Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD

Thyroid Pharmacist

6 Different Hashimoto’s Root Causes

6 Different Hashimoto’s Root Causes

Medically reviewed and written by Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP on February 4, 2015

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I often get messages from people with Hashimoto’s and autoimmune disease that say “Thanks for your efforts, but I’ve already tried everything.

I have cut out gluten, dairy, and soy and still have Hashimoto’s. How can your website and book (Hashimoto’s: The Root Cause) help me?”

While changing your diet is a really important first step that will greatly help many of you, if you do not see a complete remission of your condition within 3-6 months, I encourage you to dig deeper. Changing my diet was a really important step in my healing journey, but it was just the beginning.

Digging for Your Root Causes

Dr. Alessio Fasano, world-renowned gastroenterologist, Celiac disease and autoimmunity expert, describes autoimmunity as a three-legged stool that needs three things to be present to manifest:

  1. The right genes
  2. The trigger
  3. Intestinal permeability

While we can’t change our genes, we can reverse the autoimmune condition by removing triggers and intestinal permeability.

You can read about this new advance in this reversing autoimmunity article and how I came across this information about the skeptical scientist in me.

Dr. Fasano uses the example of Celiac disease to explain this phenomenon. Celiac disease is a unique autoimmune condition where gluten acts as both the trigger and the cause of intestinal permeability! Once gluten is removed, the body is able to heal and regenerate itself.

Infections have been implicated as triggers in many cases of autoimmunity, and identifying and removing infections may result in a complete remission of the autoimmune condition. You can read more about infections and Hashimoto’s.

Although we can’t always identify and even remove all of the triggers, such as Epstein-Barr Virus (the virus that causes Mono), another option is to fix the intestinal permeability. This will also allow many individuals to put their condition into remission, as the “three-legged stool” of autoimmunity will no longer be able to stand!

Based on my research over the last four years, I’d like to share with you six potential root causes of intestinal permeability. There are of course many additional root causes, but these six are a great place to start.

Note: Some of you may have more than one root cause, and I encourage you to dig!

Root Cause #1: Gluten Sensitivity

Gluten sensitivity and Celiac disease have been implicated in various autoimmune conditions ranging from Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Various tests can be done to determine if one has Celiac disease/gluten sensitivity. However, the condition may not always show up on tests. Some individuals do not learn of their sensitivity until they remove gluten from their diets.

Gluten sensitivity may be the sole root cause, or it may be one of a few root causes. Every person with an autoimmune thyroid condition should remove gluten from his/her diet. Even in those who do not have Celiac or gluten sensitivity, gluten causes intestinal permeability.

If gluten was the sole root cause, the person should see a complete remission of thyroid antibodies and thyroid function may even return to normal within 3-6 months! If not, we may need to dig deeper…

Treatment: Pretty straight forward… Testing for Celiac/gluten disease, and removing gluten from the diet

Root Cause #2: Gluten Sensitivity & Cross-Reactive Proteins

In addition to gluten sensitivity, individuals with Hashimoto’s may also be reactive to multiple other proteins including grains like rice, quinoa, and corn. Some experts, like Dr. William Davis, author of Wheat Belly, claim that human beings did not evolve to eat “grasses” like wheat, rice, or corn.

Other individuals may also react to dairy, eggs, nuts, seeds, nightshades…

Cyrex labs, ALCAT, Alletess labs offer additional testing options for food sensitivities.

Treatments of Choice: Testing, elimination diet, Paleo diet, Autoimmune Paleo diet, and in some cases a rotation diet may be beneficial. Working with a nutrition coach can be extremely beneficial in this respect. Supplements to help restore the gut lining may be beneficial as well. Systemic enzymes may prevent reactions to new foods, and reduce reactions to current foods.

Ready to try the Autoimmune Paleo diet but not sure where to start? Get my 2-week recipe plan for FREE!

Root Cause #3: Glutamine/Zinc Depletion

Zinc and glutamine are among the two substances that are required for rebuilding intestinal lining. In times of stress, the body will pull these substances from our intestines and uses them for other things, such as the production of adrenal hormones.

In most cases, these substances become available to us through food, and things go back to normal after the stressful time is over, and the gut lining is rebuilt with new ingredients.

This becomes an issue for those under prolonged stress, those with low stomach acid (which is needed to extract zinc from proteins), and those that follow a diet low in animal protein, including vegans and vegetarians, as glutamine is primarily found in animal protein (including eggs and dairy).

Some individuals who followed vegan/vegetarian diets and then introduced animal proteins back into their diets have been able to put their Hashimoto’s in remission. I believe this is because the glutamine and other ingredients allowed them to rebuild their gut lining.

Solutions for this root cause: glutamine supplements, zinc supplements, bone broths, gelatin, well-cooked meats, Betaine with Pepsin (digestive enzymes to extract zinc from food), and any of the nutrient dense diets listed in this blog post.

Note: Other nutrients like vitamin D are also required for proper gut barrier function. Most of these interventions and supplements will help for just about everyone with Hashimoto’s. I maintain a list of Hashimoto’s recommended supplements.

Root Cause #4: Parasites

You may think that parasites are only present in malnourished third world countries. Not so. Depending on the sources, 30-70% of Americans may be infected with parasites. Current detection methods miss many parasites, and honestly, how many of you have been routinely tested for parasites?

A parasite found in the intestines can cause a tremendous amount of damage and has the ability to cause intestinal permeability, food sensitivities, and autoimmune disease. If you are someone who developed your condition after a period of intense stress, I urge you to get tested, as stress makes us more susceptible to parasites.

Unfortunately, diets are a short-term fix. People with parasites have multiple food sensitivities that don’t go away no matter what they eat or don’t eat. A person may feel better initially after removing sensitizing foods, only to start feeling worse once new foods become reactive. You can be on the perfect diet, and take loads of supplements, but if you have a parasite, it doesn’t matter; you will not be able to recover fully.

There are many different types of parasites, including worms, amoebas, and protozoa. Different treatments work for different parasites, thus while general parasite cleanses can sometimes help, I prefer to figure out the specific type of parasite through advanced testing, such as the GI-MAP, GI Effects, or Comprehensive Stool Analysis. For parasites in autoimmune disease, I take the approach “guilty until proven innocent,” as I have seen many people with 5-10 negative tests for parasites finally come up positive on one of the above-mentioned tests.

You can order the GI-MAP, GI Effects Comprehensive Profile, or Comprehensive Stool Analysis from Great Plains Laboratory tests yourself or through a functional medicine practitioner. You can learn more about the functional medicine approach to thyroid.

Temporary Fix: probiotics, low carbohydrate diets, and diets such as the Autoimmune Paleo Diet will make it easier for us to tolerate the parasite symptomatically, but will not result in the elimination of the parasite or the autoimmune condition.

Solution: antiparasitic herbs tailored to the parasite, specific antiparasitic medications, certain supplements, the probiotic S. boulardii and low carbohydrate diets will help as well.

Root Cause #5 Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

SIBO is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small bowel or small intestine. This overgrowth can be caused by antibiotic overuse and starchy foods, among others. The SIBO results in intestinal permeability as the body tries to get rid of the excess bacteria.

Testing: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth 3-Hr Lactulose-Genova Kit can be self-ordered by patients and gastroenterologists, and major Academic Treatment Centers will have access to advanced diagnostic tests.

Treatment Options: antibiotics, antimicrobial herbs, elemental diet and diets like the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, Low FODMAPS diet, and GAPS diet are the treatments of choice for SIBO.

Root Cause #6 Fungal Infections

The fungus Candida can cause intestinal permeability and has been implicated in autoimmune disease and food sensitivities. Liz Schau, the holistic nutritionist, was kind enough to share her Hashimoto’s remission story after overcoming Candida.

Testing: Gut testing such as the GI-MAP may help determine if there is an overgrowth of Candida in the bowels.

Treatment:  Probiotics, anti-fungal herbs, and medications, an anti-candida diet such as the Body Ecology Diet. You can read more about diets and my experience with Body Ecology.

So What’s Your Root Cause?

I encourage you to Dig at it! It’s not always the same for each person, and I wrote my book to help you figure that out!  I cover each of the above-mentioned root causes in great detail and provide much more information on many additional root causes, and how to find yours.

If you haven’t picked up a copy of my book, Hashimoto’s: The Root Cause yet, I hope that you will consider getting going into the New Year. In January 2011, I decided to take charge of my health, and I am so glad that I did. Wishing you all the best in your health journey!

