Hashimoto - what aggravates and what alleviates the disease

Hashimoto

I have already covered the topic of Hashimoto's disease HERE, so let us just recall the most important issues. Hashimoto is an autoimmune disease that causes the thyroid to become the main target of the immune system's attacks. The thyroid gland is one of the more important hormonal centres of the human body, so when the disease flares up, it wreaks havoc. Interestingly, in many people diagnosed with hypothyroidism, an autoimmune basis has been noted. Unfortunately, in most cases it is treated like classic hypothyroidism, by giving thyroid medication. As you have probably noticed, this does not eliminate the source of the problem. The fact is that Hashimoto can remain hidden for a long time and is identified only when the aforementioned thyroid problem appears. At that point, it is necessary to eliminate aggravating factors and ensure the proper functioning of the immune system. The thyroid gland is the favourite area of attack, but that does not mean that other organs will not be negatively affected as well. Of course, genetic predisposition increases the risk of the disease, although it is not the only factor influencing the development and progression of the disease.

What aggravates Hashimoto's?

Apart from genes, Hashimoto's disease can be worsened by certain environmental factors and specific groups of foods that should be eliminated from the diet. Interestingly, women are affected much more often than men, especially women after pregnancy and menopause. As we know, the hormonal aspect plays one of the most important roles, and therefore it should come as no surprise that oestrogen imbalances are considered one of the potential causes. Moreover, it is said that blood sugar problems are an issue in many diseases, including autoimmune ones, and therefore also Hashimoto's. Drastic, frequent fluctuations in blood sugar burden the adrenal glands, while the secreted cortisol (the stress hormone) affects the pituitary gland, which disrupts thyroid function. Another factor contributing to the disease is toxins, especially heavy metals. The body may have quite a problem eliminating them. The same applies to medications. The main threat is mercury, as well as other elements such as chlorine. There are also groups of products that irritate the immune system and promote and exacerbate the condition in Hashimoto's. Let us begin, however, with the fact that one of the flagship circumstances is vitamin D deficiency, which affects a large part of the population, often without them even realising it. This is due, among other things, to lifestyle, highly processed and nutritionally poor food, or even geographical location (let us not forget that this vitamin belongs to the fat-soluble group). Deficiencies of certain nutrients can worsen progression, and thus symptoms, while also worsening the overall condition of the body. Among the deficient substances we can include high-quality proteins, the lack of which lowers the conversion of T4 to T3. As for other elements, iodine comes to the fore, and it is often forgotten. Its amount must be adequate, although its use in this disease is still considered controversial by some in the medical community. Hashimoto's is associated with the immune system, and as we know, most of the immune system is located in the intestines. Gastrointestinal problems promote the disease. This is all the more so because the proper bacterial flora supports the conversion of T4 to T3. Particularly dangerous are: intestinal inflammation, leaky gut, disturbances of the bacterial flora, digestive disorders, and a lack of stomach acid. High exposure to stress and insufficient recovery are other factors. High levels of stress disrupt the conversion of the aforementioned thyroid hormones, and may also cause resistance to these hormones.

Which products should be avoided in Hashimoto's?

It probably will not surprise anyone that the first suspect, or rather culprit, is gluten, a mixture of plant proteins present primarily in grains. The most problematic is gliadin, which, with additional problems involving the integrity of the intestinal barrier, can freely enter the bloodstream. What happens next? The immune system will target it. Unfortunately, gliadin shows structural similarity to thyroid proteins, which means that our system will also attack the thyroid. It is worth mentioning that lectins have the ability to attach to cells and tissues, causing their destruction. Moreover, a similar effect is observed in relation to the intestines, resulting in increased permeability. Legumes often contain lectins, and on top of that they cause gastrointestinal problems. In Hashimoto's, milk, milk products, dairy are also excluded. In addition, due to the leaky intestines, undigested proteins enter the bloodstream. As a result, the body is unable to recognise them… Hashimoto - gluten Should also be avoided are nightshade plants, as they may worsen problems with leaky gut. Some experts do not recommend consuming cruciferous plants, as they may hinder the uptake of the aforementioned iodine by the thyroid. Nevertheless, when cooked briefly, they are a valuable source of minerals, so first of all it is worth focusing on the remaining groups of products.

What to eat with Hashimoto's?

While taking into account the products that need to be eliminated, it is still necessary to provide essential micro- and macroelements. Diet is especially important in Hashimoto's disease because, first and foremost, the excessive activity of the immune system needs to be calmed. It is worth choosing very good sources of healthy fatty acids (EPA, DHA), which also provide vitamin D3. Even so, supplementation is advisable, because its upper limit should be targeted. Vegetables and good-quality meats are also not without significance. Fruit is excluded when insulin resistance is also present and only at the beginning, because restricting carbohydrates for too long will not necessarily be positively received by the thyroid. If we do not have any intolerance, eggs will be a good idea. What about grains? Well, grains are not recommended, but... after some time, you can start introducing ones such as quinoa or amaranth.

Helpful supplementation

Supplementation will depend on which branch of the immune system plays the dominant role. That is why, first and foremost, the branch of the system needs to be addressed. The idea is to stimulate the weakened branch in order to obtain the proper data. In any case, the following may be a good idea:

• glutathione,
• probiotics,
• resveratrol,
• colostrum,
• vitamin D3,
• vitamins A and E,
• sodium butyrate

Additionally, measures ensuring the stabilisation of blood sugar and digestive function. In some situations, increasing stomach acidity, pancreatic enzymes, alpha-lipoic acid and TMG are recommended.