What is Hashimoto's Disease?
Hashimoto's disease, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage to the gland. This can result in an under-active thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism.
Possible Symptoms of Hashimoto's Disease
Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease can include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, hair loss, and changes in mood. Some people with Hashimoto's disease may also experience swelling in the neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland, known as a goiter.
How is Hashimoto's Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease typically involves blood tests to check thyroid hormone levels and antibodies that indicate an autoimmune response. Treatment usually involves medication to replace the missing thyroid hormones and manage symptoms. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise may also be recommended.
It's important for patients with Hashimoto's disease to work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their condition, adjust medications as needed, and maintain overall thyroid health.
Can Hashimoto's Disease Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, Hashimoto's disease cannot be prevented because it is an autoimmune condition, meaning it is caused by an overactive immune response attacking the thyroid gland. However, there are some steps that may help manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of complications:
1. Ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients, especially iodine and selenium, which are important for thyroid health.
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and managing stress
3. Avoid smoking and limit exposure to environmental toxins that may harm thyroid function
4. Regularly monitor thyroid function through blood tests and follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider
5. Consider genetic testing if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases to assess the risk of developing Hashimoto's disease
While prevention may not be possible, early detection and treatment of Hashimoto's disease can help manage symptoms and improve overall thyroid health.
Integrative Medicine Approaches for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis may include:
1. Nutritional therapy: A focus on nutrient-dense foods and dietary changes such as the The Autoimmune Protocol Diet (AIP), eliminating gluten, dairy, and processed foods, as these may exacerbate autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's. As an eating disorder specialist I am hard-pressed to suggest any type of diet especially one as restricting as AIP but when appropriate and with guidance of a qualified clinician there may be a medicinal benefit.
2. Stress management techniques: Techniques such as mindful meditation, yoga, or relaxation exercises can help reduce stress levels, which may in turn support the immune system and improve thyroid function.
3. Supplements: Certain supplements, such as selenium, zinc, vitamin D, and probiotics, may support thyroid health and immune function in individuals with Hashimoto's.
4. Acupuncture: Some individuals find relief from symptoms of Hashimoto's with acupuncture treatments, which can help improve energy flow and support overall well-being.
5. Ferritin (a protein that stores iron in your cells) should be monitored in someone at risk or with Hashimoto's. disease. Appropriate replacement with iron glycinate is very useful.
6. Gut Health. The guts permeability can be tarnished with autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto's therefore gastric acid supplements and probiotics are helpful in some cases
7. Inflammation. Decreasing the body's inflammatory response with good sourced omega three fatty acids, turmeric and possibly low dose naltrexone (LDN) should be considered under the guidance of a medical professional
8. Herbal medicine: Certain herbs, such as ashwagandha, may be used to support thyroid function and help manage symptoms of Hashimoto's.
This blog was not written to provide medical advise, it is important to work with a qualified healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about integrative and functional medicine to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs.
Special thanks to one of my favorite athletes, CK, for asking fantastic questions that inspired this blog <3