PS. You can also download a free Thyroid Diet Guide, 10 Thyroid friendly recipes, and the Nutrient Depletions and Digestion chapter for free by going to www.thyroidpharmacist.com/gift. You will also receive occasional updates about new research, resources, giveaways and helpful information.

For future updates, make sure to follow us on Facebook!

References

  1. Sategna-Guidetti C, Volta U, Ciacci C et al. Prevalence of thyroid disorders in untreated adult celiac disease patients and effect of gluten withdrawal: an Italian multicenter study. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2001;96(3):751-757. doi:10.1111/j.1572-0241.2001.03617.x.
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  1. Thank you for the helpful outline of potential root causes and methods to address them. One question regarding something that did not fit with with what I had previously understood. Quina is a seed, not a grain, but is listed in article with grains. I never heard that it was a potential problem? I thought it was a favored alternative to grains?
    Reply

  2. Hi Tricia- It depends on your unique sensitivities. Some may react to seeds and nuts in addition to grains.
    Reply

    • Many people with hypothyroidism will experience a dramatic range of symptoms – low moods and energy levels, brittle and dry skin and hair, loss of memory, irritability, weakened muscles, and low sex drive, to name a few. A combination of those symptoms can be enough to freak anybody out, but to a keen practitioner they can indicate the possibility of hypothyroidism.

      Reply

      • Mark – thank you so much for following this page.

        Did you know that if you live in the United States, Australia, Europe and most developed countries that add iodine to the salt supply and take thyroid medications, there’s a higher probability that you do have Hashimoto’s?

        Depending on the source, estimates are that between 90-95% of those with hypothyroidism have Hashimoto’s.

        But most doctors will never tell people that they have Hashimoto’s, or that their own immune system is attacking their thyroid. People are told that their “thyroid is sluggish”, and that these things happen with age and “Just take this pill, you’ll be fine.” I hope you check out my books:

        Hashimoto’s Protocol
        thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol

        Hashimoto’s Root Cause
        http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

        Reply

        • If someone has hashimoto and taking levothyroxin, can they take iodized salt like 1/4 teaspoon which is 40percent of daily need, or it harm may be because Levothyroxin has iodine in it?

          Reply

          • Meena – thank you for reaching out. I’m very hesitant in recommending iodine in Hashimoto’s. Although iodine serves as fuel for our thyroid and is very important in iodine deficiency hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s is a different mechanism. It’s like pouring gas into an engine that’s on fire… that’s essentially what’s happening in Hashi’s, thyroid inflammation, and adding iodine to the mix before putting out the fire and fixing the engine may result in further damage to the thyroid. In those with a predisposition to autoimmunity, this has been documented time and time again, animal and human studies. I have spent 4 years researching this and have seen too many people suffering the consequences of adding iodine too soon. My approach is, let’s fix the engine first (usually a gut issue), and then add the fuel once we know that the engine is no longer on fire. Hope that you will check out my book. I have an entire chapter on the iodine controversy that references numerous studies as well as the work of Abraham and Brownstein.

            IODINE AND HASHIMOTO’S
            https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/iodine-hashimotos/

            AMAZON
            Hashimoto’s Root Cause
            http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

            Hashimoto’s Protocol
            thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol

      • Hi Izabella ive been diagnosed with hyperthyroid in 2008 and reversed to subclinical hypo. With antibodies
        Im am so thin and lean my tsh is highly elevated. My endo stopped my meds for a year now. Please help.me i have normal ft4 .whata bothering me ia my weight has dropped. How could i recovwe from weight loss.thank you.

        Reply

        • Gianna – thank you for following this page and my research. Most people with Hashimoto’s will experience weight gain, and so of course that’s what gets the most focus, but some people actually experience weight loss, or they can’t keep their weight on.This is especially problematic when a person has multiple food sensitivities and needs to adhere to an autoimmune diet that restricts foods. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

          1. Get a calorie counting app like My Fitness Pal on your phone, to help you keep track of your daily calories. Eating real food can be more filling than eating simple carbohydrates and you may not be getting enough calories. Use the app to figure out your target weight and the number of calories per day you need to get there.
          2. Supplement after dinner with The Root Cause Building Smoothie: 1 avocado (300 calories), 1 cup coconut milk (150 calories), 1 banana (100 calories), 2 egg yolks (100 calories, if tolerated), 1 scoop of protein of beef/pea protein (60 calories) – You can also add cooked sweet potatoes if you need more carbs.
          3. Get tested for gut infections. Gut infections can prevent the digestion and assimilation of foods, leaving you underweight and malnourished. The 401H test or GI Effects test are my go to tests.
          4. Get your adrenals tested with an adrenal saliva tests. In some, stressed adrenals may actually lead to poor absorption of foods.
          5. Be sure that you are not over medicated.
          6. Work on reducing your antibodies with a selenium supplement
          7. Stress reduction, when we’re stressed we don’t digest.
          8. Add coconut oil in your beverages, this can add extra calories in your day
          9. Avoid caffeine, it can make you less hungry and stress out your adrenals.

          In case you would like to read more, here are the links to my books:
          Root Cause: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

          Hashimoto’s Protocol (this is my latest book): https://www.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms-ebook/dp/B01HXK6GVQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1505933035&sr=8-1&keywords=hashimotos+protocol+izabella+wentz

          Reply

  3. I was recently diagnosed with Hasimoto and I have stopped gluten and now I’m gaining weight and I feel worse than I did. My Dr. told me to take fish oil, vitamin D and vitamin E. This is all so overwhelming and expensive with all the tests you’re suggesting.
    Reply

    • Tonya- When it comes to weight gain these are a couple of things to think about.

      1) What was your recent TSH, Free T3 and Free T4? Sometimes when those numbers are on the outskirts of normal, your metabolic rate may still be impaired making it more difficult for you to burn calories. Most people report feeling well with a TSH between 0.5-2.

      2) What type of medication are you on? Some report more weight loss with T4/T3 combinations (Armour, Nature-Throid, compounded medications) versus T4 medications (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Tirosint) alone. T4 is a precursor to T3, but some individuals do not convert T4 to T3 properly, and the T3 component is the metabolically active one.

      3) What type of diet are you eating? Some report more weight loss with T4/T3 combination vs T4 alone. Some do not convert T4 properly.The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) full of sugar and simple carbohydrates is perfectly designed to cause us to gain weight year after year. Even yogurts that are marketed as “healthy” contain the equivalent of 16 teaspoons of sugar. Divorcing the S.A.D. is often a step that many of us must take to not just lose weight, but to also feel better. Some diets that have been helpful include the Body Ecology Diet, the Paleo Diet, the Virgin Diet, Autoimmune Paleo Diet, GAPS diet, SCD diet, Weston A. Price Diet, or the Mediterranean Diet. You may need to modify these diets to your own individuality.

      BEST DIET FOR HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/best-diet-for-hashimotos-hypothyroidism

      HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT WITH HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/how-to-lose-weight-with-hashimotos

      Reply

  4. I recently came upon your book and your website. Thank you for the information provided. I have a question about onset. I was between five and eight years old when first diagnosed with hypothyroid. I took medicine for a short while when it could be afforded. Then kelp pills. No treatment at all until I was 16 and went to a specialist. I have been on Armour or Synthroid ever since. I am now 65. I have chronic Epstein Barr, diagnosed in the 80’s, had breast cancer in the 90’s. I’ve always been active and worked long hours. Now I am retired on disability due to my declining yet unidentifiable neurological health issues. Brain fog, tipping and falling, sleep disruption, GERD (most of my life) et al. After all of that, my main question is since I was diagnosed at such a young age, has it been Hashimoto’s all that time? I wasn’t told that was the actual condition I had until I was in my 30’s. No other doctor as noted or commented on it. Thank you so much for your work.
    Reply

  5. Hi Trina,
    It’s difficult to tell if it was Hashimoto’s, but it does sound like you have had an immune system imbalance for quite some time. There are 100’s of autoimmune conditions, new ones identified every year, and various parts of your body could be targeted by your immune system. Hashimoto’s seems to be one of the most common autoimmune conditions, but many times if you have one, you may have multiple
    Reply

  6. I have Hashi’s with a TPO of 900, but through diet have recently lowered my TPO to the 500 range. I did the Alcat 200 test and it said I did not have a problem with dairy, so I once in awhile treat myself to kefir and yogurt I make with raw milk. I have been tested for parasites, etc. and they said I have none. Will my TPO’s just gradually lower with my diet change. I do not eat gluten or soy either.
    Reply

