Anxiety was one of the most challenging and disempowering symptoms I experienced when I was first diagnosed with Hashimoto’s. It changed my life dramatically and made me feel like a shell of my former self. I had always been an outspoken, level-headed and calm person, but sometime in 2005, something called “new-onset anxiety” rocked my world.
I was scared.
I couldn’t deal with life.
I was in a constant state of overwhelm, and I doubted myself.
A lifelong social butterfly, I suddenly found myself feeling socially awkward and uncomfortable in groups of strangers (and even friends). I resisted sharing my thoughts and opinions with colleagues and those in my personal life… because I feared I would be judged and ridiculed.
I was always on edge, waiting for something bad to happen. I would almost jump out of my seat when people came into my office at work!
I was a newlywed when this started happening. My husband would go out jogging, and if he was still out after thirty minutes had passed, I would be crying on the floor, worried that he got hit by a car (or worse, ran off with another woman!). I knew that I was completely irrational, but I was not able to control my thoughts and emotions.
I thought I might have had a new-onset anxiety disorder, so I saw a doctor who prescribed anxiety medications for me. I didn’t take them on a regular basis because they have the potential to become addictive, but I kept them in my purse at all times when I left the house, because there were times when I felt like I couldn’t deal with anything without them.
Of course, these medications did not get to the root cause – they were just a band-aid – and I eventually found a way to address my anxiety through the same means I had learned to address the health of my thyroid gland.
In this article, I’d like to explore the connection between Hashimoto’s and anxiety. I’ll cover:
- Do your symptoms indicate you have anxiety?
- The conventional approach to treating anxiety
- Discovering the root cause of anxiety
- Solutions to treat your anxiety naturally
- Advanced solutions when nothing else seems to be helping
Do You Struggle With Anxiety?
Awhile back, I was speaking to a wonderful woman who was struggling with anxiety. She had already seen some major improvements with her Hashimoto’s through the use of thyroid medications as well as eating a Paleo diet, yet her anxiety persisted.
Most people are unaware of how frequently anxiety occurs with Hashimoto’s. A study in 2004 found an association between the presence of a mood or anxiety disorder, and the presence of anti-TPO antibodies. [1] It also noted that a slight reduction in thyroid hormone secretion (such as that found in subclinical hypothyroidism) may affect mood as well. Therefore, it’s possible that the anxiety you are feeling is related to your thyroid. In fact, Trudy Scott, a nutritionist who specializes in anxiety, reports that up to 50 percent of her clients with anxiety have Hashimoto’s!
Let me ask you…
- On a regular or frequent basis, do you have anxiety or feel stressed and overwhelmed?
- Do you get panic attacks, or feel awkward and uncomfortable in social situations?
- Do you have obsessive thoughts or behaviors?
- Do you have a busy mind that won’t switch off, or negative self-talk and problems sleeping?
- Do you find yourself eating to calm stressful emotions?
These anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. I know how awful anxiety and overwhelm can feel, so I’m excited to share that there is a way out, and you don’t have to feel this way forever.
The Conventional Approach to Anxiety
The conventional approach to treating anxiety focuses on using medications, including SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, etc.) and anxiolytic medications like benzodiazepines (Ativan, Xanax, etc.).
There are many well-documented side effects of antidepressants and benzodiazepines, ranging from the rare but serious – suicidal ideation/action, homicidal ideation/action, and even death – to the very common – brain fog, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and feeling disconnected from reality. [2] And as you may have guessed, I don’t think that anxiety is caused by a “Prozac deficiency” or a “benzodiazepine deficiency,” so using them to treat anxiety will only mask the symptoms, rather than address the root cause.
As a pharmacist who once specialized in psychiatry, I believe that most medications have their time and place. If medications can help someone feel better and get through a difficult time in their lives while the benefits outweigh the risks, then we should consider their use. But after my own personal journey with taking back my health and training in functional medicine, I now have an interest in helping people address the root causes of their anxiety and look for solutions that are based on lifestyle interventions (and are free of side effects).
Unconventional Approaches to Anxiety
People do various things in an attempt to control their feelings of anxiety, fear, irritability, obsessive thoughts, frustration, or “impending doom,” as panic attacks have been described by some.
Some people turn to alcohol to self-medicate their anxiety. This is especially common in the situation of social anxiety. Alcohol can lower our natural levels of inhibition while also making us less self-conscious and more bubbly. Unfortunately, this can lead to a dependence on alcohol, and doesn’t resolve the underlying root cause of why we are anxious in the first place.
Some of my readers have sworn by using cannabis for anxiety. While I appreciate and value the role of medical marijuana for various conditions, marijuana in itself is not usually an ideal choice for people with Hashimoto’s. While various strains with various properties of marijuana exist, in many cases, marijuana may also have undesirable side effects, such as forgetfulness, paranoia, fatigue, and getting “the munchies.” Not exactly an ideal treatment for a person with brain fog, anxiety, and weight struggles!
Additionally, in my experience, the long-term use of marijuana can produce or exacerbate apathy, which has been coined as “amotivational syndrome.” I know for many of my clients with Hashimoto’s, the lack of motivation and apathy are already very stressful symptoms.
I’ll never forget a client I saw in my early days as a consultant pharmacist. He was a young man who was smart, handsome and well loved, yet he had a difficult time becoming motivated. He initially came in for a consultation with his father to ask me about whether any of the psychotropic medications (antidepressants) he was taking could contribute to his lack of motivation.
While medication side effects are always a possibility, the big elephant in the room was that he used marijuana every day, even starting his mornings with smoking. His father was surprised that the marijuana could have this effect on his son, as he had used it himself for stress, yet it did not impact his own motivation. We have to remember that every person’s chemistry and situation is different, and we don’t always respond the same way to the same substances!
And of course, another obvious reason why I don’t recommend cannabis for most people with Hashimoto’s is because it’s still illegal in most places!
The Root Cause Approach to Anxiety
On a grand scale, anxiety, just like most other symptoms we experience, is a sign that something is out of balance within our bodies or our lives.
Anxiety could result from blood sugar imbalances, thyroid hormone abnormalities, an autoimmune attack on the thyroid gland, nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, and even other root causes, such as toxins and chronic infections.
Another common root cause of anxiety can be linked to our stress response. If we’ve had traumatic experiences in our lives, this may predispose us to be more anxious and hypervigilant. [3] If we have current situations that are outside of our coping strategies, we may also feel more anxious.
People with anxiety often experience an imbalance in their hormones and neurotransmitters – the chemical messengers that regulate the systems in our bodies. [4] GABA, cortisol, and serotonin all play important roles in brain function, and may be out of balance in people who deal with chronic anxiety.
My approach to anxiety is to address the underlying root causes, as well as use targeted approaches that are safe and effective, to rebalance the brain and body patterns. While the root causes of anxiety may vary from person to person, there are several strategies that work quickly for most people and are easy to implement into one’s daily life.
I love starting with interventions that you can do on your own that don’t require fancy detective work. These include using food and nutrients to balance your mood!
Addressing nutrition and the stress response are fundamental strategies that I’ve found will help 60-80 percent of people overcome anxiety. In some cases, just one of the changes below will be sufficient. For best results, I recommend making all of them a part of your day-to-day life!
For more guidance on supporting your adrenals and your body’s stress response, I recommend checking out my newest book, Adrenal Transformation Protocol. The book provides a four-week program that has proven to be transformative for anxiety, with 86 percent of participants reporting reduced anxiety.
The Fundamental Anxiety Reduction Strategies
1. Balance Your Blood Sugar
One of the most important strategies to reduce your anxiety involves addressing blood sugar issues. Blood sugar swings can put us on an emotional rollercoaster. After consuming carbohydrate-rich foods, some people find their blood sugar goes up too high, too quickly.
This leads to a rapid, sometimes excessive release of insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels). These insulin surges can cause low blood sugar, which can cause unpleasant symptoms such as anxiety, nervousness, lightheadedness, fatigue, excessive hunger, and irritability (or feeling “hangry”, as I like to call it). [5]
You can help balance your blood sugar by reducing your intake of carbohydrates, and increasing your protein and fat intake. A low-carb or ketogenic diet (a low-carb diet where the body breaks down fats for fuel instead of relying on carbohydrates) could be beneficial for some.
Oftentimes, breakfast can make or break your whole day. I recommend starting the day off right by having a breakfast that is filled with good fats (for example, avocado or coconut milk), as well as a good source of protein, while limiting your intake of sugars (even from fruit).
Some breakfast options include eggs with avocados, burger patties, and protein and fat-based smoothies. My Root Cause Green Smoothie, which can be made with Rootcology Organic Pea Protein – Vanilla, is an option I created specifically with the intention of keeping blood sugar balanced. I’ve developed a specific protein powder that is also Autoimmune Paleo friendly: my Al Paleo Protein. Both of these protein-rich powders can be added to your daily smoothie!
