Hashimoto Disease Naturopath
Hi I’m Leah, a naturopath and nutritionist, and I’m thrilled to share some insights with you about Hashimoto’s disease.
Living with Graves’ disease myself, I understand the complexities of autoimmune disorders. 
Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is one such condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
I want to shed some light on this often misunderstood condition and offer some natural approaches to managing its symptoms.
Understanding Hashimoto Disease:
Hashimoto disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and gradual destruction of thyroid tissue.
This results in an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, depression, and sensitivity to cold.
It’s crucial to note that managing Hashimoto’s involves more than just taking thyroid medication; lifestyle and dietary choices play a significant role in symptom management.
Nourishing Your Body:
One of the fundamental aspects of managing Hashimoto disease naturally is through proper nutrition.
A balanced and nutrient-dense diet can help support your immune system and reduce inflammation.
Incorporate whole, organic foods into your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, can help combat oxidative stress and support thyroid health.
The Gluten Connection:
Many individuals with Hashimoto disease report improvements in their symptoms after eliminating gluten from their diet.
Gluten, found in wheat, barley, and rye, can trigger an autoimmune response in some people.
Click here to find out what foods have gluten in them?
Going gluten-free might not be necessary for everyone, but it’s worth trying to see if it makes a difference for you. Focus on gluten-free grains like quinoa, brown rice, and gluten-free oats.
Balancing Stress:
Stress management is vital for anyone with an autoimmune disorder.
Chronic stress can exacerbate inflammation and worsen symptoms. Incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises.
Prioritising self-care and taking time for activities you enjoy can significantly impact your overall well-being.
Supporting Gut Health:
Did you know that your gut health is closely linked to your immune system?
A balanced and diverse gut microbiome can help regulate the immune response. Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables in your diet.
Additionally, consider taking a high-quality probiotic supplement to support your gut health further.
Treatment of Hashimoto disease,
The most common medication prescribed for Hashimoto disease is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). Levothyroxine helps to normalize thyroid hormone levels in the body.
It’s crucial for individuals taking levothyroxine to be regularly monitored by a healthcare provider. Blood tests are typically done to measure thyroid hormone levels and adjust the dosage as needed.
Aside from levothyroxine, some individuals with Hashimoto’s disease might also be prescribed liothyronine (T3) in combination with levothyroxine.
Liothyronine is another thyroid hormone that can help manage symptoms, especially if there are issues with converting T4 to T3 in the body. However, this is less common and requires careful monitoring due to the narrower therapeutic range of T3.
It’s important to note that medication management and potential side effects can vary from person to person.
Individuals with Hashimoto’s disease should not self-adjust their medication dosage without consulting their healthcare provider, as it can lead to serious health complications.
Herbal and Nutritional Supplements:
Herbal and nutritional supplements can be taken with medications. Thus providing a holistic treatment plan. Certain herbs and supplements have shown promise in supporting thyroid health and reducing inflammation.
Selenium, for example, is a mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid function and can be taken as a supplement. Herbs like ashwagandha and turmeric possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help manage autoimmune-related symptoms.
Remember, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplements into your routine, as they can interact with medications or existing health conditions.
Make an appointment with me now at my North Gosford clinic or on Video Link
Living with Hashimoto’s disease can present challenges, but with the right approach, it’s possible to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
As a fellow autoimmune warrior, I encourage you to explore natural and holistic strategies in conjunction with medical care.
Looking for an overview of autoimmune disorders or other conditions Leah can help you with.