through a few case studies, shall we?

(names are changed because these people are in the witness protection program)

Sarah

Sarah had tried everything to manage Hashimoto’s symptoms, including countless medications, diets, and even acupuncture. Despite her efforts, she still felt exhausted, foggy-headed, and achy. Sarah was hesitant to invest in her health and skeptical about the benefits of a gluten-free diet, but she decided to give it a try.

Within weeks, Sarah’s energy levels soared, her mental clarity improved, and her aches and pains diminished. She felt like a new person, and her family couldn’t believe the transformation. Her partner, who had been bearing the brunt of Sarah’s symptoms, was overjoyed at the positive change in their relationship.

John

Another example is John. John had been struggling with Hashimoto’s for years, and his symptoms were taking a toll on his work and personal life. He was hesitant to try a gluten-free diet, as he couldn’t imagine life without his beloved bread and pasta. However, after some convincing, John decided to give it a shot.

To his surprise, John’s symptoms improved dramatically. He had more energy, better mental clarity, and improved mood. His family noticed the change too and were thrilled to see John feeling better and more engaged in their lives. His partner, who had been feeling the strain of John’s health issues, was grateful for the positive impact the dietary change had on their relationship.

Now, there’s a slight twist for Sarah and John.

Yes, they avoided gluten.

But, that’s not all they focused on…

Mitochondria: The Foundation for Hashimoto’s Healing and Reducing Food Sensitivities

Hold onto your hats, folks, because it’s time for SECRET 2! Ready to dive into the world of cellular powerhouses and discover how they’re calling the shots in this Hashimoto’s saga? Let’s go!

You see, those tiny little mitochondria – you remember, the ones from high school biology class that you thought you’d never hear about again – are actually the key players in this whole gluten-triggered, thyroid-damaging fiasco.

These microscopic energy factories are responsible for producing the cellular energy that keeps your body running smoothly. But when they go rogue, all bets are off.

Bad mitochondria are like the ill-tempered, sleep-deprived employees at the cellular energy production factory. When they’re not operating at peak performance, they churn out free radicals like it’s going out of style.

These pesky free radicals then wreak havoc by causing your immune system to overreact. It’s like the world’s worst office party, and your immune system is the poor soul stuck on clean-up duty.

But wait, there’s more (let me go “infomercial” on you)!

These grumpy mitochondria also mess with your T-regulatory cells, preventing them from doing their job and keeping your immune system stuck in overdrive mode. It’s like having a broken thermostat in the middle of a heatwave – nobody’s happy, and things can go south pretty quickly.

To top it all off, bad mitochondria make your thyroid work harder than it should. Because mitochondria produce cellular energy, if there isn’t enough energy to go around, your thyroid has to pick up the slack.

While your thyroid is usually up for the challenge, if this goes on for too long, it can get worn out and become vulnerable to damage. It’s like asking a marathon runner to sprint the entire race – eventually, they’re going to hit a wall.

So, if you don’t powerfully address your mitochondria, then you end up restricting your foods forever while still having the real issue boil underneath!

And, when you get your mitochondria right, that helps restore balance to our immune system, ultimately reducing our sensitivity to gluten and other food triggers.

Remember, a happy mitochondria is the foundation for healing your thyroid and overcoming Hashimoto’s.

But How Do I Do That?

So, you’ve learned a ton about Hashimoto’s, about gluten intolerance, and the potential benefits of a gluten-free diet. You’ve seen the incredible transformations of Sarah and John, and you’re curious about how mitochondrial and circadian rhythm health can play a role in your healing journey. If you’re thinking, “Hey, maybe I should give this a try,” we’re here to help.

Consider booking a 1-on-1 health strategy session with our team to explore how we can help you achieve deep healing and a better quality of life.

Together, we can develop a personalized plan to tackle your Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and help you live a happier, healthier life.

Just use this link here: https://wy9wfehv62e.typeform.com/to/A5Im5qMJ#source=The-Hashimoto’s-&-Gluten-Saga:-Unmasking-the-Forbidden-Relationship

If not, no worries, take the lessons you’ve learned here or check out our other content!

References:

Sategna-Guidetti C, Volta U, Ciacci C, Usai P, Carlino A, De Franceschi L, Camera A, Pelli A, Brossa C. (2001). Prevalence of thyroid disorders in untreated adult celiac disease patients and the effect of gluten withdrawal: an Italian multicenter study. Am J Gastroenterol. 2001 Mar; 96(3):751-7.

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