Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD

Thyroid Pharmacist

How a Green Smoothie ccan Help Your Thyroid

How a Green Smoothie Can Help Your Thyroid

Medically reviewed and written by Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP

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In my early days of learning to live with Hashimoto’s and making changes to my diet, I hit a particular challenge when it came to figuring out what I was going to eat for breakfast.

Before I realized that dairy was causing me to have severe reflux, I would make a smoothie every morning, filled with whey protein and Greek yogurt. However, within three days of cutting out dairy and gluten, my acid reflux, bloating and irritable bowel syndrome vanished!

It was incredible! This was right before I started a new job and had some time to really work on my diet. During the first few weeks of my job, I also had in-home training. I made variations of eggs for breakfast each morning, and homemade salads with veggies and meat, during the day. I felt great. But then my job training finished, and I had to spend most of my time on the road driving all around Chicagoland… (I had just started a job in pharmaceutical sales.)

I didn’t have time to make eggs, and I wasn’t quite sure what to eat for breakfast (or for snacks), so I began eating gluten-free junk food (soy, rice, and corn-based-cereal products with rice milk)… gluten-free and dairy-free, right? While the reflux was gone for good, I quickly found myself “hangry” (hungry + angry) all the time, due to blood sugar swings caused by the lack of protein and all of the carbs! Once, I even almost fainted during a ride-along with my new boss (I think I had reactive hypoglycemia from all of the carbs!).

Furthermore, I hadn’t realized that soy is actually a common food sensitivity that can lead to an increase in thyroid antibodies. Though I initially felt better off dairy and gluten when I was eating eggs, my symptoms came back (and my thyroid antibodies more than doubled!) from the blood sugar swings and the soy.

It wasn’t until a few months later that I started thinking back on the breakfast smoothies I used to make. I wondered if I could use the information I had learned about the effects of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates on blood sugar (in a certification course for pharmacists in Advanced Diabetes Care I was taking) to make my morning meal a more Hashimoto’s-friendly one…

Read on to learn:

  • Why you should start your day with a smoothie
  • How a green smoothie can benefit your thyroid
  • My favorite smoothie recipe
  • How to customize your own smoothie

Why You Should Start Your Day with a Smoothie

Proper nutrition can make a huge difference in how a person with Hashimoto’s feels.

Most of my clients with Hashimoto’s present with food sensitivities, poor digestion, and blood sugar abnormalities, which can perpetuate thyroid autoimmunity, as well as cause many unpleasant symptoms. These can include anxiety (especially due to gluten sensitivities and blood sugar issues), fatigue, and breakouts (often related to dairy, nuts, or eggs).

Additionally, food sensitivities can lead to gut inflammation, which may prevent us from properly absorbing nutrients from our food. This puts the body in a “conserve” and “hold onto resources” mode, leading to weight gain or weight loss resistance.

Food pharmacology, or using food as medicine, has become foundational in my approach to healing with Hashimoto’s. Since breakfast is the first time we put food into our bodies each day, it only makes sense that we pay particular attention to what we eat, when we start our day.

While many people may be tempted to skip breakfast, due to busy schedules or weight loss strategies (such as intermittent fasting), I don’t recommend this for most people with Hashimoto’s.

I believe that thyroid issues often develop as an adaptive mechanism to us not feeling safe in our environment. A scarcity of food (along with overexercising, nutrient deficiencies, stress, etc.) can send signals to our body that our environment is not safe. The body responds by slowing down our metabolism in order to conserve energy and resources, eventually leading to autoimmune thyroid disease.

Therefore, it’s important to create a sense of safety for our bodies, and one way we can do that is by eating meals on a regular basis so that it knows that food is not scarce, and that it doesn’t need to downregulate the metabolism to compensate.

Another reason it’s important to begin the day with a nutritious breakfast is to maintain blood sugar balance. Many people with Hashimoto’s experience blood sugar irregularities, which create stress in the body and can lead to increased thyroid antibodies, adrenal fatigue, and even diabetes. Eating on a regular basis throughout the day, with a focus on fats and proteins, helps us maintain consistent blood sugar levels and avoid the high and low swings that come from skipping meals and eating carbohydrate-rich foods.

So, now that we’ve established the importance of starting the day with a good breakfast, which breakfast is best?

What Makes a Smoothie Thyroid-Friendly?

Looking back at my days of starting the morning with a dairy-laden smoothie, I realized that, while my dairy-based smoothie was horrible for my acid reflux, it did a good job of stabilizing my blood sugar, due to the protein and fat content. In contrast, the carb-rich rice/corn cereals and rice milk I had experimented with, sent me on a blood sugar roller coaster.

Fats slowly raise blood sugar and keep it stable for up to 4 hours; proteins cause it to rise a little faster, and keep blood sugar stable for 2-3 hours. Carbohydrates, on the other hand, raise our blood sugar quickly, and one can see a decline in blood sugar in as little as 30-60 minutes (assuming the same amount of each eaten) after eating carbohydrates.

How Macronutrients Impact Hunger Infographic

With this in mind, I set out to create a smoothie that would be energizing, filling, packed with nutrition, and also beneficial for my thyroid.

Let’s take a look at the components of a smoothie that I consider to be essential for thyroid health.

Healthy Fats

Although we’re finally coming out of the decades we spent fearing fat, there’s still a lingering mindset that keeps us from eating enough of this energy-rich macronutrient. I encourage you not to fear fat; it’s essential for brain function, healthy skin, shiny hair, and cell membrane formation.

