“Bad digestion is at the root of all evil,” said Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician who is considered to be the father of modern medicine. Although he was born in 460 BC, I think he was onto something!
In the world of functional medicine, we often refer to this concept that all disease (and thereby all healing) begins in the gut. The gut performs the all-important role of digesting and absorbing the nutrients we take in. I like to say, “You are what you absorb.”
In a well-functioning gut, the body produces the appropriate enzymes to break down the food that is ingested. However, compromised intestinal function is almost always a factor in people with Hashimoto’s — and oftentimes, the root cause of their thyroid condition.
An enzyme deficiency can, directly and indirectly, contribute to thyroid symptoms and autoimmunity. Supplementing with specific enzymes can help with overcoming symptoms of Hashimoto’s (including fatigue, hair loss, nutrient deficiencies, infections, and food sensitivities), as well as reducing thyroid antibodies.
In my survey of over 2000 individuals with Hashimoto’s, about 73 percent of those who tried digestive enzymes reported that the enzymes made them feel better. Some of the main improvements include increased energy, better mood, and clearer skin.
Read on to learn more about:
- The role of enzymes
- How enzymes deficiency affects Hashimoto’s
- The seven types of enzymes that might be beneficial
The Role of Enzymes
Enzymes are a form of protein present throughout the body. They manage cell metabolism by making the chemical reactions that keep us alive, happen more efficiently.
Because of enzymes, cells can manage millions of chemical reactions per second, making our bodies efficient at creating energy from the raw materials we provide.
Some of the key roles that enzymes play include:
- Digestion – Digestive enzymes help the body break down larger complex molecules into smaller molecules to be used as fuel. In doing so, they can help the digestive system better absorb and utilize nutrients, making them helpful for nutrient deficiencies (commonly observed in those with Hashimoto’s).
- DNA replication – Each time a cell divides, that DNA needs to be copied. Enzymes help in this process by unwinding the DNA coils and copying the information, aiding in healthy cell growth and renewal.
- Detoxification – Liver enzymes help the liver break down toxins in the body for elimination. Providing support to these enzymes can help the liver function more optimally. This can be especially useful in helping an overburdened liver (commonly observed in those with Hashimoto’s) clear out elevated levels of toxins.
There are many things that can change the way that enzymes function in our body and throw enzyme production out of balance, including aging (as we age, we produce less digestive enzymes), and conditions like Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism.
There’s an intimate connection between thyroid function and the body’s ability to digest our foods. Let’s explore the thyroid and digestive enzyme connection.
Enzymes and Hashimoto’s
As mentioned earlier, poor gut health is linked to altered enzyme production. We know that everyone with Hashimoto’s has some degree of intestinal permeability, or leaky gut, which occurs when poorly digested molecules of food or other toxins permeate the intestinal lining and become absorbed into the bloodstream. When this occurs, the body may recognize them as foreign invaders. This causes inflammation in the body as it begins to attack the intruders, and eventually leads to autoimmunity.
Intestinal permeability can be a result of poor digestion caused by a reduction in enzymes that help break down food. Many people with Hashimoto’s experience acid reflux, bloating, and constipation, along with fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and many other symptoms that may be caused by poor digestive function.
One of the key “aha” moments on my road to recovery from Hashimoto’s, came when I decided to try a betaine with pepsin supplement to support protein digestion. I woke up the next morning with more energy than I had felt in a decade! I was finally able to digest my food properly.
As I’ve delved more into the world of food pharmacology (food as medicine), I’ve come to realize how important proper digestion is to health, particularly for those of us managing thyroid conditions. People with Hashimoto’s usually experience some level of nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, digestive issues, and infections. These symptoms are often caused by a diminished ability to absorb proper nutrients from the food we eat.
This is where adding digestive enzymes that help the body break down food, can be a critical tool for improving digestive health, boosting nutrient uptake, and reducing the symptoms of Hashimoto’s.
7 Types of Enzymes that May Benefit Hashimoto’s
I love hearing from readers who have been taking charge of their own health after being inspired by my personal healing journey. Shelly was just one reader who reached out with a success story. She was really frustrated because she kept becoming more and more reactive to certain foods, and didn’t know why. After reading my articles on the supplements betaine with pepsin and systemic enzymes, she realized that she wasn’t digesting her proteins properly. Her body was making numerous inflammatory immune complexes to EVERY protein she was eating! Those same proteins cross-reacted with her thyroid gland, causing more damage and inflammation.
