Nel, Author at Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

The Connection Between Leaky Gut and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, leading to a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and mood disturbances. While its exact cause remains unclear, recent research has shed light on the link between Hashimoto’s and a condition known as “leaky gut.” In this article, we’ll explore what leaky gut is, its potential role in the development of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, and how managing gut health may help individuals with this autoimmune thyroid disorder.

Understanding Leaky Gut

Leaky gut, scientifically known as increased intestinal permeability, is a condition that occurs when the lining of the small intestine becomes compromised, allowing substances that should stay in the digestive tract to leak into the bloodstream. The gut lining, primarily composed of tight junctions, acts as a barrier to regulate the passage of nutrients and prevent harmful substances from entering the body.

However, various factors can damage these tight junctions, including:

Poor diet: Consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and artificial additives can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and weaken the gut lining.
Chronic stress: Prolonged stress can lead to inflammation in the gut, contributing to increased permeability.
Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics, may affect gut health.
Environmental toxins: Exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants can have adverse effects on the gut lining.

The Link Between Leaky Gut and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Researchers have found a potential connection between leaky gut and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. While the exact mechanism is still being investigated, several factors suggest how these two conditions may be related:

Immune system dysfunction: Leaky gut can trigger an immune system response as foreign substances leak into the bloodstream. This constant activation of the immune system may lead to an autoimmune response, where the body mistakenly attacks its thyroid gland, as seen in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.
Molecular mimicry: Some substances that enter the bloodstream due to leaky gut might resemble thyroid tissue. This similarity can confuse the immune system and lead it to attack both the invading substances and the thyroid gland.
Inflammation: Leaky gut is associated with chronic inflammation, which can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s.
Nutrient absorption: A compromised gut lining can impair the absorption of essential nutrients, including selenium and zinc, which are crucial for thyroid function. Deficiencies in these nutrients may exacerbate Hashimoto’s symptoms.

Managing Leaky Gut to Support Thyroid Health

If you have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and suspect that you may also have leaky gut or want to prevent it, consider the following strategies:

Dietary changes: Adopt a diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Minimize or eliminate processed foods, gluten, and dairy, as they can contribute to gut inflammation.
Gut-friendly supplements: Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes may help restore gut health and balance the gut microbiome.
Stress management: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to lower stress levels and minimize gut inflammation.
Identify and treat underlying conditions: Address any food sensitivities, allergies, or infections that may be contributing to leaky gut.
Medication management: Consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate whether any medications you are taking could be affecting your gut health and discuss potential alternatives.

While the connection between leaky gut and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is still a subject of ongoing research, there is evidence to suggest that gut health plays a role in autoimmune thyroid disorders. By taking steps to support a healthy gut, individuals with Hashimoto’s may find relief from their symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on managing your thyroid health and gut issues.

The Role of Diet in Managing Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and eventual thyroid hormone deficiency. While medication is a standard treatment for this condition, there’s growing interest in how diet can play a role in managing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and alleviating its symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between diet and Hashimoto’s and provide practical dietary tips for managing the condition.

Understanding Hashimoto’s and Diet

It’s important to clarify that there’s no specific “Hashimoto’s diet” that can cure the condition. However, the foods you eat can have a significant impact on how you feel and how your thyroid functions. Here are some dietary considerations for managing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:

1. Gluten and Hashimoto’s

Some studies suggest a connection between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and gluten sensitivity. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Research indicates that individuals with Hashimoto’s may benefit from a gluten-free diet. Gluten sensitivity can trigger inflammation in the gut, potentially exacerbating autoimmune responses in people with Hashimoto’s.

If you suspect gluten sensitivity, consider trying a gluten-free diet for a few months. Monitor your symptoms and consult with a healthcare professional to assess whether it makes a difference for you.

2. Selenium-Rich Foods

Selenium is a trace mineral that plays a crucial role in thyroid function. It is a component of enzymes that help convert T4 (thyroxine) into the more active T3 (triiodothyronine) hormone. Including selenium-rich foods like Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and fish in your diet may support thyroid health. However, it’s essential not to overdo it, as excessive selenium intake can be harmful.

3. Iodine Intake

Iodine is another essential mineral for thyroid function. While iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism, excessive iodine intake can worsen autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto’s. It’s crucial to strike a balance. Most people in developed countries get enough iodine through their regular diets, so supplementing with iodine is generally not recommended unless advised by a healthcare professional.

4. Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds known as goitrogens, which can interfere with thyroid function when consumed in large amounts. However, cooking these vegetables can reduce the goitrogenic effects. Most people with Hashimoto’s can safely include moderate amounts of cooked cruciferous vegetables in their diets.

5. Nutrient-Rich Foods

A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients is essential for overall health and can support your immune system. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your meals to ensure you’re getting essential vitamins and minerals.

6. Food Sensitivities

In addition to gluten, some individuals with Hashimoto’s may have sensitivities to other foods, such as dairy or soy. Pay attention to how your body responds to different foods, and consider an elimination diet or food sensitivity testing to identify potential triggers.

7. Consult a Registered Dietitian

Every person with Hashimoto’s is unique, and dietary needs can vary. Consulting a registered dietitian who specializes in thyroid disorders can be immensely helpful. They can work with you to create a personalized diet plan that takes into account your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

While diet alone cannot cure Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, it can play a crucial role in managing the condition and improving your overall well-being. Experimenting with dietary changes under the guidance of a healthcare professional or dietitian can help you identify foods that make you feel better and reduce symptoms. Remember that managing Hashimoto’s is a holistic approach, and medication prescribed by your healthcare provider remains a cornerstone of treatment.

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Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis vs. Hypothyroidism: What’s the Difference?

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism are two related but distinct thyroid disorders that often get mentioned together. Both conditions can affect the thyroid gland and lead to similar symptoms, such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. However, they have different causes, diagnostic processes, and long-term implications. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism to help you better understand these conditions.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: An Autoimmune Disorder

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. This chronic inflammation gradually damages the thyroid, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones, namely thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). This condition is more common in women than in men and tends to run in families.

Hypothyroidism: A General Thyroid Hormone Deficiency

Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to an underactive thyroid gland, regardless of the underlying cause. It can result from various factors, with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis being one of the leading causes. Other causes of hypothyroidism may include thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, medications, or congenital issues.

Diagnosis: How They Differ

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Diagnosis: To diagnose Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, doctors often perform blood tests to measure levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and specific antibodies like anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (TG). Elevated levels of these antibodies, along with an elevated TSH and low T4, indicate Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Hypothyroidism Diagnosis: For hypothyroidism, the diagnosis is generally based on TSH levels alone. Elevated TSH levels are a clear sign of an underactive thyroid. Doctors may also consider measuring free T4 levels to determine the severity of the condition.

Symptoms Overlap

One reason Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism are often confused is their shared symptoms. Both conditions can lead to:

Fatigue
Weight gain
Cold intolerance
Dry skin and hair
Constipation
Depression and mood changes
Muscle weakness
Joint pain

These symptoms can make it challenging to distinguish between the two without proper testing.

Treatment

Treatment for both conditions typically involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy, such as levothyroxine. The goal is to restore thyroid hormone levels to normal and relieve symptoms. However, there are some differences in the approach:

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: In Hashimoto’s, treatment focuses on managing the autoimmune response and preventing further damage to the thyroid gland. This often requires lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Hypothyroidism: When hypothyroidism is caused by factors other than autoimmune disease, such as surgery or medications, treatment may not need to address the autoimmune aspect. In such cases, the treatment goal is simply to provide the body with the necessary thyroid hormones.

Long-Term Outlook

Both Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism can be managed effectively with medication. With proper treatment, most individuals can lead normal, healthy lives. However, it’s important to note that Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a lifelong autoimmune condition that may require more vigilant monitoring.

Conclusion

In summary, while Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism share some common symptoms, they have distinct causes and diagnostic processes. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system’s attack on the thyroid gland, whereas hypothyroidism is a broader term encompassing an underactive thyroid gland due to various causes. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help individuals with these conditions lead fulfilling lives, but it’s crucial to understand the differences to receive the right care. If you suspect you have thyroid issues, consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Top 5 Struggles People With Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Have While Working

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, causing it to become inflamed and unable to produce enough hormones. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating. For people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, working a job can be a real challenge. Here are the top five struggles that people with this condition may face:

Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is fatigue. This can make it difficult to get up in the morning and have the energy to work a full day. People with this condition may find themselves needing to take frequent breaks or feeling exhausted by the end of the workday.
Difficulty concentrating: Another common symptom of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is difficulty concentrating. This can make it difficult to focus on work tasks and complete them efficiently. It may also lead to forgetfulness, which can be frustrating for both the individual with the condition and their coworkers.
Mood changes: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can also cause mood changes, including depression and anxiety. These mood changes can make it difficult to deal with the stresses of work and interact with coworkers and supervisors.
Workplace accommodations: People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may need accommodations in the workplace to help them manage their condition. This could include things like flexible work schedules, extra breaks, or the ability to work from home. It can be challenging to navigate the process of requesting and receiving these accommodations, and some people may be hesitant to do so out of fear of discrimination or stigma.
Finding the right treatment: Finding the right treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can be a struggle. This may involve trying different medications and doses to find the one that works best. It can be frustrating and time-consuming, and it may take a while to find the right treatment plan.

Overall, working a job with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can be a challenging experience. However, with proper treatment and accommodations, it is possible to manage the condition and have a successful career.

5 Symptoms of Thyroid Issues In Women

The thyroid is a very important gland in your body. It basically controls every single cell, from your digestive system to your reproduction system. When it malfunctions, it can make your life miserable. While most Hashimoto’s patients typically suffer dozens of symptoms, there are five major symptoms of thyroid issues in women that can alert you that your thyroid is not working as it should.

These symptoms are caused by an underactive thyroid that is not releasing enough thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) for your body to function properly. The condition is called hypothyroidism and most hypothyroidism cases are tied to the autoimmune disease Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. For more information on what the thyroid is and how it works, check out my article, “What is the Thyroid?”.

Before we discuss those 5 pesky symptoms, I’d like to remind you that if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to talk to your doctor about treatment. They will help you come up with a treatment plan to lessen or relieve these thyroid symptoms.

5 Symptoms of Thyroid Issues In Women

Weight Gain

When your thyroid is underactive, it slows your metabolism down. The end result is weight gain. It doesn’t matter if you stick to the perfect diet and exercise plan, you can still gain weight because your metabolism is working against you.

This can be very distressing, to work hard at losing or keeping the weight off and seeing no results. I’ve experienced that, as I’m sure many of you have as well. Once my doctor adjusted my medication and my TSH levels returned to normal (I do best between 1 and 2), I was able to make progress on weight loss.

If your doctor is able to help you get to healthy TSH levels and you’re still experiencing weight gain, you may want to review your diet and exercise plan with your doctor. Additionally, you may want to find a functional medicine doctor to discover the root cause of your weight gain and address it.

Cold Intolerance

Cold intolerance is often one of those symptoms of thyroid issues in women that flies under the radar because many don’t realize it’s connected to their thyroid. They brush it off as just the way their body works. The thyroid functions similarly to a thermostat and when the thermostat goes wonky, you’ll have problems maintaining a correct temperature.

There have been times when the thermostat was at a comfortable 74 degrees Fahrenheit at work and I was wearing a winter jacket. Sometimes, it was so bad, I’d go into the thermal room, set at a balmy 104 degrees, with my winter jacket on and drink hot coffee for ten minutes. Yeah, that’s a major sign something’s wrong.

Many times, if you’re suffering from cold intolerance, you’ll find if you take your temperature that it is lower than the normal 98.6. When I’m severely hypothyroid, my temperature is often in the 97s.

Because of this cold intolerance, people suffering from hypothyroidism are at risk for hypothermia, so take precautions. Bundle up if you’re cold or adjust the thermostat to a more comfortable level, if you can.

Hair Loss

Hair loss or hair thinning can be one of the most distressing symptoms of thyroid issues in women. Seeing large clumps of hair come off in the shower or in your hair brush can be disconcerting.

Quite often, once TSH levels return to normal with proper treatment, hair issues resolve, though that might not always be the case. If you still suffer from hair loss at that point, it may be another issue, like iron deficiency or menopause, and you should talk to your doctor.

Irregular Periods

A lot of women are diagnosed with hypothyroidism later in life. In fact, my mother wasn’t diagnosed until her mid-forties. At that time of life, irregular periods can be a possible sign of menopause. But, it can also be a sign of thyroid problems. It would be best not to assume and get your thyroid checked out if your periods are irregular.

Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the symptoms of thyroid issues that you just can’t ignore and one I’ve struggled with a lot. There’s nothing worse than wanting, or having, to do things and not having the energy to do them. We’re not talking about feeling a little tired. We’re talking about overwhelmingly low energy, like the inability to get out of bed, that a good rest won’t make go away.

This is a clear sign that there’s something wrong with your thyroid. When experiencing this symptom, you should request a TSH test, Free T4 test, and Free T3 test from your doctor or endocrinologist. Your TSH is likely high and your meds need a dosage adjustment.

In Conclusion

We hope this article helped you recognize the 5 symptoms of thyroid issues in women and provided you information to help you talk to your doctor about your concerns. If you found this article helpful, please share it with others you think might benefit from it.

If you’d like to learn more about Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, its root causes, and how to treat it, check out “Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Lifestyle Interventions for Finding and Treating the Root Cause” by Dr. Isabella Wentz. The knowledge in that book has impacted my life positively and I hope it will yours as well.

Hashimoto’s and Stress: The Kryptonite To My Thyroid

Sometimes it seems like no matter what you do or how well you take care of yourself, stress can undo all of the good, healthy things you’ve done. Hashimoto’s and stress do not play well together.

I was doing well last year. I started taking Selenium, which brought my antibodies down from over 1300 to just over 400. I was no longer in constant, daily pain. I could walk for miles and workout without fearing I’d be unable to get out of bed the next day. I lost 38 pounds. I felt like I could do anything. And then came November…

Work was super stressful. I was on tight deadlines with too much to do and so little time to do it. I put in a lot of overtime in November and December. And all the stress made me sick and threw me into Hashi’s hell. It’s May and I still haven’t recovered. Even with an increase in my thyroid medication, my TSH went from 4.7 to 9.7 in the last two months. The stress has only gotten worse and, despite all the meditating and attempts at stress reduction, I’m more sick than ever. As I write this, I’m just getting over my umpteenth cold of the year, I’ve gained about 10 pounds because my metabolism has slowed down so much, and I’m freezing my patootie off under a heavy blanket because I’m full-blown hypothyroid. In addition, I hurt… a LOT, back spasms and costochondritis. Fun. In short, I’m a mess.

I asked my doctor to not only test my TSH, but Free T3, Free T4, and Reverse T3. TSH was high, of course, but Free T3 and Free T4 were normal. It was the Reverse T3 that showed the real story. My Reverse T3 was elevated. It was 31 when high end of the normal range is 24. There are many reasons Reverse T3 can be elevated and stress is one of them. I’m pretty sure that’s the case here!

Normally, when my Hashimoto’s is well treated and under control, I’m smart, fairly confident, strong, and as some folks have said, “very zen”. When I’m in Hashi’s hell, I feel the opposite: stupid, insecure, anxiety-ridden, weak, and not in control of my emotions at all. Returning to good health is my number one priority right now. It’s a struggle. How do you get better when the trigger, stress, that contributed to your illness hasn’t been removed or is hard to remove? I’m battling with that right now. I don’t want to take medical leave, but I may have to if I don’t get better.

One goal I have, which seems so remote right now because I’m so ill, is to be able to run my own business from home. That would be an ideal situation. But right now, it’s all I can do to just take care of myself and stay barely functional…

Yoga For Overweight Beginners

In addition to getting my Hashimoto’s into remission, I am working on improving my overall health. If you suffer from Hashimoto’s, it’s very likely that you’re a bit overweight like I am, so I’m sure you know where I’m coming from. My brother and sister both do yoga, so I was inspired to try it. I looked up yoga for beginners on YouTube. The video I tried, either the person doesn’t know what I mean by “beginner” or there is another category below beginner that I just don’t know about. Haha! So, I quickly went back to searching, this time on “yoga for overweight beginners”. Jackpot!

I found a video (that’ll I’ll share below) that really fit my idea of “yoga for overweight beginners”. The lady in the video was much more overweight than I am and was recovering from a knee injury. That really motivated me, because if she can do it, I can do it, right? She made it clear she was not an “expert”, but was sharing her modifications she’s made to allow her to continue to become more flexible and fit. She kept mentioning her pants didn’t fit well because she’d lost so much weight. Bonus!