Fat also helps keep us full, doesn’t impact blood sugar, and gives us plenty of energy to start our day.

The important caveat is to choose fats from healthy sources, avoiding all trans fats and processed vegetable oils, such as soybean and canola. As dairy is problematic for most people with Hashimoto’s, I also recommend avoiding any types of milk or yogurt from dairy.

I use coconut milk as a hypoallergenic source of fat in my smoothie, as it can help reduce inflammation and stabilize blood sugar due to its (good) fat content. Adding an avocado increases the fat/blood sugar stabilizing content, and gives the smoothie a “pudding” like consistency that I love. 🙂 Other healthy fat options include omega-3s from chia seeds, flax, or fish oil. (Quality brands, like Nordic Naturals, don’t taste fishy at all!)

Safe Protein

Adequate protein intake is crucial for those with Hashimoto’s, because many of the essential and non-essential amino acids which make up protein, are required for thyroid function, gut repair, and immune function. Without these amino acids, our bodies can’t perform their basic functions of keeping us alive, much less repair the damage from autoimmune disease. (Read my protein article for more information about the importance of protein for Hashimoto’s.)

Additionally, getting enough protein is crucial for blood sugar balance, and animal protein also contains nutrients which are critical for healthy thyroid function. These include selenium, zinc, iron, and B12.

I searched far and wide for a protein I could tolerate. I tried egg-white protein, but I quickly ended up with an egg sensitivity, which showed up as cystic acne. Furthermore, my hair became more dull and my skin became more gray. 🙁 Eggs are a common reactive food for Hashimoto’s, and I didn’t realize at the time that egg whites contain a protein called avidin that may deplete biotin, an important vitamin for skin and nails. This was almost 10 years ago, and while some brands of egg white proteins don’t contain avidin, I don’t recall the product I used to see if it contained avidin.

I then began to experiment with rice protein, pea protein, and hemp protein. I didn’t do well with rice protein, but did well with hemp and pea. These are two proteins that are well tolerated by many people with Hashimoto’s. However, after my own remission and my venture into focusing on helping others with Hashimoto’s, I wanted to find a protein that was truly hypoallergenic and compliant with the autoimmune protocol that some of my clients needed to follow.

After many years of searching, working with supplement companies and saving up, I created the first (to my knowledge) autoimmune protocol friendly protein in 2017…

Rootcology AI Paleo Protein contains hydrolyzed beef protein that is free of any fillers and is compliant with even the strictest autoimmune protocol. It’s very tasty, too! Surprisingly, it doesn’t taste like beef, rather, it has a slight milky taste — I personally love it. 😉

I also decided to include a vanilla flavor option for those that follow the Paleo diet and want some variety. Please note that it does contain stevia and some light additives. Some people do enjoy the extra flavoring and compare it to vanilla ice-cream!

Last, but not least, I have Rootcology Organic Pea Protein, which is made from organic peas, and is gluten free, dairy free and soy free, as well as vegetarian/vegan friendly. The carbohydrate component of the peas has been removed, leaving just the protein. It’s considered to be hypoallergenic and well tolerated by many people with autoimmunity, though it’s not considered to be compliant with the Autoimmune Paleo diet and is a “Paleo controversial food.”

Cleansing Greens

Nutrient-rich greens, such as kale, spinach, and chard, are a wonderful source of chlorophyll, which has been shown to help support the process of detoxification in the liver, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, raise iron levels, and even work as a natural deodorant by neutralizing odors. They’re also a great source of fiber, which helps remove toxins and excess hormones from the digestive system. Additionally, green plant food is full of micronutrients that are critical for thyroid health, including potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and B vitamins.

Including greens in your smoothie is a particularly good way to consume them if you are experiencing digestive difficulties. As the vegetables are chopped up in the blender, the food becomes easier to digest, and the nutrients are more readily absorbed.

Superfoods

The great thing about a smoothie is that it is completely customizable — meaning you can add in whatever foods your body needs that day. Once you have your protein, fat, and greens as a base, you can choose the superfoods that your body is craving.

For hormone stabilization, you might consider a tablespoon of maca root powder (as long as you are not sensitive to it). For increased omega-3 fatty acids, you could add flax or chia seeds. On days you need a little extra brain boost, add in some MCT or coconut oil. The possibilities are endless!

The “Root Cause Green Smoothie”

My favorite green smoothie is packed with nutrition for your thyroid, helps to reduce inflammation, and can help with detoxification. I start my day with this recipe every morning, and it has transformed my day! I now recommend beginning the day with a green smoothie to all of my clients, who have shared similar transformative results.

It combines a hypoallergenic protein source with fat (from coconut milk) and fiber (from veggies).

As the smoothie is blended into tiny particles, it is much easier to digest compared to a regular breakfast, for those of us who have digestive issues (always “chew” the smoothie anyway, to help activate your digestive process), making the nutrients more readily available. This in turn leaves us with more energy.

Sea salt (added to taste) can help with supporting the adrenals, which are often stressed in people with Hashimoto’s. Sodium has gotten a bad rap in the medical industry. However, it is crucial for regulating fluids in the body. Salt nourishes the adrenals and provides the minerals, such as potassium and magnesium, that our body needs. I recommend using sea salt or pink Himalayan salt, as opposed to table salt or iodized salt.

