The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland situated at the front of the neck. The pituitary gland located at the base of the brain secretes the Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to release hormones T3 & T4 involved in metabolism.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an inflammatory autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, in this case, the thyroid gland, disrupting normal function. There are multiple variations of thyroid dysfunction however Hashimoto’s is one of the most common forms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Possible causes of Hashimoto’s
- Chronic stress may disrupt immune function, inhibiting TSH production, impairing the conversion of T4 to active T3, along with reducing the cellular sensitivity of receptors to thyroid hormones.
- Food sensitivities
- SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) or leaky gut
- Low stomach acidity
- Insulin resistance
- Postpartum or perimenopausal drop in progesterone
- Reactivation of Epstein-Barr virus (eg. Glandular Fever)
- Parasitic infections eg. H. Pylori & Blastocystis hominis
Signs & symptoms include
Fatigue, weight gain, low mood, poor memory, brain fog, heavy &/or irregular periods, hair loss, dry skin, sensitivity to cold, brittle nails, dry cracked heals, constipation & low libido.
Diagnosis
Hashimoto’s can be diagnosed via blood test. TSH is often the only marker tested with suspected thyroid dysfunction, which is not always the best indicator indicator, as results may be reported within the ‘normal’ reference range. Testing inclusive of TSH, T3, T4 & reverse T3 along with antibodies provides a more comprehensive perspective. Naturopaths are guided by a narrower ‘ideal’ reference range & attempt to treat the condition before reaching the extremes.
Naturopathic Considerations
- Identify, remove & treat any triggers/initiating factors
- Repair the gut
- Replenish with nutritional & herbal support
Correcting Intestinal Permeability & Leaky Gut
It is important to identify & remove food sensitivities as well as strictly avoid gluten, as this contributes to gut inflammation. Another underlying driver of Hashimoto’s is SIBO, which is an abnormal increase in bacteria in the small intestine. SIBO contributes to intestinal permeability & leaky gut. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, fatigue, nausea, reflux, weight loss & notably bloating or abdominal distension that is worse after eating.
Diet & Lifestyle
- Reducing stress.
- Anti-inflammatory, nutrient dense, polyphenol & antioxidant rich diet high in fibre.
- Avoiding gluten, food sensitivities, alcohol, highly refined carbohydrates, sugars & ultra-processed foods.
- Reflux medications, the Oral Contraceptive Pill along with NSAIDs (Non
- Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) may contribute to nutritional deficiencies & gut inflammation exacerbating Hashimoto’s.
- Stabilising blood sugar levels.
- Optimising detoxification.
- Gentle overnight fasts may help improve intestinal permeability & immune dysfunction that aggravates Hashimoto’s.
Essential Nutrients & Herbs for Thyroid Function
Selenium is an important antioxidant that lowers thyroid antibodies, inflammation & TSH (which is elevated in hypothyroidism), along with assisting the conversion of T4 to T3.
Inositol is involved in the synthesis, storage & secretion of TSH, which supports thyroid function by aiding the conversion of T4 to T3. Inositol is beneficial in metabolic conditions by improving mitochondrial health & insulin sensitivity along with boosting neurotransmitters for anxiety, mood, PMS & insomnia.
Vitamin D3 is a common deficiency in autoimmune conditions.
Zinc is involved in conversion of T4 to T3.
Digestive Enzymes may help reduce reflux symptoms, support adequate breakdown & nutrient absorption.
Prebiotics & Polyphenols for gut repair.
Bacopa helps to increase T4.
Curcumin helps reduce inflammation.
Withania can help improve the production of T3 & T4.
Always seek help from a qualified healthcare practitioner who will assess your test results & advise the most appropriate treatment plan along with supplementation in the best form & at the safest dose.
By Bindi Sabadin
B.Nat SCU Naturopath
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