While skipping breakfast with intermittent fasting can be a fantastic way for some people to feel better, lose weight and reset their bodies, it can be an absolute mood rollercoaster for people with imbalanced blood sugar and adrenal issues (which is the case for most people with Hashimoto’s), and I don’t usually recommend it. The only exception would be for those who are already keto-adapted and are burning ketones instead of sugar for fuel.
In addition to a good breakfast, I recommend eating frequent protein and fat-containing meals and snacks, to balance your blood sugar throughout the day. Adding fats like coconut oil into your beverages throughout the day can also make you feel more calm and collected. (Just make sure that the beverages are not too hot when you decide to sip on them, as the hot coconut oil could burn your tongue and mouth. #thingsIlearnedthehardway)
Finally, amino acid supplements can help with stabilizing your blood sugar, lessening anxiety. I recommend Amino-NR or Free Form Amino Caps to be taken three times per day. Others have also benefited from using L-Glutamine for low blood sugar (starting with 500 mg per day).
Balancing my blood sugar made a big difference for me, helping with my anxiety levels and reducing my thyroid antibodies. I have written an article that goes into greater depth about balancing blood sugar, and I also developed blood sugar rules I personally follow to stay balanced.
In fact, blood sugar balance is one of the key strategies I talk about in my newest book, Adrenal Transformation Protocol. The book outlines a four-week program designed to help you balance your stress response and increase your resilience, and when you do this, you can reduce anxious feelings as well.
2. Reduce Your Caffeine Intake
If you’re currently drinking coffee, soda, green tea, or black tea, removing or reducing your intake of caffeine can be helpful. Caffeine is a stimulant that can make us feel edgy. It can also lead to heart palpitations and increased feelings of anxiety. [6] I know that personally, I have a limit to how much caffeine I can have in a day until I become anxious.
Some people, who are slow metabolizers of caffeine and do not clear it effectively out of their body, may not be able to have any caffeine at all – not even chocolate! (If this is you, I recommend trying carob, which is a tasty, caffeine-free, Autoimmune Paleo-friendly chocolate substitute.)
Others, who are fast metabolizers and are able to clear caffeine more quickly from their bodies, may be able to tolerate more daily caffeine without it impacting their anxiety levels.
Regardless of your genes and metabolism of caffeine, the weaker your adrenals and the more unbalanced your blood sugar levels are, the more likely you are to experience anxiety from caffeine. This is because caffeine forces more glucose to be produced by the liver, sending the body on a blood sugar rollercoaster that can trigger anxiety. [7]
I happen to be a fast metabolizer, so I can tolerate some caffeine, but I was really overdoing it around the time of my initial Hashimoto’s diagnosis. I used to drink caffeinated beverages six to eight times per day, including at bedtime. I wasn’t aware of how much caffeine was impacting me, until one of my doctors suggested I cut back. One of my biggest complaints was that my sleep was often too light. The slightest noises would wake me up. I was shocked when cutting down on caffeine resolved this issue completely.
Other clients have been able to eliminate their symptoms of anxiety, as well as headaches, palpitations, insomnia, and frequent urination, by cutting back on caffeine.
If you’re thinking about reducing your caffeine intake, I do recommend doing it gradually over time, instead of quitting cold-turkey, which can cause withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and even vomiting. (#thingsIlearnedthehardway) Reducing caffeine intake by about 50 percent every one to three days is a good pace for most people. (You can read more about caffeine and Hashimoto’s in my coffee article.)
3. Remove Reactive Foods
In my clinical experience, the most common food reactions responsible for anxiety symptoms are due to gluten, dairy, soy, grains (especially corn), sugar, caffeine (as discussed above), and surprisingly to some, nuts. Doing targeted food sensitivity testing, or simply a trial of eliminating the suspect foods for a period of time (with an elimination diet), can help you uncover your food triggers.
For me personally, I couldn’t figure out why I had menstrual breakouts and PMS symptoms some months and not others. Eventually, after some trial and error, I realized that nuts were making me nuts! I am not 100 percent sure what it is about nuts that causes this reaction, but I have seen this reaction in numerous clients, especially with almonds. For this reason, I do avoid nuts to this day.
You can read more in my articles about food sensitivities and the elimination diet.
4. Balance Your Thyroid with Selenium and Thyroid Medications
Having an excess amount of thyroid hormone can make us extremely anxious, irritable, and on edge. This is commonly attributed to Graves’ disease, but can also occur in Hashimoto’s.
In the early stages of Hashimoto’s, the thyroid is under attack by the immune system. Thyroid antibodies are a marker that lets us know that the immune system is destroying thyroid tissue.
When thyroid cells are broken down, they release thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. This causes thyroid hormone surges (or a transient hyperthyroidism known as thyrotoxicosis or Hashitoxicosis), as well as mood alterations, followed by an onset of hypothyroidism.
One of the things that can be incredibly helpful with rapidly reducing the attack on the thyroid gland is selenium. One study found that over the course of three months, thyroid antibodies, (which indicate the aggressiveness of the attack), can be reduced by 50 percent. [8] Many of my clients report feeling brand new with a small daily dose of selenium. I recommend Selenium Methionine at 200-400 mcg per day.
Additionally, if your TSH is elevated or suppressed, you may need to initiate or adjust thyroid hormones. The ideal TSH for most people is between 0.5-2 μIU/mL. Levels that are too high or too low indicate an imbalance of thyroid hormone levels and have been associated with various symptoms, including anxiety. You may want to read my articles on understanding your thyroid labs and taking thyroid medications for more information on how adjusting thyroid medication dosages can help optimize your thyroid hormone levels.
5. Rebalance Gut Bacteria
Studies have found that the gut is in charge of producing neurotransmitters, including serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters that is thought to be lacking in anxiety and depression.
Healthy gut bacteria assist with the production of serotonin, so taking probiotics or eating fermented foods may be helpful. (You can read more about this in my post on probiotics.)
If you have obsessive thoughts, you will want to stay away from probiotics that contain Streptococcus probiotic strains, as they can theoretically increase obsessive-compulsive symptoms. (There is some evidence that Streptococcus bacteria can create an immune response, triggering antibodies that may attack bodily tissue, and lead to brain inflammation that can trigger OCD-like symptoms.) [9] Though I haven’t seen anyone worsening with Streptococcus-containing probiotics yet, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
As a side note, if you have obsessive-compulsive symptoms, you may want to test your gut for an overgrowth of Streptococcus. The herb berberine can help with rebalancing this bacteria, and once the bacterial overgrowth is gone, oftentimes, obsessive symptoms leave with it.
6. Supplement with Magnesium
Research suggests that a magnesium deficiency may be associated with anxiety. [10] Several studies have found that feelings of fear and panic can be greatly reduced with an increased magnesium intake. [11] It has even been shown to have a positive effect on both post-traumatic anxiety and premenstrual anxiety as well. [12]
We know that magnesium plays an important role in the brain, where it helps create strong neurological pathways. Even more interesting, is the understanding that magnesium also controls the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis, which is the hub of the body’s stress response system. This could provide some explanation as to why a magnesium deficiency could lead to increased stress and anxiety when the HPA axis is out of balance.
Other signs of a magnesium deficiency include headaches, insomnia, constipation, and menstrual cramps.
I recommend a magnesium supplement throughout the day, or at bedtime if you have insomnia or a racing mind when you’re trying to fall asleep. The citrate version is best if you tend to be constipated (magnesium citrate has stool softening effects), and I recommend the glycinate version if you tend to have normal bowel movements or diarrhea. Keep in mind that, for some people, magnesium glycinate can worsen anxiety symptoms. If you notice that your anxiety increases after taking magnesium glycinate, try switching to magnesium citrate.
7. Manage Your Stress Response
One of the ways to become less anxious is to increase your resilience to stress by supporting the health of your adrenal glands. The adrenals are two tiny glands that sit above the kidneys and produce our stress hormones, including cortisol.
One sign that your adrenals need support is if you are easily overwhelmed, annoyed, anxious, or irritated by others. For me, the ultimate clue that my adrenals are over-stressed and need more support is if I find EVERYONE annoying and/or demanding. If there’s a day when my mom calls to say hello and I’m annoyed, or my sweet little dog gets on my nerves for being a dog, I know that my adrenals need some TLC!
I usually find that my adrenals get stressed after a period of not getting enough sleep. The fastest way to crash the adrenals is with sleep deprivation, and the fastest way to recover them is to get extra rest. The solution? Take a nap, sleep in, or go to bed early!
If extra sleep doesn’t solve the problem, isn’t possible, or you’ve had a long-term case of anxiety, you may want to consider another one of my favorite ways to support the adrenals: taking adaptogenic herbs.
An adaptogen, by definition, is a substance that can increase the body’s resilience to different types of stress, including physical and emotional stress. To be considered an adaptogen, an herb must:
- Be non toxic to the patient at normal doses.
