Caption: The thyroid is a gland located at the front of the neck in a butterfly-type shape.
With emerging research becoming more prevalent around Hashimoto’s disease, it leads many wanting to understand this condition in more depth. It is common to suffer underactive thyroid, but did you know this could be caused by an underlying autoimmune condition? Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune thyroid disorder, which is the leading cause of an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. This is thought to affect at least 8% of the population. Nutritionist James Pugh discusses further how to recognise symptoms of Hashimoto’s and support living with this autoimmune disease.
What is Hashimoto’s?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid disorder, thought to affect approximately 8% of the global population . It is the most common autoimmune thyroid disease and is characterised by the presence of thyroid autoantibodies. This disorder causes the immune system to attack the thyroid, causing the thyroid to produce too little hormone, known as hypothyroidism, of which Hashimoto’s is the main cause. This slows metabolism down, causing many symptoms like fatigue, depression and weight gain.
The thyroid is a gland located at the front of the neck in a butterfly-type shape. It is part of the endocrine system and releases hormones into the bloodstream which then help to regulate various body functions. Its main job is to control metabolism, meaning if thyroid function is impaired, then symptoms of hypothyroidism can become present.
Autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s disease and Grave’s disease often cause thyroid disease, while hypothyroidism itself is a condition of low thyroid hormone production. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed through blood tests measuring T4, T3 and TSH levels. T3 and T4 are thyroid hormones which regulate metabolism, while thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a pituitary hormone which controls the release of both T3 and T4. Hashimoto’s diagnosis requires antibody tests to confirm autoimmune activity.
What are the most obvious signs and symptoms of Hashimoto’s?
The signs and symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease are similar symptoms to the presence of hypothyroidism because of thyroid hormone deficiency . This can include dry skin, weight gain, hair loss, constipation, reduced cognitive function and decreased muscle function. Although it should be noted that some people display no symptoms at all or even present as a B12 deficiency, during it’s very early stages.
Another symptom caused by Hashimoto’s is goitre, which is the enlargement or swelling of the thyroid gland . This can result in a fullness sensation in the neck and lead to frequent throat clearing, discomfort swallowing and hoarseness, all of which affect quality of life . When the thyroid is being attacked, it can sometimes cause short-term hyperthyroidism, while the thyroid tries to compensate. Although this is temporary and is followed by the hypothyroid state.
What factors can trigger Hashimoto’s?
It is thought factors like sex, age and genetics can increase the chance of having Hashimoto’s. For example, it affects women 7-10 times more often than men, with prevalence increasing with age, especially for those with a family history of Hashimoto’s or those diagnosed with other autoimmune conditions.
Obesity may also exacerbate the progression and severity of Hashimoto’s. Other dietary factors like excessive iodine intake can worsen Hashimoto’s thyroiditis symptoms, by increasing oxidative stress within thyroid cells.
Micronutrient deficiencies can also worsen Hashimoto’s. Research has shown that deficiency in some micronutrients like selenium, iron, copper, magnesium, vitamin B12 and vitamin D, can result in a higher risk of Hashimoto’s disease. Lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive alcohol intake also impact the thyroid. Whilst environmental factors like stress, infection and radiation exposure can also trigger Hashimoto’s disease.
How can supplements help?
There are several nutrients which are linked with supporting Hashimoto’s disease. On top of a balanced diet, supplementation may be useful to avoid any nutrient gaps or deficiencies.
Curcumin is the active ingredient found in turmeric known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. This has shown to be effective for reducing inflammatory markers and useful for patients with Hashimoto’s disease, alongside an anti-inflammatory diet . Boswellia and Ginger are other alternatives for helping to reduce inflammation in the body, ultimately supporting thyroid hormone function.
Magnesium can be a beneficial supplement for those suffering with Hashimoto’s. Magnesium deficiency is common, often causing side effects such as fatigue and impaired muscle function, which are known to be heightened by hypothyroidism. Magnesium is responsible for over 300 bodily processes and therefore may be useful as a ‘spark of life’ for those suffering with this autoimmune condition.
Many studies have demonstrated that there is a link between Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D deficiency and thyroid diseases. It has been shown that these deficiencies cause anti-thyroid antibody levels to increase in the body, which affects the function of the thyroid in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s disease . Supplementing these nutrients can help to prevent deficiency and improve thyroid function.
Live bacteria can also help to manage inflammation in the gut. The gut is central to regulating hormones, enhancing nutrient absorption and supporting overall wellbeing.
Omega oils are another way of helping manage inflammation in the body. These provide essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 which are important regulators of cellular function and inflammation in the body, offering benefits for thyroid function .
Iron is an essential mineral for those suffering with hypothyroidism. Research suggests that with this condition, erythropoietic activity is reduced, which can result in anaemia. So, iron supplementation may be suitable for hypothyroid patients in response to this. Iron also contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, which are symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease.
Iodine is known to play a crucial role in supporting function of the thyroid gland and synthesis of thyroid hormones. There is a U-shaped relationship between iodine and thyroid disorders, with too little and too much iodine intake causing an increased risk of thyroid disease . Much like iodine, Selenium is another vital trace element which also plays a crucial role in metabolism of thyroid hormones.
Taking nutrients like iodine and selenium, may not be suitable for those with Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, as they have the potential to exacerbate this condition. However, for those suffering from non-Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, these nutrients can be supportive, so understanding the difference between the cause of hypothyroidism is key. Discussing with a GP or nutritionist may help to understand this further.
It is also important to be aware that some nutrients can stimulate immune system activity, which may exacerbate autoimmune diseases . So, nutrients such as vitamin D and vitamin C should be taken with caution, despite potentially offering benefits to Hashimoto’s patients.
What lifestyle changes can help to manage Hashimoto’s?
Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism can be supported through a Mediterranean-style diet which consists of wholefoods that are rich in fibre and with anti-inflammatory properties. Foods such plant oils, nuts, seeds, fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables have been shown to support thyroid health .
Incorporating fibre-rich and low-fat foods can help to promote digestion, reduce inflammation and improve the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This has a link with supporting thyroid function, known as the gut-thyroid axis, aiming to slow down the progress of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis .
Previous research has also shown that a gluten-free diet can be beneficial to Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune conditions. Results have displayed positive effects for gluten deprivation in the diet and its impact on thyroid function and inflammation . It is also recommended to limit ultra-processed foods and alcohol, which are both known to impact thyroid function and exacerbate symptoms.
Stress can disrupt thyroid function, due to elevated cortisol levels interfering with the production of TSH and the conversion of T4 to T3. This slows metabolism down and contributes to a state of hypothyroidism. Adopting calming techniques like yoga, meditation and reading can be useful to manage these emotions and feelings of stress. Regular exercise is also a way of help to manage weight, energy levels and cognitive function in those with Hashimoto’s alongside a healthy diet.
Conclusion
When looking at supplements, choose ones that are free from artificial additives and fillers and contain active ingredients. For more information about diet, supplements and lifestyle advice, visit your Local Independent Health Food Store. To find your nearest one, visit www.findahealthstore.com.
Author: James Pugh, BSc, is a Nutrition Advisor at Viridian Nutrition. He holds a BSc honours degree in Sport & Exercise Nutrition
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