A New Approach: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, affecting millions worldwide—often without a clear diagnosis until symptoms become debilitating. As an autoimmune condition, it requires more than just thyroid hormone replacement. A root-cause approach can help restore balance, reduce symptoms, and improve long-term health.
What Is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?
Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and reduced thyroid function. This results in symptoms like:
Fatigue
Weight gain
Brain fog
Hair thinning
Cold intolerance
Digestive issues
Mood changes (anxiety, depression)
A conventional approach focuses primarily on thyroid hormone replacement, but this doesn’t address the underlying immune dysfunction. Functional medicine aims to uncover and treat root causes.
Root Causes of Hashimoto’s
Several factors can trigger or exacerbate Hashimoto’s:
Gut Health & Leaky Gut – Increased intestinal permeability can drive autoimmunity.
Chronic Infections – Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), H. pylori, and yeast overgrowth can be contributing factors.
Nutrient Deficiencies – Selenium, zinc, vitamin D, B12, and iron are often low in Hashimoto’s.
Food Sensitivities – Gluten and dairy can trigger an immune response in some individuals.
Blood Sugar Imbalances – Insulin resistance and high blood sugar can worsen inflammation.
Toxin Exposure – Heavy metals, pesticides, and endocrine disruptors can interfere with thyroid function.
Chronic Stress – Cortisol dysregulation from prolonged stress can impair thyroid hormone conversion.
Functional Medicine Strategies for Hashimoto’s
Addressing Hashimoto’s requires a comprehensive approach tailored to each patient. Here are key strategies:
1. Optimising Gut Health
Test for gut infections (I use the GI MAP stool test to identify dysbiosis, H. pylori, or yeast overgrowth).
Reduce gut permeability.
Identify and remove food triggers (gluten, dairy, soy, nightshades if reactive).
2. Supporting the Immune System
Selenium and zinc can reduce thyroid antibodies.
Vitamin D levels should be optimised (aim for 50-70 ng/mL).
3. Balancing Blood Sugar
Prioritise protein and healthy fats at each meal.
Avoid refined sugars and processed carbs.
4. Reducing Environmental Toxins
Filter water to reduce fluoride and chlorine exposure.
Choose organic foods to minimise pesticide intake.
Reduce plastic use to lower endocrine disruptors (BPA, phthalates).
5. Managing Stress & Optimising Sleep
Prioritise 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation, yoga, or breathwork.
Adaptogenic herbs can support adrenal health.
Key Lab Tests for Hashimoto’s
A thorough functional medicine workup should include:
✅ Thyroid Panel – TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, TPO & TG antibodies
✅ Nutrient Levels – Vitamin D, iron panel, B12, magnesium, zinc, selenium
✅ Blood Sugar & Inflammation Markers – Fasting glucose, HbA1c, CRP
✅ Gut Health Tests – Stool analysis, food sensitivity testing (if needed)
✅ Adrenal Testing – Salivary or DUTCH cortisol test if stress is a factor
The Takeaway: Healing Is Possible
While Hashimoto’s can feel overwhelming, the right approach can help you regain energy, mental clarity, and overall well-being. Functional medicine provides a roadmap to healing by addressing root causes, supporting immune balance, and optimising thyroid function.