Within a few days of supplementing with betaine with pepsin (to break down the proteins she was ingesting), she began to feel substantially better. She experienced less joint pain, less brain fog, less bloating, more energy, and better digestion. Within a week, some weight came off — even though she wasn’t dieting or exercising more than usual.
She also began using systemic enzymes (enzymes that are taken away from food and break down inflammatory immune complexes), and started noticing that her eyes and face were less swollen — within a few weeks.
After three months, she repeated her food sensitivity and thyroid antibody tests. The number of thyroid antibodies and food sensitivities had been reduced by HALF!
These results are quite typical. In fact, many people have completely eliminated thyroid antibodies (not to mention symptoms) through nutrition and enzyme supplements.
But just as everyone’s root causes are unique, there are different enzymes that you too can benefit from. Enzymes are so important that I decided to write this new article on how to properly use enzymes.
There are seven different types of enzymes that are particularly helpful for people with Hashimoto’s. They have been shown to improve digestion, relieve many symptoms commonly associated with the condition, and even improve thyroid labs.
These seven enzymes are:
- Broad spectrum digestive support enzymes
- Protein digestive enzymes
- Liver and gallbladder support
- Pancreatic enzymes
- Veggie enzymes
- Gluten/dairy digestive enzymes
- Systemic enzymes
1. Broad Spectrum Digestive Enzymes
Researchers have reported that people with Hashimoto’s may have a deficiency in a variety of digestive enzymes. The first sign of enzyme deficiency that I had discovered in my own body was poor protein digestion, but over the years, I have learned that many people with Hashimoto’s may also have an impaired ability to digest fiber, starch, and fat.
In the case of poor fiber absorption, many fibers of undigested vegetables may be found in one’s stools, and a person may feel very bloated after a high-fiber meal. When someone is not properly digesting fats, they will often present with diarrhea, steatorrhea (fat in stools), cramping, bloating, and muscle cramps.
Symptoms like bloating, gas, pain after eating, constipation, nauseous, undigested food in the stool, food sensitivities and fatigue, are all red flag symptoms of poor digestion.
I’ve found that some individuals may need to take a broad spectrum enzyme (sometimes by itself, sometimes in combination with other specific enzymes), in order to help assist the digestion of food. Broad spectrum enzymes can be helpful for those who find they have a variety of digestive symptoms that can be attributed to various types of food reactions, or have a hard time with determining which types of foods actually lead to digestive distress (see assessments below).
Some digestive enzyme supplement formulations provide us with replacement enzymes to do the digestive work on our behalf, while other enzyme formulations support the body’s own digestive pathways.
Rootcology Herbal Bitters is a new broad spectrum digestive enzyme that helps us boost our own endogenous enzymes, helping us restore our enzyme levels over time.
Herbal Bitters includes:
- Ginger: The spicy warmth of ginger comes from gingerol and shogaol, compounds called gingeroids. These compounds are responsible for most of ginger’s beneficial effects on digestion, such as ameliorating occasional indigestion, bloating, belching, and discomfort after meals. Ginger has also been shown to support a healthy response to foods, minimizing food reactions.
- Fennel: Fennel enhances the activity of the natural digestive enzymes in the small intestine. This may help reduce occasional stomach discomfort and bloating, as well as support bowel regularity.
- Dandelion: Dandelion tea has long been employed for occasional upset stomach and indigestion. Dandelion root supports the proper timing of the digestive process so that food does not pass too quickly or too slowly through the GI tract, which may result in occasional constipation or diarrhea. Dandelion also stimulates the healthy flow of bile for the digestion of dietary fats.
- Gentian: Gelatin supports healthy bile flow and may help relieve occasional upset stomach or heartburn after eating, flatulence, and feeling full after eating a small amount of food.
- Lemon balm: Lemon balm helps calm occasional discomfort associated with indigestion, gas, and bloating. Lemon balm is also widely recognized for promoting calm throughout the body, by supporting the parasympathetic nervous system — the “rest and digest” part of the mind-body connection responsible for healthy digestion.
