#NoMeds: Helping Hashimoto’s

January 12, 2015

#NoMeds: Hashimoto’s & Your Thyroid

Do you know what causes an autoimmune challenge? From my experience, I have found the primary reason stems from poor digestion or a deficiency in a key nutrient, and this includes Hashimoto’s, a condition which impacts your thyroid gland.

I attended a seminar recently, and the panelist was presenting autoimmune problems in general terms. He said if an organ or gland does not have the key ingredients for proper function, the gland can break down. Your thyroid gland requires iodine and other co-factors like omega-3 oils, L-Tyrosine, minerals and proteins, and when one or more are deficient, it can result in your thyroid gland degenerating or “breaking down.” I find iodine deficiencies are very common today because of bromine, fluorine and chlorine compete for the same receptors and areas in cells, as does iodine.

When an organ starts to release dead or dying cells, the reticuloendothelial (say that ten times) system in your body, which is designed to vacuum up or dispose of the debris, goes into action. Your body is literally in a state of high alert with inflammation and pain. I have noticed in a scenario with the thyroid, an elevated TPO enzyme exam is the test I use to monitor care. We suggest selenium and vitamin E to support your thyroid to begin normal activity.

There are also different options regarding the use of iodine in the treatment of Hashimoto’s. I often look at other thyroid tests and then treat accordingly. If your T4 is low, I might suggest iodine; if your T3 is down, I support the conversion of T4 to T3.

Consuming gluten, I have found, interrupts the absorption of nutrients in your body, and practice members with elevated TPO levels tend to eat gluten with most of their meals. I have also discovered those to have chronic autoimmune problems might also have parasites. Parasites are often overlooked, which is quite scary. Common body signals of parasite involvement include grinding your teeth at night, waking up at 2 AM consistently, and craving sugar and yeast products.

At our practice, we supplement according to your entire thyroid profile, and may or may not supplement with iodine, if you have been using iodine already. I know there is a common thread of excessive sugar consumption, elevated estrogen and cortisol (stress hormone), initiating the process. I also notice autoimmune concerns with most organs or glands in women who might have just given birth, or had their second child within the past year or so. My suggestion is to eat a variety of organic, green food (kale, spinach, broccoli), minerals, and the proper oils. We use a variety of drugless exams including a mineral tissue analysis (hair), Bloodspot Fatty Acid profile, and saliva testing to create strategies for optimal glandular function.

For more information, you can visit us our two practices in the Cleveland region, read our #NoMeds paper on your thyroid, and browse our TSH, T3, T4 exam.