  7. Cathy- Great job on changing your diet! That is a significant drop in TPO antibodies so your hard work is paying off. Once you remove the antigen, the antibodies should drop to less than 100 within 3-6 months. Just as an FYI, I had 11 parasite tests before I got a positive one, they may not show up on every test.
    Reply

  8. Hi Izabella
    If you speak of being in remission, is it when your anti-bodies are under 100 or in my case for TPOab I think our lab states it needs to be under 60.
    I thought I’d share the following, it may just help someone and serves to confirm your approach.
    I’m most excited. One year 5 months ago I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s. My TSH was 11 and my TPOab 1214. I immediately went of gluten, soy and dairy and my doctor also found my vitamin D levels were exceptionally low.
    I used the Bristol stool chart as a guide and found the fodmap diet worked perfectly for me. If I didn’t follow it strictly I could see it according to the stool chart. I was eating Brazil nuts daily, but after reading your book I took actual supplements for selenium and vitamin E which I’ve been having daily since January of this year.
    I also had my teeth checked last year as you suggested and had a tooth with a root that had died. According to the dentist I wasn’t getting an abscess because it was draining into my sinuses. I delayed having it extracted. There was no way that I could keep to what the Bristol stool chart was recommending anymore, although my diet hadn’t changed. Two days after having the tooth extracted my tummy was fine again, and at the gym I was suddenly capable of doing what I was battling with before, with ease now.
    My TSH levels dropped to within normal range withing two months of changing my diet and on Friday I had my antibodies checked for the first time, about 5 weeks after having my tooth extracted and they have dropped to 138…I’m so excited about that.
    Thank you for your amazing book and all your snippets of education. I would just like to encourage everyone as well to actively take charge of their healing.
    Reply

  9. Michelle- thank you so much for sharing your story! I’m so glad to hear that you are on your way to remission 🙂 Would you take the time to review the book on Amazon? It helps us spread the word! I would also love to do a remission story blog post with you if you would be willing to share (we can make it anonymous or with your info)- My email is thyroidpharmacist@gmail.com
    Reply

  10. you said you were tested 11 times for parasites before a positive result. Do you recommend repeatedly testing after getting a negative result. The test you recommended is $495.
    Reply

  12. Hi Where in Australia can I have testing done and do you know of any Doctors in Australia that specialises in this disease and the treatment of it?
    Reply

  13. Karen, you may want to check out the Center for Digestive Disorders in Sydney. I know they can help with gut testing. Otherwise, I don’t have too many resources in Australia just yet…
    Reply

  16. Thanks Sarra! Hope it helps you! I also have a book that many have found helpful -www.thyroidpharmacist.com/book
    Reply

  18. I was diagnosed with Hashimotos 2 years ago M.y hormones have been out of whack and I’ve been tested for diabetes,don’t have it, tested for celiacs disease, don’t have it and I have had several allergy tests done all of which I’m not allergic to any wheat soy peanuts etc etc. so if I’m not allergic to wheat how can I be gluten sensitive I can eat everything that consists of gluten and nothing happens. I have energy, I just have packed on 40 pounds over the last 2 years I think because of menopause and that I have been misdiagnosed even though my thyroid numbers indicate Im HYPO and need synthroid. I’ve had a laryngoscopy and all my organs checked and a GI doctor go down into my tummy and everything is fine so have I been misdiagnosed with the Hashis because I was told it is hereditary and neither of my parents have it. CONFUSED by too many Dr’s wanting to make more than what my insurance covers I guess Im on a fruit and veggie diet drink lots of water take vitamins have joined the gym been going religiously for a month about 4 days a week and havent lost a single pound what gives?
    Reply

    • Shari- When it comes to weight gain these are a couple of things to think about.

      1) What was your recent TSH, Free T3 and Free T4? Sometimes when those numbers are on the outskirts of normal, your metabolic rate may still be impaired making it more difficult for you to burn calories. Most people report feeling well with a TSH between 0.5-2.

      2) What type of medication are you on? Some report more weight loss with T4/T3 combinations (Armour, Nature-Throid, compounded medications) versus T4 medications (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Tirosint) alone. T4 is a precursor to T3, but some individuals do not convert T4 to T3 properly, and the T3 component is the metabolically active one.

      3) What type of diet are you eating? Some report more weight loss with T4/T3 combination vs T4 alone. Some do not convert T4 properly.The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) full of sugar and simple carbohydrates is perfectly designed to cause us to gain weight year after year. Even yogurts that are marketed as “healthy” contain the equivalent of 16 teaspoons of sugar. Divorcing the S.A.D. is often a step that many of us must take to not just lose weight, but to also feel better. Some diets that have been helpful include the Body Ecology Diet, the Paleo Diet, the Virgin Diet, Autoimmune Paleo Diet, GAPS diet, SCD diet, Weston A. Price Diet, or the Mediterranean Diet. You may need to modify these diets to your own individuality.

      BEST DIET FOR HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/best-diet-for-hashimotos-hypothyroidism

      HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT WITH HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/how-to-lose-weight-with-hashimotos

      Reply

  19. I find it amazing that Gluten is now the new enemy. First it was sugar, then something else. This causes cancer, and that will kill you. Well, My dad was a doctor,and we took only natural supplements growing up, I mean I had to take a bottle full of vitamins that were doled out to me each day. We never bought meat from the store. Our meat was not fed the way others are. My parents bought a whole side of beef, yet I have had Hoshimotos for years. We weren’t even allowed to get vaccines. I find most of this stuff just fodder to sell your book. Most people have problems in their gene pool. I even got tested for gluten sensitivity by a doctor, have had a scope down my throat and even a colonoscopy. I’m sorry to say but I think this is just the latest gimmick.
    Reply

  20. Thanks for all the Info.. My Endo doc had me give up Gluten and I did feel better for 3 weeks but then the thyroid symptoms came back . I just came off a year and half of a very stress period and my adrenals were ragging. I am going to do a parasite cleansing like you mentioned. Along with giving up dairy. I love you advice
    Reply

  21. Hi
    I got tested for celiac and my thyroid and nothing showed up. They did say that I had an iron deficiency. From my understanding that is a symptom of something great going on. So, could the initial tests for the celiac and thyroid be off?
    Reply

  22. Thank you for the article. I am very interested in reading your book. I have Ulcerative Colitis and Hypo. I’ve tried many diets and programs with no luck. I need help.
    Reply

  23. Pat- I think the book will help you. UC and Hashi’s are both autoimmune in nature, so the things that help one, will often help the other
    Reply

  24. Hi, Dr. Iza,
    A lot of thanks for this fantastic & educative lovingly effort.
    Such this materials must be made provided in Videos so that all could visually watch & learn the facts, It would be much more impressive.
    Reply

  25. Hi, Dr. Iza,
    A lot of thanks for this great effort.
    Such materlas must be provided in Videos, so that everybody could
    visually watch and feel the unknown facts and educate others also.
    Dr. Lamber R. Soze Banga.
    Ludhiana ( Pb ), India.
    Reply

  26. I am currently one week into the Autoimmune Paleo Diet. Around day 3, I started feeling some major bladder irritation, which has only happened when I’ve tried to up my vitamin C intake. As soon as I lowered my vit. C, it went away. I’m on D-Mannose .9 grams 3 x/day, which has helped greatly, but it hasn’t taken it completely away. Have you ever heard of this happening? Just want to make sure I don’t damage my bladder in some way through this new way of eating, yet I would like to get into remission…thanks!
    Reply

  27. To everyone thinking of perhaps ordering Anatabloc, please take a good look at the “Other Ingredients” listed on the label. Please note that other than the first ingredient which is a sugar, the rest are toxic fillers, chemicals and dyes. Do you really think putting that in your body will help to heal you? I’m surprised it would even be found here on Dr. Wentz’s website!
    Reply

  28. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s about twelve years ago. Been on the swings and the roundabout, but got suspicious that there was a domino effect here when I was diagnosed with coeliac, multiple chemical sensitivities, fibromyalgia, myofacial pain syndrome and ME as well! My lab tests (which indicate hyperthyroid) contradict the clinical picture, which is classical hypothyroid. Nothing in New Zealand to treat autoimmunity, but I did a lot on my own. Had amalgams removed and the antibodies (tested at my insistence) went from 1600 down to 400. No more fainting or petite mals (which came on in the months before removal. Have reduced thyroxine from 150 mcg to 100mcg. This website (and the book, which I will be ordering) is a godsend. When I got stroppy at being told there was nothing I could even do to help myself the dr gave me a spot diagnosis of ‘borderline personality disorder!!!’ By the way, I am 77 and I got plenty of life to live yet, so no one is too old to change. Watch this space!
    Reply