Herbal Bitters from Rootcology can help with energy levels, as well as give a boost to other enzymes, as they stimulate production of other enzymes within the body. The end goal is not to replace our enzymes, but instead boost our own so that they can do as they need organically. We can then incorporate other enzymes, as listed below, to compliment the ones that we may be deficient in.
I recommend that Herbal Bitters be taken at a dose of one or two capsules, depending on tolerance, with each main meal.
You can also take other broad spectrum digestive enzymes, such as Digestive Enzymes Ultra from Pure Encapsulations, as an alternative to the Herbal Bitters. This is a broad spectrum digestive enzyme replacement.
Who is most likely to benefit from broad spectrum digestive enzymes?
If you notice bloating or gas after eating, can’t seem to pinpoint your reaction to foods, and tend to have a dry mouth (or a history of cavities and dental plaque – signs of inadequate saliva), you may benefit from broad spectrum enzymes that support your body’s own production of a variety of enzymes. Here is an assessment that will help you determine if you could benefit from broad spectrum digestive enzymes.
For each symptom, give yourself one point.
- Bloating
- Gas
- Pain
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Undigested food/fibers in stool
- Food sensitivities
- Fatigue
If your score was higher than one on this assessment, you will likely benefit from a broad spectrum enzyme supplement. This will give you overall digestive support, but you may need additional supplemental enzymes as well. Be sure to complete the other assessments included in this article.
Who should avoid broad spectrum digestive enzymes?
At this time, there are no major drug interactions or precautions of note, but please check the ingredients list to ensure that you are not sensitive or allergic to any ingredients listed. Consult with your healthcare physician prior to consuming these types of enzymes if you are pregnant or lactating, or if you are taking blood thinners.
2. Betaine with Pepsin (Protein Digestive Enzymes)
Most people with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism have low stomach acid.
Low stomach acid makes it more difficult to digest proteins, making us more tired, as digestion is one of the biggest energy-requiring processes of our bodies. Additionally, when proteins are poorly digested, we are more likely to become sensitive to them. Thus, many people with Hashimoto’s will be sensitive to gluten, dairy, and soy (as well as possibly other foods). This is because these proteins are amongst the most difficult to digest and are also the most commonly eaten proteins in the standard western diet.
People will often develop IgG antibodies to the various proteins, which are also the same types of antibodies that target the thyroid gland in autoimmune disease. When someone continues to eat these proteins, the immune system attack becomes upregulated as the influx of poorly digested proteins triggers the immune system to make more of these types of antibodies. While simply eliminating the ingestion of such reactive proteins can help a person to feel much better and downregulate the autoimmune attack, continuing to have low stomach acid may contribute to developing new food sensitivities to proteins that are found in grains, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
These poorly digested proteins then become “food” for the opportunistic bacteria that live in our gut. The gut is a delicate environment of probiotic (beneficial) and opportunistic (potentially problematic if conditions are right for them to grow out of control) bacteria. An overgrowth of opportunistic bacteria has been linked to autoimmunity.
Additionally, having low stomach acid makes us more susceptible to acquiring gut infections like SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), H. pylori, Yersinia, and parasites, which can be potential root causes of autoimmunity.
Numerous parasites such as Giardia, E. histolytica, and Blastocystis hominis, among others, have been found to cause intestinal permeability.
Low stomach acid can result from a nutrient deficiency, such as thiamine or B12, and can contribute to low iron levels and anemia, as we need stomach acid to extract B12 and iron from our protein-containing foods. This leads to a vicious cycle that results in hair loss, fatigue, food sensitivities, etc. Many people have been able to improve their levels of ferritin and B12 through improving their stomach acid and vice versa.
While having hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s in itself can cause low stomach acid, as can aging and genetics, there are other root causes of low stomach acid that need to be considered.
Addressing these root causes should always be done in conjunction with betaine HCl and pepsin supplementation:
- H. pylori infections, which can trigger Hashimoto’s, ulcers, acid reflux, and low stomach acid, among other conditions.
