What is it?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a condition in which the thyroid gland is being attacked by one’s own immune system; hence the term autoimmune. When this happens the thyroid becomes inflamed and can ultimately becomes under active resulting in “hypothyroidism”. Hashimoto’s disorder is more common in middle-aged women than men and affects about 5 people in 100 in the US. If hypothyroidism is left untreated it could result in complication pregnancy, fatigue, depression, and joint pain. The condition sometimes runs in families and can affect men and children as well. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is also known as Hashimoto’s disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (Wartofsky, 2021).
Your susceptibility to developing Hashimoto’s disease increases if you have any other autoimmune disorder, if you are middle-aged, if you are a woman, or if you have a family history of Hashimoto’s disease (Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, n.d.).
What symptoms does this disease produce?
The thyroid gland produces hormones that control almost all metabolic functions in the body. Hashimoto's disease compromises the thyroid gland function to the point where thyroid hormone production is reduced therefore symptoms such as enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter), weight gain, changes in the texture of skin and hair, fatigue, joint pain, and muscle weakness, intolerance to cold temperature, depression, menstrual issues, constipation, and a slow heart rate manifest themselves (Hashimoto’s Disease, 2020).
What are some natural remedies for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Unfortunately conventional treatments will not stop the underlying culprit which is an autoimmune disorder. The synthetic hormones Synthroid is able to duplicate the hormone naturally made by the thyroid gland and does have similar effects of thyroid hormone but again the offending culprit goes unchecked.
That being said, consuming more healthy natural foods may be a good place to start. Specifically, avoiding fast food which has been known to cause significant inflammation and increase the risk for leaky gut syndrome. Fast food by definition has very low nutrients and often lacks iodize salt. Additionally, they are packed with vegetable oils like canola oil which are known inflammatory items. Other natural foods include seaweed which contains iodine to helped offset deficiencies. Probiotic such as kimchi and kefir may increase beneficial gut bacteria which traditionally supports the immune system. A sugar-free diet and selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, walnuts, tuna, etc., and taking vitamin B supplements may improve your overall outlook of health (Eisnaugle, 2020).
Finally consider also eliminating cow’s milk and increase vitamin D and calcium. Almost 90% of patients with Hashimoto’s disorder have a vitamin D deficiency. Some great natural sources of calcium include dark leafy green vegetables and cruciferous vegetables. Things like spinach, beets and kale are so great sources of calcium. Some fruits to consider include blackberries and raspberries which also offers a good dose of vitamin C.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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