  30. Hello Izabella, I am writing hoping for some help with my health. I was told at the age of 22 that I had a slow thyroid. I did not proceed to do anything about it until I was 30 as I always felt fine, weight was fine, energy. But I wanted to have a baby and so started taking Synthroid. I am now 44 and my TPO test came back at 80. I do understand that is not very high, but it seems that I have gone Hyperthyroid with this.
    Did you know you had intolerances to things? I am not sure where to begin. I would like to heal my immune system, and just don’t really know where to begin. I have read so many different things that I have stressed myself out thinking I am doomed to a life of sickness.
    When I read other peoples stories, I don’t have any of the symptoms they talk of. I felt fine (although on Synthroid) and then found out my body was attacking itself.
    I have checked our book stores for your book, but may have to order it online.
    Also, I am curious if you need to eat Paleo type diet for the rest of your life?
    Also can you recommend a good doctor in Victoria BC?
    Thank you
    Reply

  31. Seana
    Not everyone does well on synthetic hormones (Synthroid). I have Hashimotos. I tried Synthroid years ago and none of my symptoms went away, so I asked to be put on Armour Thyroid which is a natural hormone. The difference in my symptoms was like night and day!’ I have been on Armour now for about 10 years and it has really worked for me.
    Reply

  32. Hi and thank you so much for all your work and insight to regaining thyroid health. I had thyroid tests done and found out I had elevated TPO after feeling a nodule and having an ultrasound. (benign). I went gluten free a year ago and have lowered TPO from 71 down to 31 and feel very well. Yay! Recently I had my 3rd kidney stone and had to have this one removed . Ouch. My dilemma now is I want to eat healthy and gluten free but also take measures to try to avoid another kidney stone issue. I would love to find a functional nutritionist who could help me design a diet that would help keep these issues in check. Do you have any suggestions for how to locate a nutritionist to help me? Thank you so much for all you do!
    Reply

  33. I’m currently reading your book. I started yesterday. I love it. I have learned quite a bit of the information on my own over the years but you explain things in a way that is so impressive, how things work and why certain supplements help. I had my amalgam fillings removed over a year ago and while researching that I got curious about cavitations. I finally got a thermography of my face and upper body. It suggests that I could possibly have cavitations at my wisdom teeth sites. I’m scheduled for February for diagnostics and surgery if needed. For now I will get back on all of my herbal supplements that help me feel normal. I’m going to research their constituents to see what if any of your suggested supplements they contain.
    Question: a couple of years ago I did an iGg test. Eggs were a huge delayed trigger. We had finally found what was causing so much greif! I find that if I eat organic eggs I don’t get those same symptoms. Should I still stay away from them anyway? I just wonder if those tests use conventional foods. My friend showed allergy to corn and she eats non GMO corn and the antibodies she had developed went away.
    Thank you so much for your dedication to your own health and sharing all of your research with us.
    Reply

  34. What is the difference between Hashimoto’s and Graves disease? I was told at sixteen that I had thyroid disease, but was not told anything except that I had an underactive thyroid and that I would have to take a pill for the rest of my life. Everytime I get my thyroid checked, the doctor says he has to either raise or lower the dose.
    Reply

    • Debra- Graves and Hashimoto’s are both autoimmune conditions that affect the thyroid. They are thought to be closely related. Sometimes one turns into the other. The difference is the site of the antibody attack. In Hashimoto’s, the antibodies are found to thyroglobulin (in 80%) and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) enzyme (in 95% of people)-Hashimoto’s results in hypothyroidism and is usually treated with Synthroid and replacement hormone.

      The same antibodies may be present in a smaller percentage of people who have Graves, but the main antibody is to the TSH Receptor (TSHR-Ab). Usually people with Graves have hyperthyroidism and they are treated conventionally with thyroid suppressing drugs (methimazole) or radioactive iodine to destroy the thyroid. At that point, the thyroid will no longer produce hormones on its own and these people end up on Synthroid as well.

      Most thyroid conditions result from the immune system attacking the thyroid because the immune system is out of balance. Even when the thyroid is taken out surgically or treated with radioactive iodine the autoimmunity still persists in most cases. Many people will have their thyroids removed, and will develop new autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc. The immune system just finds a different target. We need to rebalance the immune system to prevent this (sometimes the autoimmunity can be reversed as well! The gut determines your immune system. With the exception of discussing proper thyroid medication dosing, the majority of my website and my book focuses on balancing the immune system. The info I present is based on my own research in journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition.

      Hashimoto’s Root Cause
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
      Hashimoto’s Protocol
      https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol

      Reply

  35. Debra, can I make a comment? I have hashimotos and I had the same problem with having to adjust my synthroid dose every time I had a blood test – sometimes my TSH was way too high, sometimes too low. When I cut out gluten, this stopped – it was the best thing I’ve ever done, my TSH has been stable ever since. Also if you can afford to get allergy testing, it’s fantastic – I found out I had dairy and egg allergies (I had no issues with my stomach when I ate them – the allergy was purely immune, not digestive for me so without the testing I wouldn’t have known) and going off them has also helped a lot. Seriously, go off gluten!! 🙂
    Reply

  36. Hello,
    What about taking Diotamaceous Earth (food grade of course) for getting rid of any possible parasites? Is that safe for hashi patients?
    Reply

  37. Dear Izabella,
    I am still in the middle of diagnosis process whether I have hypothyroidism or Hashimotos. I am also diagnosed with Depression and anxiety disorder. I also had removal of the gall bladder about 2 years ago. In May 2014 I switched to paleo diet which gave me a Little distress due to missing gall bladder which I fixed now by drinking a bitter herbal tea before breakfast and before going to bed. But I also hit another Trigger which I wasn’t thinking about before: histamine. Due to severe aches in my finger Joints I put myself on a low histamine diet and ordered some L-glutamine to help the gut, because Problems with excess histamine can be related to a leaky gut. I slowly increased the dose of L-glutamine up to 3g a day, but experienced continuously rising nervousness like in a light hyperthyroism / overdose of L-thyroxine so I took a break from taking it. Did you ever hear about such reactions to l-glutamine? Can it possibly by my Trigger?
    I am going to replace the anti-baby-pill I’m taking with a copper-gold-spiral soon in order to see if the pill had some negative side-effects on the thyroid.
    Reply

  38. Dear Izabella,
    I am hypothyroid and take synthroid and levthyronine. I have had it for 5-6 years. Last year my hair has started falling out and on the top I’ve probably lost half of it, but it is coming out all over. Drs haven’t figured it out. Do you know what I should have checked or what I should do?
    Reply

  39. Hey Marie, I’m not a doctor but if it were me, I would get a full iron panel which includes serum iron, ferritin, TIBC, transferrin saturation, and CBC (to check red blood cells). I have been suffering with thinning hair as well and just recently diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. My ferritin was an 8. During this time I was also suffering from heart palpitations, increased heart rate, severe dizziness, shortness of breath, and muscle weakness. I have been on iron supplements prescribed by my doc for a month and my ferritin has increased to the low 20’s which is in the normal range now but still to low to stop hair loss and promote hair regrowth. My aim is to get my ferritin levels to at least 80 for optimal hair benefits. My other symptoms have drastically diminished as well. Love, light, and blessings to you on your health journey!
    Reply

  40. Shanon
    So my hair has been thinning since my 1st child 7 yrs ago. Then pregnant 5 years later and my haor grew back like crazy! The birth of my daughter 17 months ago brought hair loss (thinning) again and it continues. I’m wondering if im anemic. So ots called a ful iron panel? Should I get that test done though a NP or a functional medicine doc. It gets frustrating going to some NP docs as they want thousands of dollars or do dozens of tests. TIA!
    Reply

  41. Shanon,
    Thank you for your response. Now that three more months have past
    Has your hair come in and if so what was the level that it came back?
    Reply

  42. I have hashimotos and a dairy, egg, all nuts, all grain, soy, seed, and corn allergies. I have been fighting candida and my allergies for over a year now trying to get my hashimotos under control. I have had 3 misscariages believed to be caused my hashimotos. What in the world do I eat. For a year now I haven’t been able to work either. I try going organic but its just not affordable. I also can’t eat red meat. Supplements are out of the question due to finances from me not being able to work and maintain insurance. ANY HELP OR ADVISE WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. I am at my end here.
    Reply