- Help the entire body cope with stress.
- Help the body to return to normal, regardless of how stress is currently affecting the person’s functioning.
Adaptogens both tone down overactive systems and boost underactive systems in the body, and are thought to help normalize the HPA axis. Examples of adaptogenic herbs that may increase the body’s ability to resist stress include: ashwagandha, astragalus, reishi mushroom, dang shen, eleuthero, ginseng, jiaogulan, licorice, maca, schisandra, spikenard, and suma. These herbs have been helpful in relieving adrenal dysfunction when used in combination with vitamins and minerals.
Clients and readers who start taking adrenal adaptogens often report that the people in their lives all of a sudden become less annoying and demanding, and more pleasant.
I formulated Rootcology Adrenal Support to combine these types of herbs and nutrients which are known for rejuvenating the adrenals, into one supplement.
Here are some additional strategies that I recommend to reduce stress:
- Do your best to eliminate, simplify, delegate, and automate.
- Be more resilient by being more flexible. Bruce Lee once said: “Notice that the stiffest tree is most easily cracked, while the bamboo or willow survives by bending with the wind.”
- Spend time doing things you enjoy.
- Orderliness and predictability are your friends. Plan your life that way when you can. Catch up on bills, checkbooks, and your long to-do lists. Keep your space neat and clean. Schedule times to clean the house and catch up on life regularly, not just before big events. Make sure you schedule downtime as well.
- Avoid burning the candle at both ends.
- Massage, acupuncture, meditation, or tai chi may help you relax.
- Avoid multitasking. Do one thing at a time and keep your full attention on it before you move on to the next task. Take a small break in between tasks.
- Start a journal, make your own list, and be mindful of what makes you feel better and what makes you feel worse.
Adrenal issues are common in people with Hashimoto’s, and I have found that supporting the adrenals is a key part of many people’s healing journeys. Healing the adrenals is also crucial in resolving anxiety. In fact, 86 percent of people who have been through my Adrenal Transformation Program reported reduced anxiety. This is why I am so excited that my brand new book, Adrenal Transformation Protocol, is out — you can order your copy here!
8. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a term used to describe being conscious and aware of the present moment. This involves us observing our thoughts and feelings, without “reacting” to them. This is probably the most important suggestion: practicing mindfulness will allow you to take deliberate control of your thoughts and emotions, and is a lifelong strategy that will help you in any challenging situation.
I usually spend time with each of my clients who struggle with anxiety, working on specific exercises and methods to help them get centered and in control when anxiety strikes. These strategies also work to prevent anxiety.
Some of my favorite mindfulness practices include:
- Meditation – This can improve focus, reduce anxiety, and boost hormones. I really like the Muse headband for developing a meditation habit.
- Yoga – Gentle forms of yoga, such as Yin Yoga and Hatha Yoga, have been shown to calm the nervous system and relax the mind.
- Adult Coloring – Filling in a fun coloring book (that does not take too much brain power) can help you focus your thoughts and explore the emotions that might be increasing your anxiety.
- Manifesting – This means being the creator of your own destiny! Set a vision for what you want (or how you want to feel), have a clear intention that your vision will become a reality, and align your actions around your vision.
Whatever you can do to shut down your worried brain, for even just a few minutes a day, will help you in the long term.
Advanced Strategies for Anxiety Reduction
If you have a resistant case of anxiety, or if you are going through a particularly anxious period, it may be time for you to consider some more advanced strategies.
9. Neurotransmitters
GABA is our naturally occurring neurotransmitter that is known to produce calmness, reduce tension and reduce anxiety.
Benzodiazepine medications (that produce central nervous system depression, such as Valium and Xanax) and anti-anxiety drugs target this pathway and are very effective at reducing anxiety. Unfortunately, they are habit forming and produce unwanted side effects. This is because, like many drugs, they have a high affinity for the receptors in our bodies. In very simple terms, they crank up the receptors to overdrive, instead of balancing them like naturally-occurring GABA does.
Luckily, GABA is available as a supplement.
When I first heard about using GABA orally as a supplement, I didn’t think it would be helpful because the molecule size is too large to cross the blood-brain barrier – but alas, neurotransmitters are also produced in our gut, and thanks to the intricate feedback system within our body, taking GABA orally still sends signals to our brain and body to relax.
According to Trudy Scott, who specializes in anxiety, chewable forms tend to work better, as they are more readily absorbed through our mucous membranes.
People who take GABA report feeling lighter, as well as less anxious and less irritable. They may also experience more muscle relaxation and find themselves being able to laugh more. Benzodiazepine and alcohol, on the other hand, can leave us with a drugged feeling, and a sense of “freaking out” when the receptors in our bodies are overstimulated.
Some GABA supplements that I like include GABA Calm by Source Naturals, PharmaGABA by Designs for Health, and GABA by Pure Encapsulations.
10. Reprocessing Past Traumas
If your anxiety results from events that occurred in your past, utilizing therapy may be the path to reducing or eliminating your anxiety. In many cases, this will also help your thyroid.
Traumatic events that aren’t properly processed and continue to haunt us are, in my opinion, no different than walking around full of toxins in our bodies. They are bound to make us sick, eventually. Extensive research I’ve cited in Hashimoto’s Protocol, has established a causal link between trauma and autoimmune disease. [13]
While there is certainly a physical side of Hashimoto’s, our whole body is a system with intricate feedback loops – and in that system, we can’t ignore our mind and emotions.
It took me many years to realize this, but my anxiety over losing my husband while he was jogging, as ridiculous as it sounds, was not just stemming from the attack on my thyroid, but from past trauma as well.
Before I met my husband, I had lost a loved one to a sudden, unexpected death. My Hashimoto’s symptoms worsened after this loss, as did my anxiety. I know I’m not alone in this, as 18 percent of people with Hashimoto’s who took my 2015 survey reported that they had lost a loved one before their Hashimoto’s diagnosis, and other clients have reported losing loved ones as significant exacerbating factors.
While I sought grief therapy for my loss, this sudden tragedy continued to unconsciously replay inside of my nervous system. Many years later, I frequently had dreams, nightmares, and flashbacks related to this loss. It wasn’t until I did a targeted therapy known as EMDR, that I was able to overcome the trauma associated with losing a loved one.
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a method used by psychotherapists to help people eliminate the lasting effects of traumatic events. [14] This method can help people overcome traumatic events when other methods fail.
Francine Shapiro, PhD, who noticed that certain eye movements reduced the intensity of her disturbing thoughts and made her less anxious during a walk in nature, initially developed this method. She tested the method with trauma victims and published her findings in 1989, establishing it as an evidence-based level treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. I highly recommend working with a therapist who specializes in EMDR if you have encountered traumatic events in your past. I assure you, you can get past them.
Other Things to Consider
If your anxiety continues with all of the above interventions, you may also want to consider diagnosing and addressing the following conditions:
- Pyroluria is a genetically-acquired chemical imbalance that can cause shyness, introversion, and symptoms related to anxiousness and shyness, including social anxiety. It has been linked to zinc deficiency, and you can read more about that in my article on zinc and Hashimoto’s. [15]
- Copper toxicity can lead to anxiety, panic disorders, sleep issues, paranoia, and in severe cases, psychosis. [16]
There are a few additional therapies that may prove effective if the above approaches aren’t working for you:
- Neurofeedback – This is a form of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity to help self-regulate brain function. Research has shown its effectiveness for a variety of brain-related conditions, including anxiety. [17] I like the Neuroptimal system and recommend finding a local neurofeedback practitioner in your area who has one.
- Nutritional lithium – This is an essential micronutrient with some chemical properties similar to calcium and magnesium. Lithium has a long history of clinical use for supporting healthy mood and behavior. Mechanisms for this involve promoting the neurotransmitter activity of dopamine (our “happy hormone”) and serotonin (a “stress reducing” hormone). Taken at low doses of 1-5 mg per day, nutritional lithium can help calm anxiety. [18] Please check with your medical practitioner to determine a dose that is right for you.
- Homeopathy – The theory behind this form of alternative medicine is that “like cures like.” In other words, a substance that causes unwanted symptoms in a healthy person might cure those symptoms in someone who is ill. To create a homeopathic remedy, tiny amounts of a natural substance (from plants, animals or minerals) are diluted in water or alcohol, then administered as a means of triggering the body’s natural defenses. Try Rescue Remedy, which is a blend of flowers known to help calm the nerves.
Book Recommendations
I’m so excited to share with you that my newest book, Adrenal Transformation Protocol, has been life-changing for those experiencing anxiety. The book, based on my signature Adrenal Transformation Program, outlines a four-week program to balance your stress response and increase your resilience to whatever life throws at you.