- B12 deficiency, which may be associated with a vegan diet or with anti-parietal cell antibodies (proteins that are produced by our immune system and mistakenly target specific cells within the stomach lining).
- Adrenal dysfunction, which can deplete nutrients required for stomach acid production.
- The MTHFR mutation, which is associated with a buildup of homocysteine due to impaired methylation. There are two main pathways of breaking down homocysteine. One of them involves the use of trimethylglycine (betaine), and this gene mutation could theoretically make someone trimethylglycine deficient.
- Other nutrient deficiencies, especially thiamine.
Using a betaine hydrochloride with pepsin supplement (naturally occurring components of gastric juice that make nutrients and amino acids from our protein-containing foods more bioavailable, by breaking down protein bonds), such as Rootcology’s Betaine with Pepsin, can help with this.
Betaine, also known as trimethylglycine, is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that is isolated from beets, and the acidic HCl version of it promotes acidity in the gastric opening. Pepsin is a naturally occurring digestive enzyme that breaks apart proteins into smaller pieces so they can be properly absorbed by the small intestine.
For those with the MTHFR gene variation and low stomach acid, taking betaine with pepsin is a great way to get extra trimethylglycine, which helps metabolize homocysteine.
In my 2015 survey of 2232 people with Hashimoto’s, out of 627 people who took betaine and pepsin, 59 percent said that it made them feel better, 33 percent said that it made them feel worse, while seven percent saw no difference in symptoms.
Taking betaine with pepsin with protein-containing meals, can help with getting your energy back. After beginning to take betaine with pepsin with my protein-containing meals, my 10-year long debilitating fatigue was lifted practically overnight! I went from sleeping for 11-12 hours per night, to eight hours — just because I started digesting my foods better! Having enough energy gave me the confidence that I could overcome Hashimoto’s and my long list of health struggles.
For full details on how to use Rootcology’s Betaine with Pepsin, as well as alternative ways to increase your stomach acid if you don’t want to take a supplement, you can download my Low Stomach Acid Quick Start Guide:
Who is most likely to benefit from betaine with pepsin (protein digestive enzymes)?
Some of my clients who report feeling tired or with a heavy feeling after protein-containing meals, as well as those who have a history of SIBO, a known B12 or iron deficiency, the MTHFR gene variation, or a history of PPI use, have reported that betaine with pepsin was a big game changer for them. I often refer to it as my “aha” moment for changing the trajectory of my Hashimoto’s. I went from exhausted and brain fogged after endless hours of sleep, to waking up bright eyed and bushy tailed within just a few days of using it!
Here is a comprehensive assessment that can help you determine if betaine with pepsin is right for you:
Do you have risk factors for low stomach acid?
Please check “yes” for every factor that applies to you.
- History of hypothyroidism/Hashimoto’s
- History of taking acid suppressants and/or PPIs
- Over age 75
- Over age 80
- Over age 84
Do you have symptoms of low stomach acid?
For each symptom, give yourself one point.
- Burping, bloating, belching, or flatulence right after eating
- Feels like food sits in stomach; a sense of fullness after eating
- Pain
- Easily get food poisoning
- Indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation
- Low B12 levels
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Nausea after taking supplements
- Undigested food in stool
- Currently taking antacids or PPIs
- Feeling better after eating “vegetarian/vegan”
- Dairy sensitivity
- Multiple food sensitivities
- Pruritus ani (itchy anus)
- Feeling worse after eating steak (vs. ground beef)
- Low energy
- Brain fog
- Egg sensitivity
- Difficulty digesting animal protein
- Parasites, especially recurring parasites
- SIBO
- H. pylori
- Candida, and recurring Candida
- Weak, peeling, and cracked fingernails
- Dilated blood vessels in the cheeks and nose (in nonalcoholics)
If you have more than two risk factors, or identified more than three symptoms on this list, you may benefit from a trial of Rootcology Betaine with Pepsin.
Who should avoid Betaine with Pepsin?
Using this supplement in excess can lead to stomach irritation, which is why I always recommend a slow dose titration to determine your optimal dose. That said, some people should NOT take Betaine with Pepsin. This supplement should not be used by those with a history of peptic ulcers or gastritis, those with an active H. pylori infection, or those with an overproduction of acid. Discuss with your primary care practitioner before taking if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not take this supplement if taking blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids, or other medications that may increase one’s likelihood of developing an ulcer.
