HYPOthyroidism and hashimoto’s thyroiditis

The thyroid gland produces two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which regulate how the body uses and stores energy, also known as the body's metabolism. Thyroid function is controlled by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain below the hypothalamus. The pituitary produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4.

Common symptoms of thyroid hormone deficiency or hypothyroidism include fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, muscle aches and pain, and menstrual irregularities. In most patients with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies are elevated.

Hypothyroidism is the most common form of thyroid dysfunction in women. It has been linked to PCOS, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and irregular, heavy, or missed periods.

Primary hypothyroidism is characterized by a high serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration and a low serum free thyroxine (T4) concentration. Patients with a high serum TSH concentration and a normal serum free T4 concentration may have subclinical hypothyroidism. Secondary (central) hypothyroidism is characterized by a low serum T4 concentration and a serum TSH concentration that is not appropriately elevated.

What causes hypothyroidism?

There are many factors, including genetic, immunologic, environmental, and nutritional causes.

Hypothyroidism is the most prevalent form of thyroid disease in the U.S., and the most common cause of hypothyroidism is chronic autoimmune thyroiditis or Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Normally, the immune system defends the body against foreign invaders to protect the body’s cells and prevent infection. Sometimes, the immune system attacks healthy cells, such as cells in the thyroid. This can be caused by several factors, such as a viral infection or an underlying disease like Celiac Disease. Increased intestinal permeability, or “leaky gut,” can trigger an autoimmune reaction by allowing gliadin proteins into the bloodstream.

Gluten sensitivity can also cause Hashimoto’s.

Tests for gluten sensitivity include:

Genetic blood test for gluten sensitivity (HLA DQ2 or HLA DQ8)

Gluten antibodies blood test (anti-gliadin IgG and IgA and tissue transglutaminase antibodies, TTG)

Untreated hypothyroidism can raise your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease. Hypothyroidism can also disrupt monthly periods and make it difficult to get pregnant. In pregnant females, hypothyroidism can cause problems and increase the risk of having a miscarriage.

What Labs Should I Request?

1. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test

2. Free T3

3. Free T4

4. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb)

5. Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb)

How can I keep MY thyroid gland healthy?

Foods high in:

• Iodine

• Zinc

• Tyrosine

• Selenium

• Vitamin D

Avoid:

1. Bromine (found in processed pastries, bread, etc.) *Used as a dough conditioner.

2. Fluoride (toothpaste, water)

*Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.