Results of this program have been incredible for those with anxiety – 86 percent of participants reported reduced anxiety by the end of the program. Anecdotally, many people start to feel better within a few weeks. Additionally, 92 percent had reduced mental fog, 89 percent reported reduced fatigue, and 85 percent felt less irritable.
The protocol is truly transformative for people who experience anxiety. I was one of them! Before I started working to heal my Hashimoto’s, part of which included healing my adrenals, I experienced horrible anxiety and panic attacks that left me feeling out of control.
Healing my adrenals was the thing that really shifted me from a constantly anxious state, to finally being able to feel calm, relaxed, and in control.
Adrenal Transformation Protocol is now out, and I highly recommend ordering your own copy!
Here are some other books that I highly recommend for anyone with anxiety:
- Hashimoto’s: The Root Cause
- The Antianxiety Food Solution: How the Foods You Eat Can Help You Calm Your Anxious Mind, Improve Your Mood and End Cravings – Trudy Scott
- Ease Your Anxiety – Joan Rosenberg
- How To Stop Worrying and Start Living – Dale Carnegie
- Getting Past Your Past – Francine Shapiro
The Takeaway
Here’s the takeaway: you are NOT going crazy! Anxiety, as well as other mood disorders such as depression, can be misdiagnosed and have thyroid imbalances as an underlying root cause. Of course, the root cause of your anxiety may be different from another person’s. But with the right interventions, you can improve your anxiety and get back to living out your dreams and the life you have imagined – without fears or limitations.
(Please note: the suggestions in this article are not meant to replace your physician’s advice; please consult with your doctor before adjusting any medication prescriptions.)
Many people who experience anxiety and thyroid issues may also have adrenal dysfunction from prolonged periods of stress. In fact, I often find adrenal dysfunction as a root cause of Hashimoto’s. Anxiety is one of the most common symptoms that shows up with adrenal dysfunction, and I know from personal experience that it may be difficult to fully resolve anxiety without healing your adrenals. This is why I’m so excited about my new book, Adrenal Transformation Protocol! It’s a must-have for anyone experiencing unresolved anxiety.
I hope this helps, and I wish you all the best on your health journey!
In the meantime, here’s an image you can print out to help you remember some of the best ways to help your anxiety:
P.S. You can download a free Thyroid Diet Guide, 10 thyroid-friendly recipes, and the Nutrient Depletions and Digestion chapter of my first book for free by signing up for my newsletter. You will also receive occasional updates about new research, resources, giveaways, and helpful information.
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References
[1] Carta MG, Loviselli A, Hardoy MC, et al. The link between thyroid autoimmunity (antithyroid peroxidase autoantibodies) with anxiety and mood disorders in the community: a field of interest for public health in the future. BMC Psychiatry. 2004;4:25. Published 2004 Aug 18. doi:10.1186/1471-244X-4-25
[2] Ramic E, Prasko S, Gavran L, Spahic E. Assessment of the Antidepressant Side Effects Occurrence in Patients Treated in Primary Care. Mater Sociomed. 2020;32(2):131-134. doi:10.5455/msm.2020.32.131-134; Edinoff AN, Nix CA, Hollier J, et al. Benzodiazepines: Uses, Dangers, and Clinical Considerations. Neurol Int. 2021;13(4):594-607. Published 2021 Nov 10. doi:10.3390/neurolint13040059
[3] Laugharne J, Lillee A, Janca A. Role of psychological trauma in the cause and treatment of anxiety and depressive disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2010;23(1):25-29. doi:10.1097/YCO.0b013e3283345dc5
[4] Martin EI, Ressler KJ, Binder E, Nemeroff CB. The neurobiology of anxiety disorders: brain imaging, genetics, and psychoneuroendocrinology. Psychiatr Clin North Am. 2009;32(3):549-575. doi:10.1016/j.psc.2009.05.004
[5] Aucoin M, Bhardwaj S. Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Hypoglycemia Symptoms Improved with Diet Modification. Case Rep Psychiatry. 2016;2016:7165425. doi:10.1155/2016/7165425
[6] Broderick P, Benjamin AB. Caffeine and psychiatric symptoms: a review. J Okla State Med Assoc. 2004;97(12):538-542.
[7] Sachs M, Förster H. Untersuchungen über die Wirkung von Coffein auf ausgewählte Stoffwechselparameter in vivo [Effect of caffeine on various metabolic parameters in vivo]. Z Ernahrungswiss. 1984;23(3):181-205. doi:10.1007/BF02021472
[8] Wichman J, Winther KH, Bonnema SJ, Hegedüs L. Selenium Supplementation Significantly Reduces Thyroid Autoantibody Levels in Patients with Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Thyroid. 2016;26(12):1681-1692. doi:10.1089/thy.2016.0256
[9] Vogel L. Growing consensus on link between strep and obsessive-compulsive disorder. CMAJ. 2018;190(3):E86-E87. doi:10.1503/cmaj.109-5545
[10] Boyle NB, Lawton CL, Dye L. The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety. The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety. Magnes Res. 2016;29(3):120-125. doi:10.1684/mrh.2016.0411
[11] Papadopol V, Nechifor M. Magnesium in neuroses and neuroticism. In: Vink R, Nechifor M, eds. Magnesium in the Central Nervous System. Adelaide (AU): University of Adelaide Press; 2011.
[12] Fromm L, Heath DL, Vink R, Nimmo AJ. Magnesium attenuates post-traumatic depression/anxiety following diffuse traumatic brain injury in rats. J Am Coll Nutr. 2004;23(5):529S-533S. doi:10.1080/07315724.2004.10719396
[13] Dube SR, Fairweather D, Pearson WS, Felitti VJ, Anda RF, Croft JB. Cumulative childhood stress and autoimmune diseases in adults. Psychosom Med. 2009;71(2):243-250. doi:10.1097/PSY.0b013e3181907888
[14] Valiente-Gómez A, Moreno-Alcázar A, Treen D, et al. EMDR beyond PTSD: A Systematic Literature Review. Front Psychol. 2017;8:1668. Published 2017 Sep 26. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01668
[15] Scott T, Schuler C. How Zinc and Vitamin B6 Prevent Pyroluria and Social Anxiety. Presented as part of the Anxiety Summit; June 22, 2014.
[16] Royer A, Sharman T. Copper Toxicity. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; March 26, 2022.
[17] Hammond DC. Neurofeedback with anxiety and affective disorders. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am. 2005;14(1):105-vii. doi:10.1016/j.chc.2004.07.008
[18]Jones G, Rong C, Vecera CM, et al. The role of lithium treatment on comorbid anxiety symptoms in patients with bipolar depression. J Affect Disord. 2022;308:71-75. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.025
Note: Originally published in February 2016, this article has been revised and updated for accuracy and thoroughness.
I cant believe it! When I read your posts I feel like you are talking about me directly. I thought for years I was just crazy. But i have felt all of these symptoms and probably more. Thank you so much for thinking outside the box and providing information that is truely helpful.
Erika- Thank you so much for your support!! I look forward to hearing your progress on this page! I hope you also check out my book! Here’s the link in case you’re interested. 🙂
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
I have dealt with anxiety for years. I was diagnosed with hypothryroidism and put on naturethroid. The first week on the naturethroid was AMAZING! But after one week I went back to feeling exactly the same. 6 weeks later, doc raised my naturethroid and then again. My TSH of almost 7 came down to 1.6, the antibodies were 10 but I still felt terrible and then the panic attacks set in. Doc took me off naturethroid and put me on Levothyroxine. I’m on Cymbalta for the anxiety and hate it. I KNOW that this is all gut and thyroid related (some of this is due to past childhood trauma) and it seems like trying to find a needle in a haystack to find what my body needs. Gluten free, dairy free and in therapy. I can’t wait for your new book to come out. I felt like my kids have been robbed of the real me. One is a teen and one is nine. Thanks for all of the info and the documentary. Looking forward to your new book!
Traci – I’m sorry to hear that you are struggling. 🙁
I highly recommend that you work with a functional medicine clinician. It’s a whole medical specialty dedicated to finding and treating underlying causes and prevention of serious chronic disease rather than disease symptoms.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
WHAT TYPE OF DOCTOR SHOULD YOU SEE IF YOU HAVE HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/what-type-of-doctor-should-you-see-if-you-have-hashimotos
10 THINGS I WISH MY ENDOCRINOLOGIST WOULD HAVE TOLD ME
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/10-things-i-wish-my-endocrinologist-would-have-told-me
CLINICIAN DATABASE
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
I have been going crazy trying to figure out what is causing my extreme panic attacks and anxiety. It all came on at the click of a switch. My doctors tell me it’s not related to my hashimotos but i know it is. Unfortunately i havent been able to find a good doctor here in Melbourne Australia who understands exactly what im describing, they tell me it’s just anxiety so they put me on anxiety meds. I feels like i go through cycles of ups and downs, one week is great then the next im struggling to pull myself out of bed. It’s driving me insane. I was diagnosed in 2009 but i am no where near the person i was then. I dislike the person i am now and wish i could go back to the confident, social butterfly i once was. If you know of someone in the Melbourne area who can help me, please could you pass on their details.