Of the people with Hashimoto’s that I surveyed, 69 percent who have tried the “Root Cause Green Smoothie” have said that it helps them feel less hungry, more relaxed, and calm. It also gives them plenty of energy.

The Root Cause Green Smoothie

The Base Recipe

Ingredients

All you need to do is blend the above ingredients in a Vitamix or other blender, and enjoy it as a low-glycemic breakfast, lunch, or snack!

Optional Boosts to Customize Your Smoothie

Have fun and build your own smoothie to suit your tastes and nutritional needs. Here are a few ideas you can incorporate:

For added fats:

  • Cod Liver Oil – This anti-inflammatory oil is a great source of both DHA and EPA (omega-3 fatty acids), along with vitamins A and D.
  • Chia seeds – Chia seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, iron, and calcium.
  • Flax seeds – I love flax seeds! They’re full of a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which has been tied to improved circulation and anti-inflammatory effects. (Read more in my article on omega-3 fatty acids.)

To boost the immune system:

  • Citrus fruit – Lemons and oranges are rich sources of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, helps manage blood pressure, and is important in collagen production (among many other benefits).
  • Camu powder – Camu is a berry that is harvested from the rainforests of Peru and is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Studies have shown that it may help balance blood sugar, reduce inflammation, reduce weight, and manage blood pressure. Camu has a tart berry flavor and makes a tasty smoothie addition!

For digestive support:

  • Green banana flour – A rich source of insoluble fiber, green banana flour is an excellent source of prebiotics that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote intestinal health.
  • Collagen – Collagen helps rebuild the intestinal lining, while supporting joint health, skin, and hair.
  • Turmeric powder – Turmeric a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps heal the gut and detoxify heavy metals.

For increased energy:

  • Coconut oil – Coconut oil contains healthy fats known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that, when consumed, go straight to the liver and are used as “quick” energy sources.
  • Bulletproof XCT oil – Made of pure caprylic and capric acid, two significantly ketogenic MCTs found in coconut oil, this special blend helps to fuel the brain and increase energy levels.

For hormonal balance:

  • Maca root powder – This wonderful adaptogen helps increase body temperature and stabilizes hormones.
  • Blueberries – Blueberries are an antioxidant powerhouse and rich source of myo-inositol, which supports overall relaxation, helps maintain the proper metabolism of serotonin, helps to regulate insulin, and stabilizes TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone).

Taste Hacks

While most people who have tried the green smoothie love it, there are some people (ahem, my husband Michael) who may not like the pudding-like texture/consistency and warmth of the smoothie.

He prefers the smoothie to have a thinner, milk-like consistency, and he also prefers it to be “cold and tropical tasting” (his words :-)).

For Michael’s green smoothie, I make the following taste/texture modifications…

  • Skip the avocado and add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds instead, as chia seeds are a less creamy source of good fat
  • Add the juice of one lemon or lime (to make it more tropical, and to support our digestive juices)
  • Blend the contents with 1 cup of ice cubes to make the smoothie cold and give it a more “milky” consistency

While the carrots and coconut are usually naturally sweet enough, if you are coming off the Standard American Diet, you may want to add a boost of fruit, like a ¼ cup of berries or ½ green apple, as your taste buds transition to appreciating the natural sweetness in coconuts and carrots.

Here are some additional blood sugar-balanced smoothie options, in case you want to change things up, or add a second smoothie variation to your day:

Maca Cado Smoothie

  • 1 tsp maca
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 avocado
  • 1 cup mixed baby greens
  • 1 scoop of Rootcology protein powder of choice

Root Cause Healing Smoothie

  • 2 egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 2 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp collagen
  • 1 scoop of Rootcology protein powder of choice

Garden Sprouts

  • 1/2 cup broccoli sprouts
  • 1 carrot
  • 1/2 cup baby kale
  • 1 stalk celery
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup green juice
  • 1/4 cup Italian parsley
  • 1/2 cup dandelion greens
  • 1/4 cup alfalfa sprouts
  • 1 scoop of Rootcology protein powder of choice

The Takeaway

Beginning the day with a nutritious source of protein, fat, and fiber is an important part of feeling better with Hashimoto’s. But you can also incorporate my go-to smoothie into your day for an easy lunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up! Use your favorite superfoods to customize it to your own needs, and add in your favorite veggies and fruits that are in season and accessible to you.

Adding a green smoothie into your day will provide you with energy, blood sugar stabilization, brain power, and detoxification, to help you feel your best.

Try out the Root Cause Green Smoothie for a few days, and let me know how you like it!

P.S. You can also “Subscribe and Save” to get instant savings on every order. This is a great way to reserve your protein each month. And now you can bundle your purchases and save an additional 5% off 3 containers, and 8.75% off 6 containers, of the protein of your choice!

P.P.S. What are people saying?

  • Jeri S. shared with me, “Thank you for the Pea Protein Powder. I love the taste and it makes me feel great. No digestive issues like some protein powders I have tried. Thank you. I look forward to purchasing it again.”
  • Dorrie S. shared about the AI Paleo Protein, “I have had a progressively advancing autoimmune disorder for 20 plus years and tried all protein powders out there. This is the only one I did not react to and feel great taking. I have the confidence I’m getting what my body needs.”

Have you tried Rootcology protein powder? If so, how did it improve your symptoms? I’d love to hear your success stories!

Wishing you all the best on your thyroid journey!