I also recommend avoiding this supplement if you are taking proton pump inhibitors or other acid-suppressing medications, as these will negate the effect of the supplement.
Enzymes for Fat Digestion
Fat malabsorption is easily overlooked by patients and practitioners alike. If you have issues with digesting fat — like up to 73 percent percent of people with Hashimoto’s do, based on my analysis of comprehensive gut tests — you may benefit from an enzyme that aids in fat digestion.
We know that whatever we eat eventually makes it down into the small intestine, but some people have trouble digesting the fats that we consume from the foods we eat.
Our liver produces a substance called bile. Bile from the liver is sent to the gallbladder via a passageway called the common bile duct, and then it is concentrated and stored there. When we eat a fatty meal, the concentrated bile is released from the gallbladder through the common bile duct, then heads to the initial part of the small intestine (called the duodenum). There, the bile begins to break down the fats into tiny globules.
At the same time, the neighboring pancreas organ releases its own pancreatic juices (containing digestive enzymes such as lipase and bicarbonate ions), mixing with the bile and tiny globules of fat. The pancreatic juices neutralize the digesting food (which is very acidic) and also help with protein and carbohydrate digestion.
Both bile and pancreatic secretions emulsify the fats (or lipids) so that they can be digested in the watery small intestine.
The lack of thyroxine associated with hypothyroidism can affect the sphincter of Oddi (layers of muscle that regulate the flow of bile into the small intestine/duodenum, which close between meals, preventing bile from continuing to flow into the small intestine when it isn’t needed). The sphincter may experience increased tension, which can prevent normal bile flow. This has been thought to contribute to the formation of common bile duct stones, as well as gallstones.
Thus, it’s not surprising that there is an increased prevalence of hypothyroidism found in patients with common bile duct stones. In fact, patients with common bile duct stones and gallstones have, respectively, seven-fold and three-fold increases in the frequency of hypothyroidism.
Experiments with hypothyroid rats have confirmed the thyroxine effect on bile composition, decreased bile flow, and relaxation of the sphincter of Oddi. Research in rats has shown that the administration of thyroid hormone improves bile flow, suggesting that there is a strong correlation between developing gallbladder issues and hypothyroidism.
There are various reasons why a person may have difficulty with fat malabsorption. Some of the common ones include bile deficiency, pancreatic enzymes deficiency, liver backlog, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
There are two recommended supplements that can help you with fat digestion — one targets the liver and gallbladder, and the other supports the pancreas.
Who is most likely to benefit from fat digestive enzymes?
If you experience gas and bloating after meals, frequent diarrhea, stomach pain, foul smelling and greasy stools, unexplained weight loss, or a low fecal elastase count on a gut screen (such as the GI-MAP test), you may have problems digesting fat and may benefit from a fat digestive enzyme.
If you’ve had fat malabsorption for some time, you may also find that you will start to develop symptoms of fatty acid deficiency, as well as potential vitamin A, D, E, and K deficiencies. Signs of fatty acid deficiency include dry hair, weight loss, eczema, depression, dry itchy/flaky skin or scalp, dandruff, oily scalp, and rashes.
Vitamin D deficiency can be identified on a lab test, and generally, if a person has been supplementing with vitamin D but is still showing a deficiency, I suspect fat malabsorption issues.
3. Liver & Gallbladder Support for Fat Digestion
I’ve found that many people with Hashimoto’s have gallbladder congestion or have had their gallbladder surgically removed. As a result, they find their ability to digest fats to be significantly impaired.
This may be due to the fact that thyroid hormone levels and dysbiosis can affect the production of antimicrobial primary bile as well as the synthesis of secondary bile acid. Low levels of thyroxine (free T4), seen in hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s, can decrease liver cholesterol metabolism. This causes the primary bile to thicken, slowing down its flow. Motility (the transit time of digested food traveling through the intestines) is also regulated by thyroid hormones, and it becomes slower. Too little bile, the loss of its protective microbial properties, along with slow motility, can result in SIBO and dysbiosis (both prevalent in those with Hashimoto’s).