    • Heather – You may be interested in checking out the Root Cause Recipe Portal. It is full of autoimmune paleo and paleo recipes. You’re able to organize weekly shopping lists, meal planning, etc. Hope you check it out.

      http://rootcauserecipes.com/

      Reply

  44. Hi there! Thanks for your book – because of it I found out I have the MTHFR genetic mutation (just the one) and I cut out gluten AND did allergy testing and found out I was creating antibodies to eggs and dairy! It’s been a huge help- Once I cut all these things out my TSH levels have been more stable, though I am still on 100 of synthroid I hoping this will gradually go down now (it’s only been 5 months off dairy and eggs). My question is, we have been TTC a child for 4 yrs now – we had our first child no problem, but I developed hashimotos after she was born and have been diagnosed with unexplained secondary infertility. We are now at the point of planning IVF, and am wondering if you can offer any advice on how to prepare my body so IVF is most likely to work? I take baby asprin and fish oils daily, as well as a vitamin with folate not folic acid for the MTHFR, and I have cut out the allergins to help my thyroid. Is there anything else I should be doing? IT’s so expensive and very taxing on my body, we need the procedure to work the first time if possible.
    Reply

  45. I’m seeing more and more people who have been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s later find out that they also have Lyme disease. Lyme is called the “great imitator”, but thyroid antibodies are either present or not. Just wondering if there is any information on if Lyme leads to Hashimoto’s. If the correlation stands, would you put Lyme in the root cause category of fungal infections? FYI… only a very small dose of thyroid medication puts my TSH in the optimal zone! The most recent article proves correct in my situation.
    Reply

  46. I am so frustrated I waited three months and drove two hours to see a endocrinologist I was so hopeful to feel better. Well the Dr was a jerk I saw him for a total of thirteen minutes, they drew my blood and sent me home.I am on levothyroxine 75mcg now his nurse called and he will add T3. How do you find a decent Dr? Tears in Idaho
    Reply

  47. Hi I was wondering if being exposed at three mile island could be a cause of my thyroid issues .. Also ironically I grew up near another power plant – I was dxed with Hash in my 20s thyroid was larger on one side now at 49 yrs old my thyroid is very small – non existence — I was on synthroid for many years about a year ago switched to Armour 240 feeling a bit better however still having issues — any advice?? TSH is all over the place never balanced out
    Reply

    • Princess- You may be interested in my 12 week online program called Hacking Hashimoto’s that covers all of the strategies that I go through with my one-on-one clients, in a self-paced format, so that participants have access to all of the things I’ve learned about Hashimoto’s without having to schedule costly consults with me or another practitioner. There are a few requirements that you should pay attention to, such as my book is a required read.

      HACKING HASHIMOTOS
      http://hackinghashimotos.com/

      Reply

  48. You may want to try finding a functional or integrative doctor by googling the functional medicine website. Endo’s are generally useless for thyroid issues. I don’t know where you are in Idaho, but I am in Wyoming and this was the only one that came up for my area, it’s in Jackson Hole. http://menoclinic.com
    Reply

  49. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s a few years ago. Got my antibodies down from 1200 to about 200 by going gluten and soy free. Have been dairy free for the past few months too. I eat mostly vegetables, meat and some fruit. My skin is very orange tinged, and I have frequent bowel movements – anywhere from 5 – 8 a day! No problems otherwise, just frequent, although sometimes they float. Could it be a sluggish liver or some other liver problem too?
    Reply

    • Laura- Our skin is a window to our internal health. It is the body’s largest elimination organ, and also a canvas where toxicities, nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities and hormonal imbalances can show up. Women with Hashimoto’s and autoimmune conditions are more likely to have dry, dull skin, rashes, hives, pre-menstrual acne and facial swelling, especially if their thyroid levels are not optimized and they are not absorbing vitamins and nutrients correctly.

      THYROID AND SKIN
      https://www.thyroidpharmacist.com/blog/the-thyroid-and-skin

      Reply

  50. I was diagnosed with Hashimotos in Jan. Since then I have changed from Synthroid to Armour and started LDN, zinc, selenium and been gluten free. So far there has been no change in antibodies. I am going on four months with med, diet, and supplement changes. Any suggestions on what might make a difference since nothing seems to be helping?
    Reply

  51. I agree with Lorraine that Lyme and thryoid issues can be related. I am not sure which came first for me, but I have both. The other thing I have to add is that it looks like it’s possible from my history to have both Hashi’s and regular” hypothyroidism. I hope Dr. Wentz can comment on that.
    Reply

  52. Hi there, it seems like you love researching, so may i suggest you look into industrial cellulose? It is one of my triggers, and maybe for others as well, but they don’t know it. I thought maybe i was the only one in the world with this, but when i googled cellulose, stomach ache, there were a bunch of celiac and hashi links where people are saying they can’t do cellulose. At least one dr has even started sending his patients to a pharmacy that will make the meds without cellulose, using ginger root instead. I found out about my problems with cellulose bc i was diagnosed with SIBO (10 years celiac) and i had a horrible reaction to the herbs my dr had me on. Only the liquid herbs didn’t make me sick. I’ve always had a problem w vitamins and we thought it was bc i had low (or no) stomach acid. Which is true, but that wasn’t my issue, my issue is the cellulose that is in most vitamins and many drugs. I figured it out by only eating one thing at a time, including vitamins. I have a particular auto immune reaction, so i could tell what it was i was reacting too. My dr has had to search to find the herbal supplements i need for Hashi, sibo, high hoocysteine, etc etc. My guess is that within 5 years cellulose will be the new evil. It certainly is for me! I am hoping that i’ve found my root cause now: gluten, soy, dairy and cellulose. A week with no cellulose and i feel great. Got a B-12 shoot and it was like rocket fuel– it gave me so much energy. Made me realize exactly how exhausted i’ve been. Oh, and the other thing that really helped my stomach is taking Banyon Botanicals turmeric. I was also taking “Vit U” but stopped bc that also has cellulose in it.
    Reply

  53. Jennie, I am not a doctor of any sort – but I read a lot, & I recall reading that in 3rd-world countries where parasites are common, it has been found that parasites thrive with iron, so to fight ther parasites our bodies might reduce iron (I forget how). Well-meaning doctors who added iron supplements to the natives were surprised to see their patients getting worse; it was because the iron helped the parasites to thrive. So maybe you have a parasite? Nasty thought I know but I had one once, & i hadn’t traveled or been careless as far as I could recall. Here’s one example: http://medind.nic.in/jac/t03/i3/jact03i3p210.pdf
    Reply

  55. In November of 2014 my TPO levels were 984 and after removing wheat, barley, and rye in May 2015 they were 522. I have removed all grains, nights shades, nuts and seeds, dairy, and eggs for 5 wks. I stopped taking my stress adaptogen for adrenals (because there’s alcohol in it) and braggs apple cider vinegar w cayenne pepper and water every morning and I also removed whey protein from my greens drink every morning because of the elimination diet. Now my TPO is 908. Very frustrating! I just started taking GI microb X by pure encapsulations yesterday for SIBO (even tho I haven’t had a bacterial infection confirmed with lab testing) I’m taking it because I have a lot of bloating and gas after eating and I still have athletes foot (itching and skin peeling on my feet) and my right ear is still ringing (but not as bad as it was 5 wks ago). Any suggestions on what to do next? I’m thinking of adding night shades back in since I was eating them before and my TPO went down during the 6 mos I removed wheat, barley, and rye. Does that sound reasonable to you? I’m seeing a functional medicine dr but I’m not sure if I totally agree with some of his recommendations. All he told me to do was to eliminate wheat barley and rye back in November of 2014. I’m doing the other things based on what you recommended doing during your summit presentations. Thanks for all you do!
    Reply

  56. I just love the sharing of the information on this problem.l have a question about this Does alcoholism have any thing to do with this problem. I am a recovering alcoholic and today I have 244 days of sobriety but I drank for years mainly beer but it became worse after I lost my parents and then I went on to hard liquor like Vodka and then Rum! I just feel like I know that this has probably caused some of my problems.
    Reply

  57. Is it possible to be completely cured by diet and not have to take thyroid medicine? My doctor says no, obviously. She comes with my cheap health insurance. If I work on a curing diet and keep getting my thyroid checked, is it possible she will see I am well and back me off my meds?
    Reply

  58. What if you have so many really strange food sensitivities that almost every treatment or diet has stuff in it you can’t have? I can’t have tons of Paleo foods, and many others that are supposed to help. I no longer know what to eat or not eat. I worked with a nutritionist and pretty much got nowhere and all of the things she and my integrative doctor recommended cost so much and come out of pocket since insurance won’t cover supplements.

