Understanding Hashimoto's Thyroiditis versus Hypothyroidism
Have you ever wondered why you feel off, despite seemingly doing everything right?
It might be your thyroid trying to tell you something.
Connecting the Dots:
Feeling tired all the time with poor concentration? Struggling to keep off those extra pounds, no matter how hard you try? Thinning of hair or feeling cold? These could be signs that your thyroid isn't functioning as it should. Understanding the symptoms is the first step towards finding answers and feeling better.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis:
Also simply known as Hashimotos. It's an autoimmune condition where your body mistakenly attacks your thyroid gland. This can lead to inflammation and a whole host of symptoms, from fatigue to weight gain. Genetic factors contribute to 70–80% of autoimmune thyroid diseases and environmental factors for about 20% to 30%. Blood tests are often the first step to look at TPO (thyroid peroxidase) and TGB (thyroglobulin) anti-bodies.
Hypothyroidism:
Affects 5% of the general population with a further 5% being undiagnosed. This thyroid condition slows down your body's metabolism, leaving you feeling sluggish and out of sorts. It is similar to Hashimoto symptoms but it’s not an autoimmune condition. Recognising the signs early on can put you on the path to feeling like yourself again.
Food for Thought:
Did you know that what you eat can impact your thyroid health? Although Hashimoto and Hypothyroidism will need different tweaks in the diet.
Some general thyroid-friendly foods are:
Seafood, particularly fatty fish like salmon and sardines: These fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation which can contribute to thyroid dysfunction.
Brazil nuts: These nuts are a fantastic source of selenium, a mineral that is essential for thyroid function.
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard: These greens are packed with nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium, all of which are important for thyroid health.
Berries: Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are loaded with antioxidants, which help protect the thyroid gland from damage caused by free radicals.
Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats: These grains provide complex carbohydrates and fibre, which help regulate blood sugar levels and support energy production. Stable blood sugar levels are important for maintaining balanced hormone levels, including thyroid hormones.
Nutrigenomics:
The Thyroid report is a useful tool to provide personalised insights into thyroid health. By examining genetic variations related to thyroid function and hormone synthesis, the report delivers targeted dietary advice, focusing on key nutrients like selenium, iodine, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Helps us optimise your treatment plan, to enhance your thyroid health and overall well-being.
See a sample Lifecode GX Thyroid Report.
References:
Chiovato, L. Magri, F. and Carlé, A. (2019). Hypothyroidism in context: where we’ve been and where we’re going. Advances in therapy, 36, pp.47-58.
Danailova, Y. Velikova, T. Nikolaev, G. et al. (2021). Nutritional Management of Thyroiditis of Hashimoto. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(9), 5144. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23095144
Wiersinga, W. M. (2016). Clinical Relevance of Environmental Factors in the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Thyroid Disease. Endocrinology and Metabolism, 31(2), 213-222. https://doi.org/10.3803/EnM.2016.31.2.213
Curious to learn more?
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