P.S. For continued updates and interaction, please become a part of our Facebook and Instagram communities and sign up for our newsletter. I love interacting with our readers!

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult your physician for any health problems and before making any medical or lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle changes can result in improved thyroid function and/or an increased absorption of thyroid hormone medications, leading to a lower required dose and possible symptoms of hyperthyroidism at a dose that was previously stable. Please discuss lifestyle changes with your physician and ensure that your thyroid function is monitored every 6-8 weeks while making lifestyle changes. Symptoms of overmedication include, but are not limited to: rapid or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, irritability or mood swings, muscle weakness or tremors, diarrhea, menstrual irregularities, hair loss, weight loss, insomnia, chest pain, and excessive sweating. Do not start, change, increase, decrease or discontinue your medications without consulting with your physician.

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  1. Our green smoothie is delicious – we have 2 sticks each of kale, celery, silver beet, 1 x apple and banana, a few pieces of frozen mango, chia seeds, mint and ginger every morning. I think we are addicted as when we go away we really miss it!
    Reply

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

      http://rootcauserecipes.com/

      Reply

          • I wanted to know does this work for Graves’ disease? I’ve been suffering from this horrible disease since 2011 and I’m ready for healing and change! Please help Dr. Izabella.
            Thank you

          • Kecia – thank you for reaching out and sharing. <3 My protocols are designed to help those with thyroid autoimmune disease heal by focusing on gut health, nutrient deficiencies, and root cause discovery and treatment. Graves and Hashimoto's are both autoimmune conditions that affect the thyroid. They are thought to be closely related. Sometimes one turns into the other. The difference is the site of the antibody attack. In Hashimoto's, the antibodies are found to thyroglobulin (in 80%) and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) enzyme (in 95% of people) Hashimoto's results in hypothyroidism and is usually treated with Synthroid and replacement hormone.

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

            Most thyroid conditions result from the immune system attacking the thyroid because the immune system is out of balance. Even when the thyroid is taken out surgically or treated with radioactive iodine the autoimmunity still persists in most cases. Many people will have their thyroids removed, and will develop new autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc. The immune system just finds a different target.

            We need to rebalance the immune system to prevent this. Sometimes the autoimmunity can be reversed as well! The gut determines your immune system. With the exception of discussing proper thyroid medication dosing, the majority of my website and my book focuses on balancing the immune system. The info I present is based on my own research 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

      • Can I substitute almond milk in place of coconut milk in your Basic Smoothie Recipe?

        Also, a lot of recipes call for coconut flour or coconut milk. What do you suggest for substitutes for those. I did the Alletess test and I am unable to have coconut.

        Thank you.

        Reply

        • Dale – thank you for reaching out. You can use another nut milk of choice (such as almond milk) or filtered water. The fat content will be significantly lower if you are not using canned coconut milk, so potentially adding another fat, such as avocado oil or olive oil may be beneficial. You would want to add 1-2 tablespoons of the added oil.

          Reply

          • I really love this smoothie!
            just wanted to know how often I should have it, Is it ok to have everyday or should I have it a few times or week? Also is it better to use can coconut milk or the container?
            Since drinking this smoothie my skin, hair, and over health has improved 100%!
            thank you so much

          • Lakisha – thank you so much for sharing! I am so happy you are enjoying the smoothie and seeing such wonderful benefits. <3 Yes you can have one every morning! I recommend coconut milk that is free from additives, gums and sugar; and is organic if possible. Some great brands that you could look for are Native Forest & Trader Joe’s (always check the ingredients as the ingredients used could change).

    • Is this recipe just one serving or do you save the rest for later in the day? I’m just getting ready to begin the liver detox and want to make sure I’m doing it correctly.

      Reply

  2. My TSH, T3 and T4 have come back elevated and I can’t get in to the endo til January! I can’t seem to find any info on what would cause all 3 to be high. I have to say, this has me concerned. Any ideas?
    Reply

    • Marna- Did you know that reactive foods trigger an inflammatory response in the GI tract, leading to malabsorption of nutrients (gluten sensitivity in particular has been implicated in causing a Selenium deficiency, a well known risk factor for Hashimoto’s), and can also produce intestinal permeability whenever they are eaten?

      Most people will see a dramatic reduction in gut symptoms, brain symptoms, skin breakouts and pain by eliminating the foods they are sensitive to. Some will also see a significant reduction in thyroid antibodies! An additional subset of people, will actually be able to get their Hashimoto’s into complete remission just by getting off the foods they react to, normalizing their thyroid antibodies, and some even normalizing their thyroid function! Here are a couple of articles you may find helpful.

      FOOD SENSITIVITIES AND HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/food-sensitivities-and-hashimotos

      AUTOIMMUNE PALEO DIET
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-paleo-diet

      Reply

  3. I wish I could eat pea protein but I am allergic to peas too!! I’m also allergic to brown rice too. Not sure about hemp protein powder as the allergy test didn’t test for it.
    Reply

  4. What kind of baby greens do you use that are thyroid friendly? I have sued some parsley from my garden, cucumbers or avocado. I steered away from kale, spinach and the Swiss chard I used to use due to what I read about their negative effect on the thyroid. I make a smoothie each morning using kefir I made from my home made coconut milk. I add some blueberries, mango, cranberries, carrots, sweet potatoes or pineapple in various combos along with some coconut oil/cream, a scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides, cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. Because we have an RO filter I also add some liquid mineral supplement. What do you think about the effects of the “anti-thyroid” greens? Can you suggest other greens that would be more thyroid friendly?
    Reply