The instructor not only shared the modifications she made, but she made it entertaining to boot. I appreciated the fact that she didn’t seem self-conscious at all and really put herself out there in order to help others struggling like she had. Honestly, I’m not that confident yet to put myself out there like her, but I’ll get there. I’ve subscribed to her channel. If you find her videos helpful, please subscribe to her channel too and/or leave some comments. She also runs a plus size yoga support group for those that are interested.

And now, without further ado…

Yoga For Overweight Beginners

If this post has helped you, please leave a comment below and let me know so I’ll post more things like this. If you know someone else this post might help, please share it on social media!

Brain Fog: What is it and what can you do about it?

Brain Fog

Brain fog is the term used to describe the feeling of confusion and inability to concentrate or focus your thoughts despite your best efforts. It’s like living in a haze or fog. There are other neurological symptoms that accompany it, such as depression, cognitive issues, memory loss, searching for words, and anxiety. Brain fog is an indication that you have inflammation in your brain caused by the immune cells, called microglia, in your brain. Thyroid hormone can help keep these cells in check, which is why brain fog often lessens if you’re well treated with thyroid hormone replacement.

I work in the technology sector where I regularly have to deal with highly technical concepts. Normally, I’m an overachiever, highly motivated, and I know I’m smart. Right now, I don’t feel smart. I’m exhausted, I’m not motivated in the least, I’m lucky I remember my own name let alone events from 5 minutes ago, and highly technical concepts fly right over my head. That is Hashimoto’s brain fog and I hate it. I can deal with the exhaustion and I can deal with most of the other symptoms, but I have a difficult time dealing with the brain fog. When my brain isn’t functioning right, it’s hard to do my job right. I struggle to keep up with everyone else. That’s stressful because my family is depending on me. And stress doesn’t help matters any.

Depression

As a result of this brain fog, I know I’m suffering some low-level depression. Fortunately, I know what’s going on and can take steps to mitigate my issues, but many people suffering from Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism don’t. Some of them aren’t even diagnosed yet. In fact, many people are misdiagnosed with mental illness, when simply treating the thyroid properly will help. Many women in my family know this from personal experience, anti-depressants don’t help this.

Cognitive Issues

There are times when Hashimoto’s brain fog can make you feel like you’re losing your mind. You forget things easily or find it hard to remember things you should know. You can’t find words, even common ones, and you find yourself pausing to think of them. The cognitive issues from brain fog can even prevent you from understanding concepts you normally wouldn’t have a problem with.

How To Treat Brain Fog

There are several theories about what contributes to brain fog. Some experts say leaky gut leads to leaky brain. Other factors include chronic stress (yeah, I know all about that!), poor diet, insulin resistance, and untreated or poorly treated autoimmune disease. So, how does one treat brain fog effectively?

Well, the two main objectives are making sure your thyroid is well treated and reducing your brain inflammation. Request thyroid labs from your doctor, including Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and antithyroid antibodies. If your TSH is above 3 and you’re having a lot of symptoms, work with your doctor to get it between 1-2. Many Hashimoto’s patients report feeling best in that range. My doctor has upped my thyroid medication dosage and my TSH is slowly coming back within what I call the “sweet spot”. Nutrition is important. I am trying (not always succeeding) to eat better to support my gut health and, in addition, my brain health. Going gluten free reportedly helps autoimmune sufferers reduce inflammation and antibodies. Getting a good night’s sleep gives your body the time to repair and renew itself.

What has seemed to work best to battle my brain fog was asking my endocrinologist to try a T3 medication (such as Cytomel). Some Hashimoto’s patients have trouble absorbing or converting their T4 medication (Synthroid, Levothyroxine, etc) and I suspected I was one of them. After reviewing my lab work, my doctor agreed, and the fog has almost completely lifted.

Taking Action

One of the things I have promised myself this year is to take charge of my health. That includes educating myself on Hashimoto’s, breaking bad habits, adopting healthy habits, and making self-care my priority. And since I am a perfectionist and overachiever, I’m learning to cut myself some slack when I’m not perfect or just not productive.