Rachel – thank you for following this page.
Hashimoto’s is a complicated condition with many layers that need to be unraveled. While conventional medicine only looks at each body system as a separate category and is only concerned with the thyroid’s ability to produce thyroid hormone, Hashimoto’s is more than just hypothyroidism. I wanted to pass along these articles that I wrote. I hope they help 🙂
WHERE DO I START WITH HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/where-do-i-start-with-hashimotos/
OVERCOMING HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/overcoming-hashimotos-in-the-new-year
I thought magnesium threonate was the best version to take. Please explain the differences and benefits of each type…its so confusing to know whats best!
Shona – thank you for following this page.
There are about 20 different types of magnesium, and the Magnesium Glycinate and Magnesium citrate are the ones that I’ve seen people have the most success with.
NEW STUDIES ON MAGNESIUM AND THYROID HEALTH
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/new-studies-on-magnesium-and-thyroid-health
Your articles ALWAYS make me feel better. Sometimes it is hard to get out of your head and you truly feel like you are going crazy and that there is so much more to you anxiety than it simply just being anxiety. When I read about the struggles you went through it does help to know I am not alone and to keep fighting for my health so that one day this anxiety that makes me feel like I am going nuts will go away!
Dani – thank you for following this page. Having Hashimoto’s can feel very stressful. Having out of range thyroid hormones, adrenal fatigue, negative food sensitivities and low nutrient levels can lead to feelings of anxiety, hopelessness and stress. Treating these issues one at a time is the best plan of action. You can recover and regain your health! My new book Hashimoto’s Protocol is a step by step guide to the interventions that helped 80% of the people 80% of the time. I hope you check it out.
Hashimoto’s Protocol
thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol
Hi I realize this is an older post, but I was wondering if you have ever noticed if people have anxiety after their thyroid is basically dead. My doctor said my thyroid is just a shrunken bumpy thing from 2 decades of hashimotos killing it. Anyway I am at my fathers, who was just put on hospice and couldn’t get my medication since I’m out of state. For a combination of misunderstandings I have gone 2 weeks without medication. I am now deeply depressed and have extreme anxiety. This is not due to my father being sick. He has been sick for a year. I’m getting the medication today so should start feeling better. I have dealt with anxiety off and on since I was in junior high. That is when I developed what looked like an Adam’s apple that I had until I was 26 when.a doctor finally decided to do multiple thyroid tests in a month. Before ovulation I was normal, after ovulation my tests were way off. This anxiety is so bad I feel physically sick and I’m extremely depressed. I do take an antidepressant, Wellbutrin. Was on mood stabilizers for a couple years at one point but they couldn’t manage my thyroid, it went nuts. Thus the doctor began to believe it wasn’t a true mood disorder, but hashimoros causing the problem. Can anxiety happen even if your thyroid is basically dead? And does it ever really totally die if not taken out or chemically killed. I was switched to armour and began to feel a bit more normal, no more eye problems and way less joint pain. I am a vegetarian so I’m not keen on the kind I have to take, but it’s me or the poor pig, I have too many people to take care of to not be at my best.
Mary – my heart goes out you! Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. Here are some articles which might help:
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health
HASHIMOTO’S AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-anxiety/
AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-thyroid-disease-and-anxiety
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
ROOT CAUSES OF DEPRESSION AND HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/root-causes-of-depression-and-hashimotos/
My first symptoms were anxiety. Been dealing with this for years, diagnosed 2004, but was dealing with it longer. I have Graves, a Hashi. My TSH never higher than 7.4. My T3 high normal. T4 low. I can no longer tolerate any thyroid replacement, it flares my TED. It makes my Graves come out, my heart goes into arrhythmia. No one knows how to treat it. I’m now hypo, but I bounce hypo, hyper.
Is there anything that can calm the immune system?
Cheryl – thank you for following this page. Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. 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 information I present is based on my own research, in my journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition.
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
You also might find these articles helpful.
HASHIMOTO’S AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-anxiety/
AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-thyroid-disease-and-anxiety
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
I would be interested in reading an article about overcoming obsessive-compulsive.
Jane -thank you for following this page. The most common type of anxiety disorder reported in people with thyroid antibodies is obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is also more common in pharmacists and Type A’s, so I am intimately familiar with it ? Here is an article you might find interesting.
NO, DOCTOR, I DON’T NEED ANTIDEPRESSANTS!
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/doctor-dont-need-antidepressants/
Please write an article about your experience and OCD.Thanks
Tina – thank you for following this page. Symptoms that can often be clues that a person may be having underlying issues with their thyroid are anxiety, mood swing and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) . Here is an article where I talk more about this:
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/myo-inositol-and-hashimotos/
I have skin picking disorder, a type of obsessive compulsive disorder and I would like to know if Hashimoto’s thyroiditis could be related.
Marina – thank you for following this page. Here are a couple articles you might find helpful.
NO, DOCTOR, I DON’T NEED ANTIDEPRESSANTS!
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/doctor-dont-need-antidepressants/
ROOT CAUSES OF DEPRESSION AND HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/root-causes-of-depression-and-hashimotos
Izabella, I would love to hear about how you overcame your past trauma experiences. Thank you so much!
LRK – 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/
Thank you for the informative article! My question is, If I have diverticulitis is there any way to heal my gut to help improve my TPO’s? Thank you in advance!
Please do write an article addressing obsessive-compulsive issues. I have had this issue my entire life, I always have some nasty habit that I can’t quit like biting nails, pulling hair out, smoking up to three packs a day (cough, cough, down to two cigs per day, no inhale now) and for the last few years picking the skin off my arms and fingers. Help!
Wendy – Thanks for your request! I’ll add this to my list of future article possibilities. I would love to hear more about your experiences here on this page!
I lost a loved one, it was sudden and would like to read any articles you write regarding how you got past that. About a year and a half after she passed away my thyroid issues started. Along with the thyroid (hypothyroid) issue I started having anxiety which I have never had in my life. I would love to turn all that around. I’ve stopped eating gluten and dairy, cut back on carbs and after reading this I will now have to cut out corn and caffeine (I drank three pots of coffee a day and loved it). I was shocked as I only thought women had to worry about thyroid issues. For some reason I’ve lost 40 lbs in the last seven months which is the only positive side effect of all of this. I just thought having hypothyroidism would cause me to gain and not lose weight.
Dan – thank you for following this page. I am so sorry for your loss. 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.
Here are some articles you might find helpful as well.
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health/
THYROID DISEASE IN MEN
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/thyroid-disease-in-men/
Thank you Izabella! I also feel like you are speaking directly to me. My anxiety symptoms ALWAYS happen at night just as I go to bed. My heart will begin to pound, mind race and body tingle with nervousness. That is also the time of day I’ve had two panic attacks in the span of one year. Someone suggested it was adrenaline and to have a little bit of sugar. But I never know what to do! Magnesum doesn’t seem to help, or deep breathing or mediation. Someone else suggested Valerian Root or Unisom. Any advice?
Ella – thank you for following this page. My heart goes out to you! <3 Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. Here are some articles which might help:
HASHIMOTO'S AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-anxiety/
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
httpa://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
Thank you for always sharing your truth! I love reading all of your posts and emails.
You had mentioned you may share your experience overcoming traumatic events and EMDR therapy. I would certainly be interested in that!
I have been following you for several years now and always get your emails/posts on the latest information, findings, diets etc. I have been to no less than 6 Doctors to try and get my Hashimoto’s under control. I have changed my diet, had extensive blood work done several times a year and take many supplements to try to reel this in. Admittedly, my numbers in a lot of areas are now normal but my TPOs are still a problem. It’s now affecting my hearing. My left hear has been ringing/blocked in various forms for 5 years now, some days I can hear, some days I can’t hear well, other days it rings so loud I have to jack up anything I listen to. I swear I’m going to make my partner deaf in the meanwhile. I had read a while back that one of your patients had a similar problem with her hearing and was put on LDN, which enabled her hearing to come back fully. I finally found a Doctor that will prescribe LDN but he wants to get my female hormones corrected first. I am currently on bio-identical hormones and I do feel better but now my right hear is starting to ring and act the same way my left ear did. I DO NOT WANT TO GO DEAF! I have to work for several more years and I cannot do that if I can’t hear. The ringing is interrupting my sleep at times too and I don’t hear the alarm clock.
Any information you can give me on this type of effect Hashimoto’s has on patients or that one patient that wrote you, would be awesome!
