Hashimoto's: Diagnosis, Symptoms, Diet and Supplements

It occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to gradual damage and ultimately to hypothyroidism. Hashimoto's disease can affect various aspects of health, causing a range of bothersome symptoms.

Diagnostics:

Diagnosing Hashimoto's disease requires a comprehensive approach and many tests.

Key studies include:

Blood tests:

• Measuring the levels of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), FT4 (free thyroxine) and FT3 (free triiodothyronine) helps assess thyroid function.

• The presence of anti-TPO antibodies (antibodies against thyroid peroxidase) and anti-Tg antibodies (antibodies against thyroglobulin) is characteristic of Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Thyroid ultrasound:

• An ultrasound examination allows for the assessment of the structure of the thyroid gland, detecting changes such as nodules that may indicate inflammation.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis can manifest itself in a variety of symptoms, which often develop gradually and can be mistaken for other conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness

• Weight gain

• Depression and mood swings

• Dry skin and hair

• Feeling cold

• Constipation

• Muscle and joint pain

• Irregular periods

• Memory impairment and difficulty concentrating

Diet therapy:

Appropriate dietary intervention is extremely important in the management of Hashimoto's disease because, on the one hand, it ensures the supply of macro- and micronutrients necessary for thyroid health and, on the other hand, it can reduce the inflammation accompanying this disease.

Excessive body fat can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and autoimmune reactions, which are often associated with overweight and obesity in people with hypothyroidism. Therefore, it's important to tailor the nutritional plan to the individual's energy needs. However, excessive calorie restriction should be avoided, as this can negatively impact thyroid function and lead to elevated TSH levels.

Food groups worth paying special attention to when planning a diet for Hashimoto's disease include healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flax, and nuts can help reduce inflammation. Nuts, especially Brazil nuts, can also be a source of selenium, which supports thyroid function.

Supplementation:

In the case of Hashimoto's disease, supplementation can be helpful, especially in the case of nutritional deficiencies that can affect thyroid function.

Recommended products:

N°1 Minerals Set - a set of minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the body and perfectly supporting the proper functioning of the thyroid gland

N°1 Thyro PROTECT - a supplement dedicated to the thyroid. Contains selenium, which supports thyroid function.

N°1 Omega VIT - will have an excellent effect on inflammation caused by improper thyroid function,

N°1 Multi MG - support for the nervous system, which is also burdened by improper thyroid function,

N°1 ProBiotic - may support gut health, which is important for hypothyroidism, improving nutrient absorption and modulating the immune system.

Summary:

Hashimoto's disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and appropriate disease management, including nutritional therapy and supplementation, can significantly improve patients' quality of life. An individualized approach tailored to the patient's needs is crucial to the effective treatment and management of Hashimoto's disease symptoms. Collaboration with a dietitian is essential to develop an optimal nutritional and supplementation plan that supports thyroid health and overall well-being.

Sources

• Klubo-Gwiezdzinska J,Wartofsky L. Hashimoto thyroiditis: an evidence-based guide to etiology, diagnosis and treatment. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2022

• Mikulska AA, Karaźniewicz-Łada M, Filipowicz D, Ruchała M, Główka FK. Metabolic Characteristics of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Patients and the Role of Microelements and Diet in the Disease Management—An Overview. Int J Mol Sci. 2022

• Danailova Y, Velikova T, Nikolaev G, Mitova Z, Shinkov A, Gagov H, Konakchieva R. Nutritional Management of Thyroiditis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Int J Mol Sci. 2022

• Wang F, Li C, Li S, Cui L, Zhao J, Liao L. Selenium and thyroid diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023