As part of my education, I’m reading a LOT more. I’ve just ordered “Why Isn’t My Brain Working?: A Revolutionary Understanding of Brain Decline and Effective Strategies to Recover Your Brain’s Health” by Dr. Datis Kharrazian. He was one of the very knowledgeable experts in The Thyroid Secret documentary. In addition, Dr. Izabella Wentz’s new book “Hashimoto’s Protocol: A 90-Day Plan for Reversing Thyroid Symptoms and Getting Your Life Back” just came out! I’m reading it, too. I’m going to educate myself and take action. I hope you’re educating yourself and getting your life back, too!

If this post helped you or know someone else it will help, please share!

The Thyroid Secret: The Truth About Toxins

“The Truth About Toxins” is the fourth episode in The Thyroid Secret documentary. This episode discusses the big impact that toxins in our environment have on our thyroids and thyroid disease. It is estimated that we come in contact with over 80,000 different toxic chemicals every day in such things as food, makeup products, and our cars. That was quite a shocking statistic to hear.

Our thyroid, which is programmed to take in nutrients, instead starts taking in toxins we’re exposed to, making us sick. Possibly even triggering autoimmune disease. When toxins enter our body, our cells go into danger mode, slowing or even shutting down to protect the body. Nowhere has this been more evident than in the Ukraine in the aftermath of the Chernobyl nuclear accident. Studies have shown that nearly 80% of the children in the area have developed thyroid problems. And there is an epidemic of thyroid cancer around Fukushima, as well.

Dr. Wentz mentions several of the different common, every day toxins we come in contact with, some you wouldn’t even suspect. They include plastic bottles, dental amalgams, fire retardants, parabens, thalates, pesticides, off-gasing of bromine from new cars. Even some of our food contains toxins. Dr. Wentz states that high fructose corn syrup can contain mercury and rice is high in cadmium and arsenic.

Several suggestions are given to help detoxify the body of specific toxins. Cilantro oil and selenium can both detoxify the body of mercury. Liver detoxification can help with chemical sensitivities. Other suggested therapies include milkthistle and infra red sauna. (Always talk to your doctor before starting any sort of detox!)

This episode, “The Truth About Toxins”, was eye opening. I never realized just how many toxins we are subjected to on a daily basis. If you’re concerned about how toxins in your environment are affecting your Hashimoto’s, you definitely must watch this episode.

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The Thyroid Secret: Unknown Thyroid Therapies

“Unknown Thyroid Therapies” was the episode that really started to dive deep into the details of what can help heal your thyroid disease. I got a lot out of this episode and am planning on implementing many of the treatments suggested, provided I can get my doctor on board for some of them.

Dr. Wentz has done a lot of research on sites such as PubMed and has discussed innovative treatments with experts in various medical fields. A lot of this research is not publicized and as the name of the documentary alludes, it remains a secret to those who need it the most. She reveals many of them in this episode.

Most doctors simply prescribe Synthroid or Levothyroxine to treat Hashimoto’s. And that may help many people with Hashimoto’s. But many people continue to have annoying symptoms even on thyroid replacement. For those people, it would be beneficial to determine if they have trouble converting T4 to T3. If they do have trouble, the addition of T3 (Cytomel, etc) may improve Hashimoto’s symptoms.

One of the most interesting unknown thyroid therapies that is currently being studied is low dose naltrexone (LDN). Low dose Naltrexone helps to balance the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in the gut. It essentially turns off the cells that cause autoimmunity. The great thing is that there are very few side effects to this treatment. Dr. Wentz goes into great detail about how it works. This treatment, of course, requires a prescription from your doctor. This is one I’m going to explore with my endocrinologist! If you want to try it, you’ll have to coordinate closely with your doctor as well. As you heal, your regular dosage of thyroid hormone may cause you to go hyperthyroid, so you’ll need dosage adjustments.

Dr. Wentz is a big proponent of Functional Medicine.Throughout the documentary, Dr. Wentz interviewed many practitioners of Functional Medicine. It is a medical discipline that addresses the underlying causes of disease instead of just treating the symptoms. It involves treating the real causes instead of putting band aids on the problem. If your current doctor is not helping you to treat the root cause of your disease, a doctor that practices functional medicine may be a good option.

Other briefly discussed topics in this episode include stem cell research and low level laser therapy. This episode alone made watching the documentary worth it. I now have a plan of attack to get my Hashimoto’s into remission and I’ll be referring back to this episode often.

We hope this summary has helped you and given you some information to use on your own journey to remission.

If you have found the information in this post helpful, please share it and spread the word!