Somewhere at the base of the neck, just wrapped around the esophagus, is a curious, butterfly shaped organ called the ‘Thyroid Gland’. Of course, you don’t get to see it when you look at someone’s neck, it’s not a necktie. It is a vital part of the body’s endocrine system – a body system that controls metabolic functions. Using iodine extracted from the food we eat; the thyroid produces the hormones ‘thyroxine (T4)’ and ‘triiodothyronine (T3)’ which regulate such vital functions as:
- Muscle strength
- Body temperature
- Cholesterol levels
- Weight
- Breathing
- Heart rate
- Nervous system
Thyroid Disorders Due to its importance in influencing most of the body’s metabolic processes, disorders affecting the thyroid could have serious implications for the body. The most common thyroid disorders are hormone production inconsistencies. Insufficient production causes hypothyroidism, while overproduction causes hyperthyroidism. Some of the more severe thyroid disorders are autoimmune disorders which occur when the immune system attacks the thyroid tissue, causing considerable damage to the organ. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, scientifically called chronic autoimmune lymphocytic thyroiditis, is the most prevalent cause of hypothyroidism. This condition occurs when the immune system (antibodies and white blood cells) attacks, damages, and causes inflammation of the thyroid cells, thereby impairing their proper function and causing underproduction of thyroid hormones. The root cause of this condition is yet unknown, however it has been observed to be a mostly hereditary condition. Women between the ages of 40 and 60 have been noted to be the most susceptible group to this health condition, especially if they have been pregnant at some point in their lives. Some of the documented symptoms which is instrumental in diagnosing Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis include:
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland (Goiter)
- Muscle weakness
- Weight gain
- Hair and skin changes (dryness)
- Fatigue or tiredness
At GluCare.Health thyroid clinic, we have observed that if left untreated, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can lead to severe health complications which include:
- Heart problems
- Mental health complications such as depression
- Heavier than normal menstrual flow
- Complications with pregnancy
- Confusion and loss of consciousness
- Anemia
- Sexual dysfunction
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment and Diet The thyroid gland relies heavily on iodine obtained from the food we eat, to produce thyroid hormones. Adhering to a diet that nourishes the body while mitigating the more severe aspects of the condition is important in providing a long-term solution to the condition. Since this condition causes inflammation of the thyroid, diets that are likely to aggravate the condition are to be noted and avoided at all cost. Our specialists at GluCare always recommend dietary changes as an essential step towards proper management and treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Some diets and substances that have the potential to flare up or worsen Hashimoto’s thyroiditis include:
- Gluten and grain rich diet
- Dairy rich diet
- High glucose diets (foods with high carbohydrates)
- Synthetic or added sugars
- Highly processed and fried foods
- Alcohol and Cigarettes
The best diets recommended Endocrinology specialists at GluCare.Health, that helps reduce inflammation and provide nutrients that helps the body revive thyroid cells that improves hormone production include:
- Starchy and non-starchy vegetables like; zucchini, asparagus, peas, sweet potatoes, artichoke, carrots, peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, cucumbers, turnips, garlic, onions, celery, cauliflower, spinach, beets, etc
- Healthy fats like; avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, full-fat yogurt, etc.
- Animal proteins like; salmon, cod, turkey, shrimps, eggs, etc
- Gluten free grains like; brown rice, brown rice pasta, quinoa, rolled oats, etc
- Dairy substitutes like coconut milk, almond milk, unsweetened full-fat yogurt, etc
- Spices and herbs like turmeric, rosemary, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, paprika, cinnamon, basil and lemon juice
- Fruits, seeds and nuts
- Lentils and beans
- Plenty of water
Effective management of this condition requires a combination of healthy eating habits and daily doses of levothyroxine – a hormonal supplement similar to the hormone produced by the thyroid gland. GluCare.Health offers revolutionary treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis by combining medications with our specialized care team, using our continuous remote data monitoring system. By using connected wearable devices, we are able to closely monitor the effectiveness of the prescribed medication and make changes frequently, often without repeat trips to the clinic. Our care team is composed of physicians, nurses, coaches, educators and nutritionists available to monitor the patient remotely, to provide guidance and answer questions, especially on dietary changes to support medication treatment.