    Reply

  59. Hey Dr. Wentz! Sorry for the long post, but I should give a little background since I’ve got a LOT of root causes:

    Since 2015, my naturopath discovered my aluminum and copper toxicity (along with very low zinc levels), low vitamin D, Candida, adrenal issues, and now a functional medicine doctor that I recently saw has a feeling that I may have SIBO and/or a parasite, primarily because I’ve been on AIP for months and am still having digestive issues (even when on a probiotic/digestive support and taking the right supplements for my body/personal situation). My antibody count is over 1300, but when I was originally diagnosed and at my absolute sickest, my count was 778.

    I’ve had tests for every possible root cause and know that I do have quite a few (including EBV). I feel almost completely back to my usual healthy self, physically and mentally, apart from my digestive issues and a small amount of excess weight on my hips and thighs that won’t go away (which is likely due to not being on the right hormone dosage). I’ve also increased my NDT from 2 grain to 2.5 today and am feeling wonderful, and may continue to increase since my T4 and T3 could use some raising. I also have a bottle of LDN (0.5) but am refraining from giving it a try until I know my T3 and T4 are optimal.

    Could my increase in antibodies over the last two years be due to a parasite/SIBO? I’m the healthiest I’ve ever felt and have hacked away at multiple root causes and they’re all under control/have improved drastically, yet the antibody count either rises or stays the same. Is it possible for me to go into complete remission from Hashimoto’s if a potential parasite/SIBO is taken care of?

    Thanks for reading my novel 🙂 Hope to hear from you soon!

    Reply

    • Taylor – thank you for following this page, and I’m happy to hear that you are making progress in your recovery. 🙂

      You may be interested in my 12-week online program called Hacking Hashimoto’s that covers all of the strategies that I go through with my one-on-one clients, in a self-paced format, so that participants have access to all of the things I’ve learned about Hashimoto’s without having to schedule costly consults with me or another practitioner. There are a few requirements that you should pay attention to, such as my book is a required read.

      HACKING HASHIMOTOS
      http://hackinghashimotos.com/

      In addition, any person that goes through the program will have the opportunity for a follow-up consultation with one of my thyroid pharmacist consulting members.

      Reply

  60. Hi Dr. Wentz! This was a GREAT article!

    I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s 5 years ago and have been on the Paleo Diet for 7 months (my numbers didnt budge after going Gluten free). My integrative MD recently had me do a Spectracell test and low and behold, my labs came back with quite a few nutritional deficiencies (including B3, Oleic Acid). My results also showed a deficiency in Zinc/Glutamine. IF the Zinc/Glutamine deficiency is my root cause, what should I expect once I start to supplement for this deficiency? How would I know if this is my only root cause and if it’s healed? Would I expect a drop in antibodies? Change in symptoms? My recent Thyroid ultrasound showed “a typical Hashimoto’s Thyroid.” IF a Zinc/Glutamine deficiency is a person’s root cause and is treated, can a Thyroid possibly recover from the damage that has already been done? Thank you so much for your time!

    Reply

    • Ayla – please, understand that due to liability issues, I am unable to answer specific medical questions.

      You may be interested in my 12-week online program called Hacking Hashimoto’s that covers all of the strategies that I go through with my one-on-one clients, in a self-paced format, so that participants have access to all of the things I’ve learned about Hashimoto’s without having to schedule costly consults with me or another practitioner. There are a few requirements that you should pay attention to, such as my book is a required read.

      HACKING HASHIMOTOS
      http://hackinghashimotos.com/

      In addition, any person that goes through the program will have the opportunity for a follow-up consultation with one of my thyroid pharmacist consulting members.

      Reply

  61. Having heavy metals, both lead and mercury, is turning out to be a major root cause. The gluten free made a bit of a difference, eliminating dairy and soy made a bit of a difference, switching to NatureThroid made a huge difference in the neurological symptoms, and I was able to get off of Zoloft. Oh happy day! Adding selenium made a difference. Adding other supplements based on Nutreval testing made a difference. My magnesium and B1 were sooo low! Also, environmental allergy treatment made a bit of a difference. Eliminating other toxins, such as not using plastic food containers, not using fluoride, buying a mattress without the fire retardant layer, and not wearing polyester made a bit of a difference. Eating organic for the fruits and vegetables on the “dirty dozen” list from the Environmental Working Group EWG has made a difference. Not using perfumes and other chemically contaminated shampoos and etc. has made a difference. Using cleaning products such as vinegar and baking soda has been helpful. The six remaining mercury fillings will be out soon. (The dentist is trained and certified to safely remove mercury fillings.) My lead level has dropped (with chelation) from 17 to 13 to 5.5 and the goal (2) is within sight. I wish there was more consistent information about how to detox mercury after the fillings come out. There seems to be multiple opinions about how to detox mercury after the removal. As you can see I have really been “digging at it!”

    Reply

  62. I’ve recently noticed how many of the thyroid symptoms get better with supplements to aid the liver (like choline, nac, inositol, glutamine, magnesium). I’m starting to wonder if the “root cause” of ALL of these root causes is a sluggish/toxic liver. Worth looking into, especially given that the liver is where t4 gets converted to t3.

    Reply

    • Theresa – thank you for following this page. I’m very hesitant in recommending iodine in Hashimoto’s. Although iodine serves as fuel for our thyroid and is very important in iodine deficiency hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s is a different mechanism. It’s like pouring gas into an engine that’s on fire… that’s essentially what’s happening in Hashi’s, thyroid inflammation, and adding iodine to the mix before putting out the fire and fixing the engine may result in further damage to the thyroid. In those with a predisposition to autoimmunity, this has been documented time and time again, animal and human studies. I have spent 4 years researching this and have seen too many people suffering the consequences of adding iodine too soon. My approach is, let’s fix the engine first (usually a gut issue), and then add the fuel once we know that the engine is no longer on fire. Hope that you will check out my book. I have an entire chapter on the iodine controversy that references numerous studies as well as the work of Abraham and Brownstein.

      IODINE AND HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/iodine-hashimotos/

      AMAZON
      Hashimoto’s Root Cause
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

      Hashimoto’s Protocol
      thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol

      Reply

  64. Hello,

    Thank you for this valuable information.

    I was diagnosed with Hashimoto after a general blood test. I do not feel any particular symptoms. TSH to 14, T4 and T3 in the low standard, high antibodies greater than 500. 1 month later TSH at 16 and T4 and T3 in the bass and anti-body increasing standard.
    I decided to stop the gluten and dairy products and I realized a 7-day fast. One month later : TSH at 8 T4 and T3 slightly increased but anti bodies greater than 600.
    A month later, new blood TSH at 7 T4 and T3 still in slight increase but anti-bodies higher than 800.
    Here is what I have undertaken since March 15, 2017 (1st diagnosis in January 2017).
    In three months the TSH has been divided by two, T4 and T3 in slight increase, but I do not understand why the anti-bodies continue to increase. Do you have an opinion?
    I think to continue with the AIP protocol and try different tests, but I do not know where to start …
    Sorry for the translation, I am french and uses google translate!
    Thank you in advance for your answer.
    Guillaume

    Reply

    • Guillaume – thank you for following this page. There are 5 stages to thyroid disease. A person with only thyroid antibodies and normal TSH is considered in Stage 2 of thyroid disease; a person who has an elevated TSH with normal T4/T3 with or without thyroid antibodies is in Stage 3 of thyroid disease; a person with elevated TSH, lowered T3/T4 with or without thyroid antibodies is in Stage 4 of thyroid disease, regardless if she/he has thyroid antibodies or not; and Stage 5 is when the person progresses to other types of autoimmune disease. You may be interested in my 12 week online program called Hashimoto’s Self-Management Program that covers all of the strategies that I go through with my one-on-one clients, in a self-paced format, so that participants have access to all of the things I’ve learned about Hashimoto’s without having to schedule costly consults with me or another practitioner. In addition, any person that goes through the program will get access to a Quick search Q&A Database of 1000+ questions asked by past program participants, Root Cause Assessment based on 100’s of my clients’ root causes and triggers, 2-week Meal Plans, recipes, and shopping lists to get you started on the following diets: Paleo, Autoimmune Paleo, SIBO, Candida. Also, Discounts on lab tests, high-quality supplements, and consultations and much more to support you in your journey! There are a few requirements that you should pay attention to, such as my book which is a required read. 🙂

      Hashimoto’s Self-Management Program
      http://hackinghashimotos.com/

      Reply

  65. Im getting so discouraged on this issue!
    I had some tests done in December 2016. The endocrynologist said its hashimotos (I have no symps) He prescribed levothyroxine. As soon I started taking it, I got sick as a puppy. I was told that my body needs a few days to adapt. After 2 weeks I was feeling sicker, even unable to leave my house. I sent an email to my Dr, he said that I was pretending. I stopped taking the med and went back to my old self (feeling nothing, no symps) BUT, Im loosing weight! I went to see a nutricionist. She asked me to get some blood tests done. She said, if is not something that can be fixed through nutrition, I’ll direct you to the kind of Dr that can help you.
    Today she got my results and sent me to an endocrynologist.. So, Im really discourage. This new Dr might try to treat (whatever the results show) through meds, instead of looking for the root cause. Im very dissapointed.