  7. I am heading out to buy a nutribullet to incorporate these shakes into my diet. I have hashimotos, although my TSH is within normal range, my tpo antibodies are 93. some IBS conditions, looking forward to trying your recipes!
    Reply

  8. Another hurdle, I have Hashimoto’s and recently had allergy testing done and found out that I am allergic to peas and squash. Any ideas on what I could replace the pea powder with for this green smoothie? Thanks!
    Reply

  9. Coconut water, spinach, kale or dandelion, ginger, parsley, cucumber, frozen pine apple and pumpkin seed powder (sproutliving.com)
    Reply

  13. This sounds delicious, and the fact that it’s good for your thyroid just sweetens the deal! Thanks for sharing this recipe!
    Reply

  15. Can anyone suggest a protein powder to go in smoothies thats not soy dairy grain legume based…thanks..also ive been using raw spinach in mine…will this cause problems ..im hypothyroidism. Thanks
    Reply

  16. I have been having this type of breakfast for a few years. Also been using pea protein, but even if not allergic to it, it is a good idea to rotate it with another type of protein or two, to avoid becoming sensitised to it. My other protein types are hemp and one derived from sunflower seeds (great for a cacao-based smoothie). I no longer use kale (or spinach -> oxalic acid) in my smoothie raw to reduce any possible goitrogenic or anti-nutritional effect (some people steam them first). My smoothie however includes organic Romaine lettuce as well as organic carrot, half an organic apple and organic celery, rosehips powder plus whatever herbs (and berries) I have available. To finish, I add adaptogen herbs and a green powder (mix of spirulina, chlorella and similar). For fat: avocado or coconut or soaked nuts (almonds etc) or seeds (flaxseed, chia, pumpkin seeds). This keeps me going for hours.
    Reply

  17. I am under the impression that spinach and kale as well as chia seeds are not recommended with someone with Hashimotos. Can you give me some information on this.

    Reply

  19. People with leaky gut can become allergic to anything. I have been allergic to both coconut and avocado. I think right now I’m not and hopefully my gut is finally healing though I am still allergic to many things. Not much is really hypoallergenic. Maybe rice. I alternate between rice and pea protein these days.

    Reply

  20. Hello Isabella, Thanks for all the information. I am currently taking Nature-throid for hypothyroidism. A recently allergy test shows that I have a mild allergy to pork. Could this be reason of my hives and rashes also?

    Reply

  21. I can’t use the proteins you recommend. I will try the recipe with organic pumpkin seed powder. Omega Nutrition makes an excellent protein powder, etc.

    Reply

    • Heidi – thank you for following this page. I regret that I do not have the time to evaluate every supplement on the market. As a pharmacist, I can tell you that many supplements are ineffective, and some are even downright unsafe. The truth is that most supplement companies do not undergo the same scrutiny and testing that pharmaceutical products do. This is because many of the tests required of pharmaceutical companies are voluntary for supplement companies and most companies do not take the extra steps to test their products to ensure safety and purity.

      Rootcology’s mission is to provide safe and effective supplement solutions for people struggling with autoimmune thyroid conditions. Rootcology supplements are composed of high-quality pesticide-free ingredients, do not contain soy protein, dairy, or gluten ingredients, and undergo third-party testing to ensure that the ingredients on the label match the ingredients inside each bottle. Here is a link to the site. https://www.rootcology.com/collections/supplements I hope you check it out!

      Reply

  22. I’m vegetarian.I live in India..
    I have hypothyroidism. Which legumes are recommended ,which are soy based?

    Reply

  24. I find that freezing as many ingredients as I can for my smoothie eliminates the need for ice. Plus, if you happen to find a good deal on fresh fruit, you can buy a lot and cut it, freeze it, and make ready made smoothie packs. Another add in that I put in mine, is two to three brazil nuts. I find that my serum levels are better when I eat brazil nuts vs supplementation. Plus there isn’t that awful smell associated with taking selenium supplements. 🙂

    Reply

    • Erica – thank you for following this page and for sharing what has worked for you! The selenium content of Brazil nuts is determined on the soil where the nuts are grown and can vary 10 fold depending on the origin of the nuts. Brazil nuts can have between 50-500 mcg of selenium per ounce of nuts, so unless a lab has analyzed the micronutrients, you really don’t know if you are getting enough or too much selenium. Additionally, many people with Hashimoto’s may have multiple protein sensitivities and may be sensitive to Brazil nut. Here is an article you might find interesting.

      TOP 7 HASHIMOTO’S FOOD MYTHS
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-7-hashimotos-food-myths

      Reply

  25. Dr Wentz!
    This was DELICIOUS! I have issues with histamine so I used 1/2 an avocado, 1/2 C coconut milk and 1/2 C water. I did not have the pea protein and left that out for the first attempt. I have Green Smoothie Girl’s plant based protein that came with my membership to her detox that I haven’t tried. It contains pea, quinoa and inulin. Perhaps I’ll use that next time. What is the purpose of the protein source? I am concerned about overdoing histamine and that can be quite challenging in the paleo world 😉 (Thank you for the referral to the GSG detox. It was a great experience and I have been doing a green smoothie every day that is a ton of greens and contains some banana, berries and mango.) I had not tried a smoothie recipe without fruit and including so many different veggies and was hesitant to do so. I am so glad I tried this one first! I truly can’t believe how delicious the combination of vegetables was. I didn’t miss the fruit at all! Thank you for the wonderful work you are doing!!! XO…