Theresa – thank you so much for following my research. 🙂 I have seen many of my clients find 100% relief from their symptoms by implementing the AIP diet into their lifestyle changes. The symptoms that many find relief of are joint pain, muscle aches, fatigue, bloating, diarrhea, brain fog, tinnitus, skin rashes as well as decreased food sensitivities. Even for those who do not recover completely, they will experience significant improvement. You have nothing to lose (except for symptoms!) and everything to gain by considering the AIP diet!
AUTOIMMUNE PALEO DIET
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-paleo-diet
Hi, I am really interesting about your yourney when you overcame your trauma. Please write more about this. P.S. so happy to find your articles, I guess I already red 70 percent of them. They are super informative.
Aurika – thank you for your support! Here is an article I wrote about my journey.
MY HASHIMOTO’S AND HYPOTHYROIDISM JOURNEY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/my-hashimotos-and-hypothyroidism-journey
Just a couple quick questions. I started taking the selenium about a month ago and felt extremely better and have more energy even if I have a bad meal day. I didn’t know there were supplements to help with anxiety also so I’m am ordering the magnesium citrate and GABA. Would you recommend to start taking them both or try and one at a time? Is the GABA just to be taking when you feel anxiety? Thank you for everything you do!!!
Emily – thank you for following this page. For questions pertaining to the supplements please contact my team at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be happy to help you. <3
My thyroid was removed years ago and I was diagnosed with Hashimotos. In 2010, I was diagnosed with Celiacs disease. From that point forward, my TSH levels have been on a roller coaster ride accompanied by anxiety and memory issues. In 2014, my endocrinologist verified that I have no thyroid tissue. I was taken off of Synthroid and am now on NP Thyroid. How is it possible — since I do not have a thyroid — that these symptoms are present and continue to worsten?
Monica – thank you for following this page. 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 and journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition. Here are the links to my books:
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol
Yes please…. {if you’d like me to write an article about overcoming obsessive-compulsive, let me know in the comments}.
Thank you for all this information. My medical Doctor will not give me
a med for Hashimoto. They say they do not do this anymore. I even went to an
Endocrinologist. They dismissed me. I have extreme anxiety as I have to fly in an airplane in 2 weeks. Anxiety starts weeks before, even though my daughter I’ll be
with me. Have not flown in 17 years.
MaryFlaherty – you are very welcome. 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.
I also highly recommend that you work with a functional medicine clinician. It’s an entire medical specialty dedicated to finding and treating underlying causes and prevention of serious chronic diseases, rather than disease symptoms.
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Dear Dr. Isabella Wentz,
I have gone through som trauma this past year and would like to hear how you dealt with it and what Emdr was like for you. So far I’ve been having frequent dreams of the event and haven’t been able to recover yet.
Best,
Olivia
Olivia – thank you for following this page. 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/
Yes please write an article about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and a friend recommended St. John’s Wort to help with mild to moderate anxiety levels, I am wondering about this for anxiety related to OCD and autoimmune hypothyroidism issues. Your articles are a blessing and are very helpful.
Dawn – Thanks for your feedback! I’ll add this to my list of future article possibilities. I would love to hear more about your experiences here on this page!
Hi, Dr. Went.
Thank you for your tireless work and dedication. I am learning so much!!!
Please do write about obsessive compulsive. I’ve struggled with this most of my life and want SO MUCH to be free and find relief from this tendency.
Emily in Avilla, IN
oops. Dr. Wentz ?
Emily – thank you so much for your kind words and support! I will certainly add that topic to my list of research subjects. <3
I would like more information on ocd thoughts. I have was diagnosed with Hashimotos 5 years ago. Only recently have I been experience this debilitating anxiety. I recently started working with a functional medicine Dr. Just when I think I have the ocd thoughts licked, they return. Any thoughts?
Bethany – thank you for reaching out. The most common type of anxiety disorder reported in people with thyroid antibodies is obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is also more common in pharmacists and Type A’s, so I am intimately familiar with it ? I can tell you from years of tracking, that my OCD tendencies flared up with rising thyroid antibodies and reduced as my antibodies dropped. Remission helped me become calm and cool, while Hashimoto’s flares brought on OCD. Thus I now consider OCD an indication of an impending flare. Here is an article you might find helpful.
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
Greetings Dr. Wentz,
Thank you for your amazing work on this horrible dis-ease called Hashimoto’s! I’m 65 and have almost all the symptoms!
I purchased all 9 videos, have completed 7 and purchased your newest book.
Two main issues right now that I need serious help with immediately:
1) I desperately need a practitioner in my area who can work with me! I have had only ND’s for the last 45 years but she retired a couple of years ago and I haven’t found anyone to replace her. My zip code is 98506.
2) I’m having extreme food withdrawal symptoms. When I stop my “comfort foods” (pizza, pasta, pastries, dairy, sugar), I’m crying or raging constantly. I’ve gone 3 days to 3 weeks without these foods a few times in the last 2 months and I feel like I’m going to jump out of my skin. I have suicidal thoughts.
Is there a safe substance that will feed my brain to give me the calm, happy feelings that these foods give me? Medical marijuana? A supplement? Something? HELP!! Thank you!!!
PS……I am drug free! Haven’t had a prescription or over-the-counter medication, not even an aspirin since I was 18 (am now 65). No recreational drugs ever. Only homeopathic, herbal tinctures or supplements.
Carole – I highly recommend that you work with a functional medicine clinician. If you cannot find a Functional Medicine practitioner in your area, it is possible to work with an practitioner remotely via Skype or some other online video platform. Here’s a link which might help:
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Hi Dr.Wentz,
I was diagnosed with Hoshimoto Thyroiditis just two days ago. After just a routine yearly exam with my gynecologist he found a nodule on my neck and then sent me for an ultrasound and blood work. Long story short, this is what I have but I am not at the level of Hypothyroidism yet. My doctor has decided to wait until my TSH level reaches 5 (it is currently at 4.4) but another test he ran, Thyroid peroxidase aby, shows 901 (he said normal is 0-60). I have suffered from severe anxiety, depression, heart palpitations, not being able to control my emotions at time, stomach problems, weight loss and headaches that are progressively getting worse, for years. I have been on and off of antidepressants and anxiety meds but nothing was ever done to determine the root causes. Other than seeing an endocrinologist about 3 years ago who told me my thyroid levels were ‘borderline’ and there wasn’t anything that could be done. At that point I figured I would just have to deal with these things for the rest of my life until I was told I have Hoshimoto’s disease. I have felt a sense of relief however, my doctor does not want to start me on medicine yet and has also stated that all of the symptoms I have been experiencing are not related to Hoshimoto’s, I find this very confusing. He says I will not experience any symptoms until I actually reach the point of Hypothyroidism. My question is this, could these symptoms be related to the Hoshimoto’s and what are your thoughts or advice?
I have found your website to be a tremendous amount of help and it has given me a little piece of mind while trying to educate myself on this condition. Any help or advice you have is very much appreciated!!
Kerry – thank you for following this page. Hashimoto’s is a complicated condition with many layers that need to be unraveled. While conventional medicine only looks at each body system as a separate category and is only concerned with the thyroid’s ability to produce thyroid hormone, Hashimoto’s is more than just hypothyroidism. I wanted to pass along these articles that I wrote. I hope they help 🙂
OVERCOMING HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/overcoming-hashimotos-in-the-new-year
WHERE DO I START WITH HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/where-do-i-start-with-hashimotos/
Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. Here are some articles which might help:
AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-thyroid-disease-and-anxiety/
THE MANY FACES OF HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/the-many-faces-of-hashimotos/
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
Hi Dr Izabella,
Do you know anything on the mixture of Buspar (anti-anxiety) & Hashimotos?
I have gained about 6lbs in 2 weeks since since starting it.
Randi – thank you for following this page. Please, understand that due to liability issues, I am unable to answer specific medical questions, but I highly recommend that you work with a functional medicine clinician. It’s an entire medical specialty dedicated to finding and treating underlying causes and prevention of serious chronic disease rather than disease symptoms. Here are some links which might help:
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
MY RECENT CHALLENGES AND FINDING DR. RIGHT
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/my-challenges-and-finding-dr-right/
Hi Dr. Wentz,
The wealth of information you provide has been invaluable to me. I would love to see a post from you specifically about your experience overcoming OCD. My hashimotos and OCD occurred simultaneously about 5 years ago. I was originally put on synthroid and zoloft, which did effectively balance my thyroid and quiet the pure-o symptoms. I still never really felt like myself though, was often tired and lacked enthusiasm. At some point I came off the zoloft and was fine for a couple of years, until a stressful event made the OCD re-emerge. I began taking the zoloft again and once again I felt better, but the side-effects of the SSRI (specifically constipation, something I’ve already had issues with), made me decide to come off of it again. This last year I have re-started an AIP diet and found an integrative doctor to prescribe me NP Thyroid, but since starting my hair loss has gotten SIGNIFICANTLY worse, my anti-bodies have increased and as my thyroid levels built back up, the OCD symptoms started to come back. I have been trying to keep them under control with meditation, which helps, but I find myself wanting to get back on the SSRIs for some relief. I’d love to know more about what you did to get better.