    This is happening in Ecuador, SouthAmerica.

    Reply

  66. Dr. Wentz –
    Do you have an opinion on Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth and its effectiveness in treating intestinal parasites? I confirmed that I have multiple international parasites through a stool analysis. I believe that this is the root cause of my Hashimoto’s condition.

    Reply

  67. Hi Dr. Wentz, I have read your book and I’m on week 11 of your 12 week program. I continue to feel better and better and appreciate your program and action steps. I remember hearing in the 12 week program and on your webinar about only eating meats like bison and sheep that have little human intervention. Could you comment on this and point me to more resources?

    Reply

  68. Is it possible for the root cause to be Cushing’s Disease? I am currently being tested for it, but I’ve already known for a year that I have Hashimoto’s. I’m only 19 and have eliminated every possible allergen from my diet, gone off grains, and take many supplements–a lot geared toward gut health. I have a lot of symptoms of Cushing’s and I wonder if it’s possible for my antibodies to go down if my Cushing’s goes into remission.

    Reply

  69. Hi,
    I found out I had hashimotos on 8-16-17. Since I stared to take the Armour, I’ve felt better. I have eliminated gluten and dairy. Working on the soy, it seems like everything that is made has it in it. I’ve gotten where if we eat out all I eat is a salad, because I don’t know what in the food. I found some gluten free noodles and tried them, and after eating them felt bad. So that tells me that I’m can’t eat rice either. I’ve lost 10 lbs in2 weeks. Thanks for all you info because it helps this newbie. I’ve never been sick till now. Just trying to figure this out and what I can eat.

    Reply

  70. Hi izabella. Half way through your book. Just implementing the liver support as so sensitive to supplements. Quick question. I have blasto hominis and know you did too. Did you get rid of it with antibiotics or did you manage with herbals? Just trying to get a bit more knowledge to take to my practitioner. It’s goid to hear different experiences. Also my tsh level was 1.5 on last test but t4 was 11 (I am in the uk). Range starts at 11. Any thoughts on this, still feel rubbish but don’t have a Throid diagnosis, just been told I have ME. Thanks for your work.

    Reply

  71. Thank you so much for all your work in this field! I’ve used your resources for the last year and recommend them to friends often. You say in this article that remission is possible, what is your definition of remission? I maintain a restricted diet and feel good after 3 years. Is that remission? Or does remission mean I should be able to add gluten/nuts/corn back in without effect?

    Reply

  72. Hi Izabella
    Reading your website gives me some hope. I will get your books over the weekend. Like you I was diagnosed with Hashimotos at 27 (1 year ago), after giving birth to my wonderful daughter. Obviously, the doctor only gave me Synthroid and said “here, take that for the rest of your life.” But I know there’s got to be something more that can be done. I’ve had other symptoms that doctors have been ignoring for a decade now. Namely I have this little spot in my throat that I got after a tonsilitis that never fully goes away, I can feel it with my tongue and it gets very itchy when I feel a bit fluey. Tried everything, can’t get rid of it. There’s also a spot on my hand – it first appeared as a wart, and I used some supermarket treatment, it went away, but it keeps on coming back every now and again – it looks like an insect bite and gets itchy, then turns into a scab, then completely disappears. Doctors ignore me. Could this be a parasite? Infection? I’ve tried some detoxing and herbal remedies from parasites, but I don’t feel it’s made a difference. Please help, any advise would be appreciated. I have to get better for the sake of my girl and my family.

    Reply

    • Alla – thank you for sharing your journey. Most thyroid conditions result from the immune system attacking the thyroid because the immune system is out of balance. Even when the thyroid is taken out surgically, is ‘dead,’ or treated with radioactive iodine the autoimmunity still persists in most cases. Many people will have their thyroids removed, and will develop new autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc. The immune system just finds a different target. We need to re-balance the immune system to prevent this (sometimes the autoimmunity can be reversed as well). The gut determines your immune system. With the exception of discussing proper thyroid medication dosing, the majority of my website and my book focuses on balancing the immune system. The info I present is based on my own research and journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition.

      Hashimoto’s Root Cause
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

      Hashimoto’s Protocol
      thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol

      IS HASHIMOTO’S A SURGICAL DISEASE
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/is-hashimotos-a-surgical-disease

      Reply

      • Thanks for the response Izabella, I got the Hashimotos Protol book and reading it now. Will start making changes to my diet as per the book over the next few weeks. I’ve been off sugar, dairy, caffeine for a year now, so just need to remove gluten and soy really. I haven’t been eating any meat other than white fish and seafood – should I reintroduce a little bit of organic meat to my diet? Also – lemon juice with water on an empty stomach (as reccommended in the book) gives me a bad stomach ache, should I continue?

        Reply

  73. Hi Izabella. Just curious…
    In this article, you talk about gut permeability and causes for that (mostly nutritional deficiencies/causes). In your DVD documentary you also mention stress and the importance of relaxation. But what about trauma? After some major traumas, I’ve seen how my body is still ‘stressed’ even after meditation, yoga, etc. (diagnosed with PTSD). I’m fairly convinced trauma is my “root cause”. Fortunately, I recently found a practitioner that helps restore the nervous system to its original state. And of course, I need nutrition, diet, supplements, etc. as well to repair and heal!

    Reply

    • Tonia – thank you for reaching out. I‘ve found that an inability to manage stress is often at the core of the condition. Most people can trace back the development of Hashimoto’s and autoimmune conditions to a particularly stressful time period. Stress is inherent, and it’s how we handle our stress that matters. I recommend self-management stress-reducing habits like mindfulness, yoga, and meditation.

      Meditation has specifically been found to be helpful in building resilience to stress. If you have a history of childhood trauma like I do, your stress response could be severely impacted, leading you to overreact and get into a ‘fight or flight’ state at the easiest provocations. I recommend therapies like the self-guided tapping, self-help books, neurofeedback or therapist guided EMDR to reset your stress response. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health/

      Reply

  74. What tests should I ask for?
    I have been suffering with depression, crazy anxiety, heart palpitations starting after the birth of my first son in 2005. Over the past 10 years developed dry itchy skin, tiredness, fuzzy memory, gut issues like flatulence and almost constant diarrhoea. Generally it seems like my stomach reacts momentarily to what I eat. My GP prescribed antidepressants and steroid cream for the dry skin. Blood tests done (not sure what for) that were supposed to be OK. In May 2017 after complaining again, blood test showed TSH > 10, T3 & T4 normal. Prescribed Levotheroxin 100mg, given a leaflet on hypothyroidism and told, no one knows what is causing this, most likely autoimmune and to just take the medication for the rest of my life with annual blood tests to make sure dose is correct. Asked her since I had so many blood tests done my another GP over the years, can she see looking back then was there a change in my TSH for the first time. Asnwer: 2013 but she was not sure why the other doctor decided to shelve the result and do nothing about it! As I was not feeling satisfied I went to a private doctor as I had an issue with a period (that forgot to stop bleeding). I am glad to say, the private doctor seems like a root cause sort of doctor. So far had my female hormones tested for the bleeding: Vitamin D was 22 nmol/L, progesterone 0.2 etc. Re the Thyroid, she asked me to eliminate gluten from my diet gave me high dose prescription for Vitamin D and asked me to come back for Thyroid tests to try to see look for the root cause (as the Levotherxin will not be sorting the immune issue) : Thyroid Profile 2, Urine T3/T4, Reverse T3 but no antibody test?? Should I ask for antibody test? What else do I do? Feeling better with no gluten in my diet but should it be 100% gluten free? Have not been tested for any food intolerance. Was told by my GP my white blood cells were raised and did I think I had an urine infection? Test showed, no urine infection, but was not offered to be tested for any other infection… very, very confused…

    Reply

  75. Great list! One more very common cause of low thyroid is mercury toxicity from low-level buildup throughout your lifetime. Viruses are attracted to heavy metals and once you remove these toxic metals it’s so much easier to recover. Thanks for getting this important information out there!