    Reply

    • Staci – thank you so much for our support and for sharing! Optimizing your health starts with food. Figuring out which foods nourish you, and which ones cause you harm is the single most important thing you can learn in your health journey. I’ve built a database of 300+ paleo and autoimmune paleo Root Cause Approved recipes. The software allows you to customize your weekly menu and grocery store list by aisle. I hope you check it out: http://rootcauserecipes.com/

      Reply

  26. I purchased your book and have been following you to put the pieces together that will work for me. I have adrenal issues (waiting 2 months for an appt with endo) and would like to try your Root Cause smoothie. The issue I have is that green leafy vegetables make me very sick…. as if I have a serious stomach flu. Is there a substitute I could use until the adrenal issue is addressed? The greens are also a problem for me following your diet.

    Reply

    • Barbara – thank you so much for your support! Feel free to play around with the recipe and see what works best for you. While the carrots and coconut are usually naturally sweet enough, if you are coming off the Standard American Diet, you may want to add a boost of fruit, like a ¼ cup of berries or ½ green apple as your taste buds transition to appreciating the natural sweetness in coconuts and carrots. You may also be interested in checking out the Root Cause Recipe Portal. It is full of autoimmune paleo and paleo recipes. You’re able to organize weekly shopping lists, meal planning, etc. Hope you check it out: http://rootcauserecipes.com/

      Reply

  28. Hey Izabella!
    I’ve been trying this smoothie for a week, and I DO feel leaner
    but is it okay to eat an avocado every single day? Or this is just a three day option?

    Thank you!!
    Greetings.

    Reply

  29. Hi Dr. Wentz,

    Is there a specific brand of coconut milk you recommend? I noticed that the refrigerated ones have a good amount of added ingredients but I am also concerned about the linings used in canned coconut milk.

    Thank you!

    Reply

    • Marina – thank you for following this page. I’ve found the Trader Joe’s brand to be great (when it’s in stock). I also really like the Aroy-D brand, which you can get on Amazon. Look for one that is free of additives and carrageenan.

      I hope that helps!

      Reply

      • I was going to mention the coconut milk, but you beat me to it. You might want to note that in the top recipe section. ALL of the ‘boxed’ or carton milks are full of strange chemicals, and only some of the canned milks are free of artificial additives. Just because it’s sold in a ‘health food store’ doesn’t mean that it’s actually healthy. Read the labels, folks.

        I’m laughing because your green smoothie recipe is virtually identical to mine, but I add about 1/4 to 1 tsp each of turmeric, Chinese ginger, fresh garlic, star anise (just a pinch) and ground cardamom, as well as sea salt and fresh ground black pepper. The spices are both for flavor and for the anti-inflammatory properties, and I mix them up and add others depending on my mood that day. I’d been an organic vegetarian for a couple of decades before changing to the AIP in June, so I have a *bit* of experience with green smoothies. 😉 Some will recognize that spice blend as a variant of a masala mix for chai. Now that I’m a ‘reformed vegetarian’ I also add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of organic bone broth to the smoothie mix.

        Reply

  30. Hi Isabella,
    I have lyme disease so am minimising as much sugar content as possible. What substitutes would you suggest for the carrot and coconut oil?
    Also I have experienced unusual bloating following having the 1.3 litres a day of the following smoothie:
    avocado, kale, celery, spinach, lemon, marine collagen peptides, ginger, parsley or coriander, water
    If you have any thoughts on cause of bloating please let me know!
    Thank you : )

    Reply

  31. This recipe calls for one whole avocado. I know that they are a healthy monounsaturated fat. Having said that, will eating one whole avocado lower your LDL and raise your HDL? Also, a whole avocado is very high in calories. Will eating this shake daily help with weight loss?
    I have been adding a beet to mine along with other veggies like, Cauliflower, beet greens and asparagus. It takes me a little over an hour to eat this shake! I feel so good after that eating it. Thank you for sharing the recipe!! I have shared it with many people. I believe this shake can benefit all people, not just those who have Hashimoto’s.

    Reply

  32. I just purchase your book and have been reading some of your emails. I have been told just recently that I have Hashimoto. But my husband has a fatty liver and he gets sharp pains from it, but the doctor say he need to diet or have a surgery to cut half the stomach. No way baby he says LOL. Anyway do you think that the thyroid diet will help and benefit him.

    Reply

    • Milagros – thank you for following this page. He likely would benefit from the AIP diet as well as support you at the same time! <3 Did you know that reactive foods trigger an inflammatory response in the GI tract, leading to malabsorption of nutrients (gluten sensitivity, in particular, has been implicated in causing a Selenium deficiency, a well-known risk factor for Hashimoto's), and can also produce intestinal permeability whenever they are eaten?

      Most people will see a dramatic reduction in gut symptoms, brain symptoms, skin breakouts, and pain by eliminating the foods they are sensitive to. Some will also see a significant reduction in thyroid antibodies! An additional subset of people will actually be able to get their Hashimoto's into complete remission just by getting off the foods they react to, normalizing their thyroid antibodies, and some even normalizing their thyroid function! Here are a couple of articles you may find helpful.