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with fat malabsorption, due to your gallbladder not functioning optimally, or you have had your gallbladder removed, I recommend using a supplement that supports a healthy bile flow and fat digestion, like Liver & Gallbladder Support by Rootcology.
- Liver & Gallbladder Support promotes the elimination of fatty substances from the liver and the breakdown and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.* This supplement also contains some key ingredients that help with gallbladder health. Those ingredients are:
- Artichoke Extract – Artichoke extract has prokinetic benefits and can also support the body in clearing out an H. pylori infection.
- Taurine – This amino acid is a major constituent of bile. It protects the body from both toxicity and oxidative stress, and can naturally improve bile production. It has also been found to support thyroid function: research has shown taurine may help improve thyroid function in animals exposed to environmental toxins such as lead and insecticides.
- Milk Thistle – This plant contains silymarin, a compound that is considered to have hepatoprotective properties (which means it protects liver health – hepato is greek for liver), in particular relating to toxins. Silymarin is also considered to have antioxidant effects and potential anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, it has been shown to improve pancreatic function after exposure to toxic agents. As a bonus, it can be beneficial for those with high blood sugar levels, which is common in Hashimoto’s.
- Ox Bile – Bile salts from oxen have been shown to increase bile flow and support fat digestibility in animal studies. This aids in clearing our toxins and infections.
- L-Methionine – This amino acid helps detox heavy metals and prevents excess fat buildup in the liver. It also helps with breaking down histamines.
- Inositol – In rat studies, this sugar has been shown to improve bile acid secretion as well as reduce oxidative stress. By the way, one form of inositol, myo-inositol, is known to have additional benefits in lowering TSH, as well as addressing blood sugar imbalances, OCD, and anxiety, in people.
Rootcology Liver & Gallbladder Support helps fat digestion in three different ways: it supports the liver’s ability to process fat with ingredients such as milk thistle, gives us extra bile through ox bile, and supports our bile flow with ingredients such as dandelion, artichoke, and beet. This can be a life-changer if you have issues with fat malabsorption.
Who is most likely to benefit from Liver & Gallbladder Support?
Those that have had their gallbladders removed, as well as those who struggle with estrogen dominance, histamine symptoms, allergies and excess weight, report a lot of benefits from taking an ox bile-containing supplement such as Liver & Gallbladder Support. Here’s a comprehensive assessment to help you determine whether you would benefit from Liver & Gallbladder Support:
Do you have risk factors for gallbladder issues?
Please check “yes” for every factor that applies to you.
- I am a woman
- H. pylori infection
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Obesity
- Hypothyroidism
- Sluggish bile flow
- Low stomach acid
- Celiac disease
- Familial hypercholesterolemia
- High estrogen
- Fibrates
- Eating a low fat diet
- Eating a low fiber diet
- High alcohol intake
- Use of contraceptives
- Use of statins
- Use of ceftriaxone
Do you have symptoms of gallbladder dysfunction?
- Indigestion, especially after eating rich, fatty meals or dairy
- Abdominal bloating, or excessive fullness after meals
- Reflux, heartburn, GERD
- Diarrhea/loose, urgent stools after some foods
- Abdominal cramps or other pain after a meal
- Low tolerance to alcohol
- Moody, irritable disposition
- Excess sweating, sweaty feet
- Bad breath, coated tongue
- Fatigue after eating
- Gallbladder attack
- Intense pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen
- Nausea that may lead to vomiting
- Flatulence
- Belching, burping
- Allergies
- Pain between shoulder blades, or radiating to the right shoulder blade; discomfort behind the right shoulder blade, or top of the right shoulder
- Intense pain that requires being hunched over to walk
- Constant stomach pain, stomach pain that lasts between 1-4 hours
- Jaundice or yellow-colored whites of eyes
- Have had gallbladder removed or have gallstones
- Fatty liver
- Light or tan-colored, frothy stools that smell bad
- Low serum albumin levels
- Bleeding tendency (vitamin K deficiency)
- Less than one bowel movement daily
- Itchy skin
- Lack of appetite
- Food sensitivities
- Dark-colored urine
- Having a bitter taste or sour taste in your mouth after eating
- Water retention in legs and ankles
- Big toe painful
- Pain radiates along outside of leg
- Dry skin/hair
- High blood cholesterol and/or triglycerides
- Constipation
- Weight gain
- Rapid weight loss
- Fatigue
- Sciatica-like pain
- Ringing sound in ears
- Sleeplessness
- Headaches
If you have more than three risk factors, or identified more than three symptoms on this list, you may benefit from a trial of Liver & Gallbladder Support. Some individuals will benefit from long-term Liver & Gallbladder Support, and those who have had their gallbladder removed may require lifelong supplementation of an ox bile-containing supplement.