Christi – thank you for sharing your journey. <3 Thanks for your question! I'll add OCD to my list of future article possibilities. Here are some articles you might find interesting.
NO, DOCTOR, I DON'T NEED ANTIDEPRESSANTS!
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/doctor-dont-need-antidepressants/
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid/
FLUORIDE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/fluoride-and-your-thyroid
Hi!
Please write an article about OCD and Hashimotos. After reading this article I tried berberine and it seemed to help! But I’m not sure it’s safe to use for a longer period of time?
Anna – Thanks for your question! I’ll add this to my list of future article possibilities. I would love to hear more about your experiences here on this page. 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.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Please write an article on obsessive compulsive behaviors. I have loved two of your books, Hashimoto’s Root Cause and Hashimoto’s Protocol. The information in your books has given me hope and guidance that fills in so much my doctors either don’t know or won’t take the time to explain . But, I’d like to know more about obsessive compulsive behaviors and what to do to correct them. Also I’m still having memory problems but that could be a result of a faulty MTHFR gene mutation and a need for more detoxing.
I’m so glad I found your website and information. I am so sorry you got sick but, I’m grateful at the same time. Because of your suffering and pain, we have information on how to heal too. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with the world.
Karen – thank you so much for your support and for sharing your journey! I’ll add this to my list of future article possibilities. here is an article you might find helpful as well.
MTHFR
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/mthfr-hashimotos-and-nutrients/
Dear Dr Izabella
I am so grateful for all the advice you share with us Hashis people, and of course I have your book.
My question is, I dont think I have seen anything on body temperature from you. I am past the menopausal hot flushes, but experience something similar several (many) times a day. My head in particular pours with sweat. Causes include hot drinks, alcohol, eating, exercise and stress – this leaves me with very little that I can do!! I also have a cold intolerance, so I am permanently dressed in layers, so that I can whip off, or add on as necessary. Is this something that others suffer with, and do you have any helpful hacks?
Thanks
Hazel
Hazel – thank you so much for your kind words and support! <3 The thyroid gland has been called a thermostat for our body, as it helps to regulate heat. People with hypothyroidism are prone to having low body temperatures and cold intolerance. It’s one of those symptoms that we often brush off, don’t notice and don’t take seriously, but can be very distressful when we do not take the proper precautions. Here's an article that I hope helps you.
THYROID AND COLD INTOLERANCE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/thyroid-and-cold-intolerance
Dr. Isa
I love this article. I am currently with extreme anxiety and very intrusive thoughts. I believe I have adrenal fatigue. I just can’t afford these tests from functional doctor’s.
Any thoughts.
Nadia – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I am so sorry to hear you are struggling with this. <3 Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. Here are some articles which might help:
HASHIMOTO'S AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-anxiety/
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
httpa://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
Dr. Izabella
i have been having really bad OCD. before all this started i was told that i had a benign thyroid nodule and hypothireosis. (tsh was high) Now i’m wondering if all these intrusive thoughts could be linked to my thyroid. 2 month ago i checked my blood and ft4 was little bit high but now all hormones are in order. i never checked anti tpo
Michael – thank you for reaching out. The most common type of anxiety disorder reported in people with thyroid antibodies is obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). I am intimately familiar with it and I can tell you from years of tracking that my OCD tendencies flared up with rising thyroid antibodies and reduced as my antibodies dropped. Here is an article you might find helpful.
No Doctor I don’t need Antidepressants
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/doctor-dont-need-antidepressants/
Thanks for all the great info. Quick question regarding CBD use. Do you know if CBD use will negatively affect TSH,T3,T4 in an individual with hashi? I’ve only come across 1 study that said that CBD and THC combined could cause an increase in TSH http://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/can-medical-marijuana-affect-thyroid-health/ . I recently had a dip in my thyroid function with TSH going from 2.8 back up to 4.4. I’ve been using CBD hemp oil to help deal with some of the symptoms but i was wondering if this is slowing my progress? my biggest symptom that is slowly improving but not by much is gut function. thanks for you thoughts!
Will – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. That’s a great question and unfortunately I don’t have any information to share with you at this time but, I will add this to my list of future article possibilities. I would advise you to discuss this with your clinician. 🙂
I would love to find more information on CBD usage and the thyroid. Most CBD oil has really low THC or none at all. There is a rise in popularity and availablity of this supplement with boasts of helping your immune system. I have had Hashimotos for 11years and then 2 years ago tested positive for EBV. I recently changed my diet to paleo and feel a lot better with a goal of getting of medication. Although this may be unrealistic I am wanting more information on how to really boost myself up and take back control of my mind and body. Brain fog has really affected me. Thanks for doing what you do I really appreciated reading through all this info.
Autumn – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I am sorry you are struggling with fatigue and brain fog. Unfortunately, I do not have any information to share with you on CBD usage and the thyroid. I do have this on my list of future articles. Brain fog is a very common symptom of Hashimoto’s. Often we are told that being confused and forgetful is part of normal aging or that we need less stress. Really, much of our symptoms including brain fog can be attributed to low thyroid hormones and food sensitivities. Going gluten and dairy free seem to be some of the most helpful interventions to help decrease or often get rid of brain fog. Here are some links to get started:
10 MOST HELPFUL DIY INTERVENTIONS FOR HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/10-most-helpful-diy-interventions-for-hashimotosaccording-to-my-clients
TOP 9 TAKEAWAYS FROM 2232 PEOPLE WITH HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-9-takeaways-from-2232-people-with-hashimotos/
Izabella, thank you so so much for this article!! I would so love to read an article from you on you experiences overcoming your trauma. My hashimotos started after my parents separated when I was 17, an incredibly overwhelming experience for me which I never recovered from. I would like to try EMDR. Would love to read about your experiences. Xo
Reilly – you are very welcome! I appreciate you sharing your journey with me. Thank you for the suggestion I will add it to my list of article ideas. 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.
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health
Reilly – you are very welcome! I appreciate your feedback and I’ll add this to my list of future article possibilities. <3
Thank you Dr Wentz so much for all your articles and both books. I have done your Rootcology Liver Reset and lost 16 pounds plus cleared much of my brain fog. Looking forward to doing it again. Wanting to completely heal from Hashimoto’s. I would like you to write an article about healing from traumatic events in your life. I had a horrible wreck with my horse and still have anxiety riding him especially at high speed. I need to remain calm and cool when riding and he will feel the same. Thank you again for all your efforts in helping so many who are struggling with Hashimoto’s to overcome this disease.
Stephanie – you are very welcome! I appreciate you sharing your journey. I am so proud of your for taking charge of your health and being an advocate for yourself. I love your article suggestion and will add it to my list of future article possibilities. I would love to hear more about your experiences here on this page! <3
Very helpful!! Could you please write an article on OCD? Thank you for all your help! ?
Cheryl – you are very welcome! I have this on my list!
Hi, I’m at a real loss. My TSH levels, whilst remaining within normal range has fluctuated up and down 3.4 to 1.7 in one month, then up to 3.8 in one more month. My anxiety is astronomical, such that I actually think I’m developing agoraphobia. This has happened over a few weeks, although has been escalating gradually for a few months. My tsh has generally sat between 2-3 consistently for years without jumping all over the place. My GP insists it is not thyroid related. My t4 is also normal. Is it possible these sudden fluctuations may be causative of my anxiety, which is now causing me some depression?
Any advice very much appreciated.
PS – thank you so much for reaching out. I am so sorry you are struggling with this. <3 Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. Here are some articles which might help:
AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-thyroid-disease-and-anxiety/
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
Please Please send me any advise on overcoming obsessive-compulsive.
Thanks,
Tina
Tina – thank you for reaching out. The most common type of anxiety disorder reported in people with thyroid antibodies is obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Research has shown that myo-inositol supplementation reduces thyroid antibody and TSH levels, as well as improves symptoms associated with anxiety, mood swings, depression and OCD. Here s an article you might find helpful: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/myo-inositol-and-hashimotos/
yes, I would like to know more how you coped with the loss of you husband. I lost both parents, and I was their caregiver and I miss them terribly and cant seem to get past it. I also have Hashimoto’s and love your article and it totally agrees with what my endocrinologist is telling me, starting with the selenium. thank you!
Cheryl – thank you so much for sharing your journey. I am so sorry for your loss. <3 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.
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health
This article I soooooo needed this morning. A great reminder that I’m not going crazy! I have Hashimotos and no thyroid due to RAI a couple years ago and it’s been downhill mostly since. I struggle with debilitating anxiety. I’ve seen several doctors, two endocrinologists, and a functional care doctor (expensive and not a great experience) and still haven’t figured all this out. I do have one of your supplements I ordered to see if that helps. Reading your articles gives me hope. Thank you.