      FOOD SENSITIVITIES AND HASHIMOTO'S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/food-sensitivities-and-hashimotos

      AUTOIMMUNE PALEO DIET
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-paleo-diet

      Reply

  33. Hi, Izabella!
    Thank you so much for all you are doing to support those of us with Hashi’s in regaining our health. I am so grateful to have found you, and I have just read up through the Liver Protocol portion of your book. I have a couple of questions:
    1) Why did you choose each ingredient you did for your Green Smoothie recipe–what does each ingredient bring to the whole? As a localvore, gardener, and person very comfortable in the kitchen and on a very limited income, I would like to be able to make substitutions to the smoothie recipe that will not significantly reduce the benefit it can bring to my body.
    2) Giving up gluten as my naturopath recommended has been a blessing in terms of getting rid of the migraines I’ve had since childhood and the wicked acid reflux I had begun to experience. However, it’s only been in the last few months that I’ve realized that my lack of ability to accomplish what I once did–including around earning a living–along with the fatigue and brain fog, are also a result of autoimmune disease, and I clearly I must do more. I am prepared to go with the AIP diet, but I am curious about coconut–how does it fit in, since it is a nut?

    Reply

  34. Hi Dr. Wentz. Quick question, I’m wondering why sea salt for this recipe? I thought hypo patients were supposed to avoid sea salt since there body needs iodine as is found in iodized salt. Thoughts?

    Reply

  35. I haven’t gotten the pea protein yet, so I am supplementing my smoothies with other protein in the morning (an egg, nut butter, meat), but I am finding that one batch lasts me for hours because it feels so filling! Not even hungry again in a reasonable time for lunch! Your recipes include other types of breakfasts, and I am wondering if you have the smoothie every morning or if you mix it up with other things from day to day.

    Reply

  36. Hello! I am vegan and use Vega pea-based protein powder. This is not a thyroid triggering source of protein, correct? I am very pleased to have found your website and FB page. Follow-up question: Is it absolutely necessary to use animal products to be healthy? I am unable to follow a Paleo diet for ethical reasons. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Heidi – thank you for following this page. Recovering from adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism when following a vegetarian diet is very challenging, as vegetarian diets are often carbohydrate heavy. Vegetarian sources of protein such as legumes (beans), dairy, grains, soy and some seeds may be incompatible with trying to heal a leaky gut, which is almost always present with Hashimoto’s. Pea protein is an alternative that may be easier to digest and is less likely to cause food sensitivities.

      I have created my own line of supplements, which also includes an Organic Pea Protein. Here’s the link: https://rootcology.com/collections/supplements/products/copy-of-purepaleo-protein-vanilla

      Eggs, some seeds, and nuts would be the preferred sources of protein for vegetarians. However, some people with Hashimoto’s may be intolerant to those as well, especially in the early stages of starting a healing diet. Being a vegan is even more challenging, and nuts and seeds would be the go-to source of protein, which are usually too difficult to digest for many in the beginning of their thyroid healing journeys.

      While vegan and vegetarian diets have been reported to be extremely helpful with autoimmune and chronic conditions, I have not been able to find reports of people recovering from Hashimoto’s by following a vegan diet. Even devout vegans who are nutritionally conscious still struggle with low body temperatures, hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s.

      Additionally, many former vegans have reported improved symptoms of Hashimoto’s following transitioning to a Paleo diet. Based on this, I believe that animal proteins must play an important role in building back the health of people with Hashimoto’s. That said, while meats and fats are important for healing, eating them exclusively will produce an acidic environment in the body, hindering healing, and thus the diet should be balanced with plenty of nutrient rich vegetables (suggested ratio may be 20% meat/80% veggie).

      Additionally, vegan and raw vegan diets can be extremely helpful for cleansing and detoxifying, especially for those with persistent protein digestion issues. A vegan diet can be followed for a few days to a few weeks and may help the body detoxify. B12 and iron or ferritin supplements should be utilized at this time to prevent deficiency. Please know that I’m a big proponent of bio-individuality which honors the distinct nutritional needs of every human being. I’m not saying everybody needs to eat meat, but I am saying to listen to your body if it needs meat. Here are a few articles which might help:

      AUTOIMMUNE PALEO DIET
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-paleo-diet

      ELIMINATION DIET FOR HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/elimination-diet-for-hashimotos

      Reply

  37. I have started drinking this smoothie. It tasted amazing and keeps me full for hours. I am adding in a scoop of collagen peptides and a spoonful of flavored fish oil. Is it ok to do this as long as I wait an hour after taking synthroid or do I need to wait longer to avoid interfering with absorption?

    Reply

    • Michelle – thank you for reaching out! I am happy to hear you are enjoying the smoothie recipe! <3 I recommend taking thyroid medication 1 hour before food to ensure good absorption. It should be taken 4 hours apart from iron, magnesium and calcium. <3

      Reply

  38. Thank you for this info. I love starting my day with a green smoothie and when I travel and I am unable to make a daily green smoothie I feel super sick. Do you have any green drink products that you recommend? I would love to have something that I can take with me when I am away from home.
    Thank you.
    Ashley

    Reply

  39. I’m on the AIP Diet & just bought a jar of Organic Beef Bone Broth from Natural Force. Can I use it in this recipe until I can buy the AI Paleo Protein?

    Reply

    • Jann – thank you for reaching out! Unfortunately, I am not able to evaluate every supplement on the market. As a pharmacist, I can tell you that many supplements are ineffective, and some are even downright unsafe. The truth is that most supplement companies do not undergo the same scrutiny and testing that pharmaceutical products do. This is because many of the tests required of pharmaceutical companies are voluntary for supplement companies and most companies do not take the extra steps to test their products to ensure safety and purity.

