The number of “Hashi Moms” (the cool name if you are in this not so fun group now!) is growing everyday.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck, is responsible for regulating metabolism, energy production, and hormone balance. When Hashimoto’s causes inflammation and damage to the thyroid, it can result in insufficient hormone production, leading to a variety of health issues.
Causes of Hashimoto’s
The exact cause of Hashimoto’s isn’t fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors seems to play a role. Genetics may predispose individuals to autoimmune diseases, but triggers such as chronic stress, infections, pregnancy, or even exposure to environmental toxins can spark the condition. Hormonal imbalances, especially in women, can also increase the risk, as Hashimoto’s is more common among women than men.
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can vary widely, depending on the severity of thyroid hormone deficiency.
Our eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R. Co-Founder, Kerry Brown, actually had a partial thyroidectomy, and so while she has not been diagnosed with Hashi’s (our fave and shorter name for it!), she has experienced must all of these symptoms as well.
Common signs include:
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Dry skin and hair
• Sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Joint and muscle pain
• Depression or mood swings
• Memory issues
• Slow heart rate
Because these symptoms are often subtle and overlap with other conditions, Hashimoto’s can be difficult to diagnose.
Medications for Hashimoto’s
The standard treatment for Hashimoto’s is thyroid hormone replacement therapy, most commonly in the form of synthetic levothyroxine (e.g., Synthroid). This medication helps restore normal thyroid hormone levels, alleviating symptoms like fatigue and weight gain. In some cases, a combination of synthetic T3 and T4 or desiccated thyroid (animal-derived thyroid hormone) may be used.
The Growing Role of Food in Managing Hashimoto’s
In recent years, even many western doctors are embracing the idea of “food as medicine” for managing Hashimoto’s, alongside traditional treatments. Emerging research suggests that diet can influence autoimmune diseases, and some patients have even experienced remission or significant symptom improvement by modifying their diet.
A key component of dietary changes involves removing inflammatory foods that can exacerbate autoimmune conditions. Common culprits include:
• Gluten
• Dairy
• Refined sugars and processed foods
• Soy
• Nightshades (e.g., tomatoes, peppers, eggplant)
Many practitioners recommend the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet, which eliminates these inflammatory foods while focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory options like grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, non-starchy vegetables, and fermented foods. The AIP diet is designed to reduce gut inflammation, enhance immune function, and support thyroid health, providing a holistic approach to managing Hashimoto’s.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a complex condition that requires both medical and lifestyle management. While thyroid hormone replacement is critical, diet also plays a vital role in controlling inflammation and supporting the immune system. By adopting a targeted approach to food and reducing inflammatory triggers, many individuals find relief and even experience remission of their symptoms, making diet an essential part of the healing process.
We know first hand that removing all of these inflammatory foods can be frustrating and isolating. That’s why we created eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R.! Here’s some favorite customer baking mixes - all of which are 100% AIP compliant and free of the top 14 food allergens:
