Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
When your immune system attacks your thyroid. Hashimoto's is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries. Antibodies gradually destroy thyroid tissue, leading to underactive thyroid. Often reversible with the right approach.
The Autoimmune Attack
TPO Antibodies
Attack thyroid peroxidase enzyme. Most common marker. Indicates active destruction.
Thyroglobulin Antibodies
Attack thyroglobulin protein. Second marker. May fluctuate independently.
Known Triggers
Environmental
- Gluten: Molecular mimicry with thyroid
- Excess iodine: Can trigger in susceptible
- Infections: EBV, H. pylori, Yersinia
- Toxins: Pesticides, heavy metals
Internal
- Leaky gut: Intestinal permeability
- Stress: Cortisol dysregulation
- Pregnancy: Postpartum trigger
- Genetics: HLA genes, family history
Critical Nutrients
Selenium
Reduces antibodies 20-40%. Protects thyroid from oxidative damage. 200mcg daily studied.
Vitamin D
Immune modulation. Low levels linked to Hashimoto's. Optimize to 50-70 ng/mL.
Zinc
T4 to T3 conversion. Immune function. Often depleted in hypothyroidism.
Iron
TPO enzyme cofactor. Often low in Hashimoto's. Check ferritin levels.
Iodine
Controversial. Needed but can flare. Only with selenium. Start very low.
B12
Often deficient with autoimmunity. Check even if "normal." Pernicious anemia link.
Dietary Interventions
Gluten-Free
Often reduces antibodies. Gluten mimics thyroid tissue. Try for 3+ months.
AIP Diet
Autoimmune protocol. Elimination then reintroduction. Identifies personal triggers.
Dairy-Free
Casein may cross-react. Try eliminating. Often paired with gluten-free.
Low Goitrogens
Raw cruciferous may interfere. Cooking reduces impact. Usually fine cooked.
Anti-inflammatory
Omega-3s, turmeric, ginger. Reduce systemic inflammation driving autoimmunity.
Blood Sugar Balance
Insulin spikes worsen thyroid. Low-glycemic eating. Avoid processed foods.
Treatment Approaches
Levothyroxine (T4)
Standard treatment. Synthetic T4. Works for many. Take on empty stomach.
T4/T3 Combination
Adding liothyronine. For poor converters. May improve symptoms.
NDT (Desiccated)
Natural thyroid (Armour, NP). Contains all hormones. Some prefer it.
LDN
Low-dose naltrexone. Immune modulator. May reduce antibodies. Emerging therapy.
Address Root Causes
Gut healing, infection treatment. Toxin removal. True reversal potential.
Stress Management
Cortisol affects conversion. Meditation, sleep. Adrenal support if needed.