      I have created my own supplements brand, Rootcology, to provide safe and effective supplement solutions for people struggling with autoimmune thyroid conditions. Rootcology supplements are composed of high-quality pesticide-free ingredients, do not contain soy protein, dairy, or gluten ingredients, and undergo third-party testing to ensure that the ingredients on the label match the ingredients inside each bottle. Here is a link to the website: https://www.rootcology.com/collections/supplements. I hope this helps!

      Reply

    • Diane – thank you for reaching out. Maca is an adaptogen and can help to stabilize the adrenals. However, it may have different effects on different people. Start with 1 teaspoon to determine how you tolerate it, and work your way up to the recommended 1 tablespoon in the Maca latte recipe. I hope that’s helpful.

      Reply

  42. This smoothie is too much for me. I can’t drink a quarter of it. It’s simply too fatty with the coconut milk and avocado. Most days I have an avocado and some greens for my breakfast. Also the celery taste is sometimes too much for me. Any modifications I can do?

    P.S: I have Hashimoto’s and your book has given me hope! Great big hug and many thanks!

    Reply

    • Alexandra – thank you so much for your support and hug! <3 While most people who have tried the green smoothie love it, there are some people (like my husband) who may not like the pudding-like texture/consistency and the warmth of the smoothie. In his case, he prefers the smoothie to have a thinner, milk-like consistency, and he also prefers it to be “cold and tropical tasting” (his words :-)). For Michael’s green smoothie, I make the following taste/texture modifications… Add the juice of one lemon or lime (to make it more tropical and support digestive juices), Blend the contents with 1 cup of ice cubes to make the smoothie cold and give it a more “milky” consistency.
      While the carrots and coconut are usually naturally sweet enough, if you are coming off the Standard American Diet, you may want to add a boost of fruit, like a ¼ cup of berries or ½ green apple as your taste buds transition to appreciating the natural sweetness in coconuts and carrots. My new book Hashimoto's Food Pharmacology also includes this recipe as well as others you might like. I hope you check it out. <3

      Hashimoto's Food Pharmacology
      https://www.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Food-Pharmacology-Nutrition-Protocols/dp/0062571591?tag=thyroipharma-20

      Reply

  43. I was always told I couldn’t eat root veggies or any type of cabbages… Is this true? I see you talk about carrot’s and brussel sprouts throughout your website..
    Why do articles say we can’t have these types of veggies if it’s untrue..even if to a degree?

    Reply

    • Lisa – thank you for reaching out. I understand it can be frustrating. <3 There is a myth that foods known as goitrogens, such as cruciferous vegetables, are not good for those with Hashimoto's. Iodine deficiency is not widespread in people with Hashimoto’s, and so eating cruciferous vegetables (unless you are sensitive to them) is perfectly healthy for people with Hashimoto’s and should not impact thyroid function. In the case that a person does have hypothyroidism due to iodine deficiency, he/she can still enjoy crucifers as long as they are cooked or fermented. Cooking/fermenting will break down the iodine blocking content. You can read more about the breakdown of the science behind the thyroid and goitrogens here: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/what-are-goitrogens-and-do-they-matter-with-hashimotos/

      Reply

  44. The pea protein has a warning issued “This product is subject to the following warning: Reproductive Harm – http://www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/food.” This sounds concerning. Is there another protein that should be considered, or is this warning overly conservative? I have low stomach acid so I did not know if the hydrolized beef protein would be undesirable. Thank you for your thorough, informative articles! Sharing your research and knowledge is so enlightening and helpful for me! Thank you!

    Reply

  45. Hi, I’m wondering if there is any good substitute for coconut milk? I’m now sensitive to it as well as almond milk:/

    Reply

  46. Dear Doctor,
    isn’t Sea Salt=Iodine bad for Hashimoto patients? ;(
    Also Cold Liver?

    Looking forward to yout answer.
    Have a nice day

    Reply

  47. I have an immersion blender that I pack with me when I travel, so that I can make my green smoothies even when I am not at home.

    Reply

  48. Although I have no digestive issues that I’m aware of, I really enjoyed seeing these smoothie ideas, with all the variations. I was inspired to write up a little template with all my possible ingredients (arranged by colour) as a jog for early morning inspiration: Pick a colour (green, orange/yellow or red/blue); pick a protein (or 2); pick a veggie (or 2); pick a fruit (or 2); pick an “additive”(or 2, all natural of course). Give it a blitz. Now I may be easily amused, but this is the most fun I’ve had making a summer breakfast in a long time!

    Reply

  49. Hi Izabella!

    Wow I did not think this would be sweet enough, but it’s delicious!

    I am so grateful for your site and all of the content you share. I struggle with hashimoto’s and PCOS. My naturopath (who has honestly helped me so much more than my endocrinologist) encouraged me to check your site.

    I’m currently working through your documentary series and there is so much helpful information. I was already off of gluten and dairy but I had been noticing some issues so I’m back to an elimination diet. I feel so much better cutting out grains, soy, corn, and eggs. I’m considering sticking with a paleo diet longer term.

    I still struggle with certain issues such as hormonal hair growth and difficulty to lose weight. Though the elimination diet has slowly been helping with the weight loss.

    Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

    Best wishes,
    Silka

    Reply

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