Shaun – thank you so much for sharing. <3 I am so sorry you are struggling with anxiety. I understand how hard this is. 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 and journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition. Here are the links to my books:
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://amzn.to/2DoeC80
Hashimoto’s Protocol
http://amzn.to/2B5J1mq
Hashimoto’s Food Pharmacology
https://www.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Food-Pharmacology-Nutrition-Protocols/dp/0062571591?tag=thyroipharma-20
Thank you so much for your work! Anxiety does seem to be a big problem with me. I find that massages and acupuncture work well. I have been following many of your protocols and have seen many improvements over the past year. My endocrinologist has been great with working with me on the thyroid meds. My TSH was in a downward spiral after going gluten free and drinking the lemon water every am. I think I am just absorbing the meds better. My anxiety was through the roof! He agreed to reduce my meds and took very many blood tests, including the MFTHR test. (I’m ok there). Interestingly, I have been also taking 200 mcgs a day and my antibodies have come down somewhat. I also feel as though my thyroid gland isn’t as swollen and am looking forward to the next ultra sound to confirm that. My question and concern is that I have read that selenium supplementation has been associated with increased risk of diabetes. My mom had diabetes and wondered if you have come across any instances of increased diabetes with selenium supplementation? Thank you again.
Jane – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I am happy to hear you have found a practitioner. <3 That is a very interesting question. I haven't seen any papers on this topic yet but I will add it to my research list. This would be a great conversation to have with your practitioner.
Hello Dr. Wentz,
Thank you for All of your helpful information, personal insights and sharing your own stories; I feel that they must help all of us feel not so alone.
I am surprised to read under your recommendations for magnesium, that you do not include mag theronate. I have been taking Mag Citrate and just learned that theronate is much better for those with thyroid issues. (I was Dx in October w/Hashi’s Hypo… altho ultrasound shows my thyroid to be extremely damaged so I’ve had it for many years).
Thank you in advance for your thoughts on this.
Leslie
Leslie – thank you for your feedback. <3 There are about 20 different types of magnesium and the Magnesium glycinate and Magnesium citrate are the ones that I've seen people have the most success with. Here is article you might find interesting:
NEW STUDIES ON MAGNESIUM AND THYROID HEALTH
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/new-studies-on-magnesium-and-thyroid-health
My almost 17 y.o. son has just been diagnosed with Hashimoto. I have been asking our pediatrician for sometime and finally demanded that my son be referred to pediatric endo. There are 5 females in the family that have been diagnosed with hypothyroidysm. My mom, his grandma had thyroid cancer, she is on synthroid now and doing OK. Its my 3rd year after being diagnosed and my doc is still adjusting my meds every 3 mo. My son is severely depressed and anxious. I knew that his thyroid has something to do with that since he was on several antidepresants, mood stabilizers, anti anxiety meds, etc. My question is, the pediatric endo, doesn’t want to put him on meds now because he is still a teenager and his hormones are still changing. She wants to re-due the blood work in two months and then see us at the end of November. His antibodies are 10 and 16 times higher than norm and his TSH is 6.8. Should I wait and follow the endo advise or should I look for the functional doctor and add vitamins and minerals you mentioned in your books and articles. Right now my son is on Wellbuterin XL 300 mg to help with depression.
Thank you so much,
Irina – thank you so much for reaching out. I am so sorry to hear about your son. My heart goes out to you both. <3 For children, teens, (and adults), I always recommend starting with the diet. Are they gluten, dairy, corn and soy free? Are they eating a nutrient dense diet with fermented foods?
Implementing those changes can help many symptoms. For example, some cases of anemia can be helped by eating liver, others may resolve by going gluten free. Acid reflux is often caused by food sensitivities. Most of the interventions recommended in my book can be done with children, with the exception of the dosing of supplements. I do suggest that you work with a functional medicine doctor that is familiar in working with children (I only works with adults). I hope this helps!
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/database-recommended-clinicians/
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
Hello Dr. Wentz,
Quick question about GABA. Is there a problem with taking armour thyroid and GABA. I thought I read on a study with mice that it may reduce t4 or inhibits thyroid function. I know that lithium orotate does and wanted to check. I was thinking about getting the pure brand that has the highest amount of 750mg. Thanks!
Jasmin – thank you for reaching out. <3 Thyroid medication absorption can be impacted by many things, including food, other medications, and supplements. Thyroid medication should be taken on an empty stomach, one to two hours before eating, taking other medications, supplements or coffee to ensure appropriate absorption. Antacids such as Tums, iron, magnesium, and calcium supplements can impair the absorption of thyroid medications. Thus, you need to have at least 4 hours of time in between your thyroid medications and these agents. Please be sure to read the directions provided with the medication. I hope you find this free ebook helpful. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/meds-ebook/
Diagnosed with Hashimoto back in September. Anxiety seems to be high like a roller coaster. I know that’s normal, just aggravating that it can show it’s ugly head out of nowhere. It is normal to take Buspar or Xanax for it? Or just deal with it and let it runs is crazy course?
Janet – thank you so much for reaching out. <3 I'm so sorry you are struggling with anxiety! I understand how hard this is. Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. I believe that most medications have their time and place. If medications can help you feel better and get through a difficult time in you life while the benefits outweigh the risks, then we should consider their use. But after my own personal journey with taking back my health and training in functional medicine, I now have an interest in helping people address the root causes of their anxiety and look for solutions that are based on lifestyle interventions and are free of side effects. Here are some articles you may find helpful:
ARE YOU GOING CRAZY OR IS IT JUST YOUR THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-you-going-crazy-or-is-it-just-your-thyroid
HASHIMOTO’S AND OUR EMOTIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-our-emotions
AUTOIMMUNE THYROID DISEASE AND ANXIETY
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-thyroid-disease-and-anxiety
Hi Izabella,
I have suffered with anxiety and OCD on and off for years.
My mum has exactly the same mental heath issues as me.
she has an underactive thyroid and I think it is an autoimmune disorder, since using thyroxin she has been fine.
I took a thyroid test the other day during my anxiety episode and it showed elevated FT3 8.9, all other results were in range. (im 33)
Are you able to recommend a next step for me to get a clearer picture of what may be triggering the anxiety attacks/OCD with relation to the above result?
I have also sent off for an adrenal blood test and will get my results next week.
Thanks!!!
Mitchell – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey as well as your mom’s. <3 I understand how hard this can be. Anxiety symptoms are very common in people with thyroid disorders. Please understand, I am not able to advise on whether this supplement would be appropriate for you and your specific health needs without a comprehensive health assessment. I recommend that you discuss this with your personal doctor. 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 DATABASE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/database-recommended-clinicians/
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
COMPOUNDING PHARMACIES
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/database-recommended-compounding-pharmacies/
Hello Dr.Wentz, I listened to all your modules and own several of your books. 40 years ago developed Hashimoto after the birth of my daughter. Now dairy/egg free free, less sugar and mostly gluten free. The AID diet. Was doing and feeling great! My endocrinologist told me to go down from 150 to 137.5 Synthroid in Sept. She said: Patients over 70 years of age do not need 150. It has been a rollercoaster since. Yes, I have been under stress. We lost several rentals during the fires 2 years ago and rebuilding was not easy. And the world condition is not helping either! Waking up at night. I am dealing with these horrible anxiety attacks coming from nowhere. My TPO has fluctuated a lot. My Funct.Dr. upped it to 150 and then to 175. But 175 made it all worse. So I am now back to my normal 150. He put me temporarily on Lorazepam to deal with the anxieties at night. That has helped somewhat and trying to cut down and change to GABA. My big question: when one of those attacks start, heart pounding restlessness it can go on for 12 hours. I try to distract myself but it continues. My gut is in great shape, thanks to you! In general I love hiking biking etc. 2 Days ago I did a strenuous hike, felt great but that night it put me in one of those attacks, but this makes me super tired and depressed. Was a strenuous hike the reason? How can I control that anxiety and cut that cycle? Wonder if I could schedule a session with one of your teams? Appreciate all you do!
Henriette – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey.❤️ It’s important to listen to your body and stop when you are tired. Overexercising can create stress, which in turn causes our adrenals to pump out extra hormones, and shifts our body from a relaxing, digesting, healing state to a fight or flight state. Adrenal imbalances are very common in Hashimoto’s patients. Treating hypothyroidism without treating the adrenals is one of the biggest reasons people continue to feel exhausted despite receiving treatment with thyroid hormones. Stress seems to be a precursor to hypothyroidism. Additionally, taking thyroid hormones can actually help us clear out our adrenal hormones faster, which then leads to adrenal fatigue. So, it’s a complicated relationship that has a lot of back and forth. You also may be interested in this article I wrote.
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
http://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-heal