    Reply

  76. I started a gluten free diet 20 months which is very difficult to follow. I have given in to temptation twice in that period of time by eating croissants, which means I screwed it up and it was then like starting again, no?. I read Fasano’s book then, when I started. The problem is the ‘ gluten contamination’ when eating out. So, as far as I am concerned to be on a gluten free diet is impossible’.

    Reply

  77. Dear Isabella!
    I can’t find my root cause.
    My main symphtoms are bloating, muscle and Join pain. Join pain is in my hands, fingers, foots, hips. It is for more than 10 years
    I have sensitivity on wheat, yeast and kazein.. I have not eaten them for 3 years. I cook, dont eat junk food, and follow lowfoodmap
    My stool test shows, i have no leaky gut, no candida. Everything is ok, except, that too much protein, little high fat in the sampel, and too much Enterococcus.
    My blood looks fine. No high CRP, my vitamin D is ok.
    Last weeks i consume very few animal protein, but nothing helped by this time.
    My Thyroid labor looks normal,
    Do you have any suggestion what is wrong with me?

    Reply

    • Viki – thank you for reaching out. I understand how frustrating this can be. <3 I highly recommend that you work with a functional medicine clinician to be a part of your own health care team. It’s an entire medical specialty dedicated to finding and treating underlying root causes and prevent serious chronic disease rather than treating individual disease symptoms. I believe that everyone needs to find a practitioner that will let him/her be a part of the healthcare team. You want someone that can guide you, that will also listen to you and your concerns. You want someone that’s open to thinking outside of the box and who understands that you may not fit in with the standard of care. It's a good idea to ask some standard questions when contacting a new doctor for the first time. Something else to consider is you can work with a functional doctor remotely, via Skype. You could also contact your local pharmacist or compounding pharmacy, who may be able to point you to a local doctor who has a natural functional approach. But I encourage you to keep looking for the right one for you! Here are some resources you might find helpful.CLINICIAN DATABASEhttps://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/pages/clinician-databaseFIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIANhttps://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/recommended-compounding-pharmacies.html

      Reply

  78. Hi Dr. Wentz,
    I had just consulted with an endocrinologist and she told me that once a patient reduces or eliminates thyroid antibodies, their thyroid gland is dead and no longer active. Is there any truth to that? I’ve consulted with various endos and nobody is willing to assist me with T3 medication. I’m also taking 37.5 mcg of Phentermine for weight loss so I was told that if I’m going to be put on Liothyronine I would need to stop taking Phentermine. I’ve been at a loss since August 2015. I feel that T4 medication alone does me an extreme disservice because no matter how I eat healthy or exercise, the numbers on the scale aren’t budging. Your thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated!

    Reply

    • Heidi – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I am so sorry you are struggling with this. <3 Thyroid tissue can regenerate, but the rate at which it does is not always predictable. Thus, some are able to stop the autoimmune attack on their thyroid and regain normal thyroid function. Others can reduce the dose of medications, and others will need to stay on the medications indefinitely. I'm currently working on some protocols to help with tissue regeneration. Reversing Hashimoto's means different things to different people. For some, it means a reduction in symptoms, and for others, it means a reduction in your antibodies. I had both. Here are few articles that might be helpful for you:

      IS IT POSSIBLE TO RECOVER THYROID FUNCTION IN HASHIMOTO'S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/is-it-possible-to-recover-thyroid-function-in-hashimotos

      REVERSING AUTOIMMUNITY? AND THE PERFECT STORM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/reversing-autoimmunity-and-the-perfect-storm/

      When it comes to weight gain these are a few things to think about.
      1) What was your recent TSH, Free T3 and Free T4? Sometimes when those numbers are on the outskirts of normal, your metabolic rate may still be impaired making it more difficult for you to burn calories. Most people report feeling well with a TSH between 0.5-2

      2) What type of medication are you on? Some report more weight loss with T4/T3 combinations (Armour, Nature-Throid, compounded medications) versus T4 medications (Synthroid, Levoxyl, Tirosint) alone. T4 is a precursor to T3, but some individuals do not convert T4 to T3 properly, and the T3 component is the metabolically active one.

      3) What type of diet are you eating? Some report more weight loss with T4/T3 combination vs T4 alone. Some do not convert T4 properly. The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) full of sugar and simple carbohydrates is perfectly designed to cause us to gain weight year after year. Even yogurts that are marketed as “healthy” contain the equivalent of 16 teaspoons of sugar. Divorcing the S.A.D. is often a step that many of us must take to not just lose weight, but to also feel better. Some diets that have been helpful include the Body Ecology Diet, the Paleo Diet, the Virgin Diet, Autoimmune Paleo Diet, GAPS diet, SCD diet, Weston A. Price Diet, or the Mediterranean Diet. You may need to modify these diets to your own individuality.

      BEST DIET FOR HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/best-diet-for-hashimotos-hypothyroidism

      HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT WITH HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/how-to-lose-weight-with-hashimotos

      Reply

  79. I thought I recently read somewhere in one of your emails or a post that L-Glutamine was not recommended in certain circumstances but cannot find it now, to know whether to continue taking my supplement. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Deborah, thank you for following! ❤️ I generally recommend L-Glutamine for Hashimoto’s and anyone doing the gut protocol. Glutamine is used to treat diabetes and curb carbohydrate cravings, it is an essential amino acid and helps suppress insulin levels and stabilize blood glucose. There is a known link between Hashimoto’s and Type 2 diabetes. Research has shown glutamine to be effective in restoring insulin response in diabetics, so glutamine supplementation may be helpful in addressing blood sugar issues in those with Hashimoto’s as well. You can find glutamine in the form of L-glutamine in bone broth, as well as in supplements like L-Glutamine Powder by Pure Encapsulations. One key thing to remember about L-Glutamine is that for some people it can potentially convert to glutamate which is an activating kind of chemical messenger, and that can cause agitation. If you’re somebody that starts becoming agitated on it, I recommend discontinuing it. It is something that we do want to start low and go slow with. That said, as with all supplements, please consult with your practitioner who’s familiar with your health history before starting any new supplement to ensure it is safe for you. Here is a link to my recommendation: https://www.purerxo.com/thyroidpharmacist/rxo/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=597

      Here is an article you might find interesting as well:
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-blood-sugar-and-diabetes/

      Reply

  80. Dear Elisabeth,
    I have been diagnosed with Hashimoto 6 years ago. My tsh is around 6 to 8, às my doctor allow me to not take levotyroxin if my tsh stays under 8. I take some supplement that help me with the symptoms. I’m still searching for the root cause, and i thought that it comes from my gut as i had a lot of aches. I have some gastroesophageal reflux (with pain to swallow) and thought that it was due to Hashimoto. But lately i found out that i have a candida in my gut. Do you think that it can be a root cause to Hashimoto or it is due to Hashimoto?
    If it’s a root cause if i heal from the candida, will i heal from Hashimoto as well ?

    Many thanks in advance for your answer

    Reply

    • Constance, thank you so much for sharing. ❤️ Yeast is an opportunistic organism that acts up when your overall health is impaired or when your immune system is compromised. Most people with Hashimoto’s will have a high degree of yeast overgrowth, especially of the Candida genus. Treating this overgrowth can be very helpful in restoring health. A note about Candida: Candida can be a primary or a secondary root cause. While conventional medicine underdiagnoses issues related to yeast overgrowth, natural medicine practitioners seem to overdiagnose yeast and may say Candida is a root cause for all ailments. I recommend a Candida protocol for most people with Hashimoto’s. Here is an article that you might you might find interesting:

      CANDIDA AND HASHIMOTO’S CONNECTION
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/candida-and-hashimotos-connection/

      Reply

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