Who should avoid Liver & Gallbladder Support?
Do not take Liver & Gallbladder Support if you have Addison’s disease, a history of electrolyte imbalance, or are allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients. Consult with a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Please also review my article on gallbladder health for more information about potential drug interactions, and be sure to discuss any concerns about supplements with your practitioner as well.
4. Pancreatic Enzymes for Fat Digestion
In some cases, people with fat malabsorption may have issues with fat digestion due to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or a deficiency in pancreatic enzymes. Some potential reasons for pancreatic insufficiency include damaged microvilli, celiac disease, SIBO, toxicity, stress, and alcohol use.
In such cases, I’ve found pancreatic enzymes to be really helpful. Pancreatic Enzymes Plus from Rootcology contains pancreatic enzymes to support fat digestion, and the enzymes are taken with every fat-containing meal. In about 50 percent of cases, I’ve seen pancreatic insufficiency resolve simply by using pancreatic enzymes for a few weeks to a few months; in other cases, people may need to take the enzymes long-term and do more detective work to identify why they are deficient in pancreatic enzymes.
I have also used Pancreatic Enzyme Formula by Pure Encapsulations personally and with clients, with great results. I find this option especially helpful for advanced stages of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, where one may require high doses of the enzymes (and may need to take multiple pills with each meal and snack, based on his/her weight).
Who Is Likely to Benefit from Pancreatic Enzymes?
Many of my clients with brain fog, deficiencies in the fat-soluble vitamins, and those who don’t tolerate fatty foods, have found that pancreatic enzymes have given them a new lease on life! Here is an assessment to help you determine if pancreatic enzymes are right for you:
Do you have risk factors for pancreatic enzyme deficiency?
Please check “yes” for every factor that applies to you.
- Celiac disease
- Chronic stress
- Crohn’s disease
- Gallbladder removal
- History of alcoholism
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sjogren’s
- Hashimoto’s
- Other autoimmune conditions
- Mold exposure
Do you have symptoms of pancreatic enzyme deficiency?
For each symptom, give yourself one point.
- Unexplained weight loss, difficulty gaining weight
- Fatty stools (light colored, greasy, foul-smelling poop that floats)
- Abdominal discomfort/cramps
- Indigestion one to three hours after eating
- Fatigue after eating
- Lower bowel gas or belching
- Alternating constipation and diarrhea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation from roughage and fiber
- Mucus in stools
- Poorly formed stool
- Shiny stool
- Three or more large bowel movements daily
- Dry, flaky skin, and/or dry brittle hair
- Chronic stomach pain
- Adult acne
- Food sensitivities
- Gallbladder pain (right side, under ribs)
- Trouble tolerating fatty foods/keto diet; feel better on low fat diet
- Gallstones
- Undigested food in stool
- Nausea
- Acid reflux/heartburn
- Edema
- Bleeding tendency
- Decreased absorption of nutrients (especially B12)
- Poor night vision
- Low levels of vitamin D
- Distension or flatulence
- Hormonal imbalance
- Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, E, K or omega-3 fatty acids
- Glucose intolerance
- Transient low blood sugar
If you have more than two risk factors, or identified more than three symptoms on this list, you may benefit from a trial of pancreatic enzymes.
Who should avoid Pancreatic Enzymes Plus?
Do not take Rootcology Pancreatic Enzymes Plus if you are allergic to pork, pineapples, pancreatic enzymes, or ox bile, or take certain medications including blood thinners. Consult with a physician before use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Please check out my article on pancreatic enzymes to learn more about potential medication interactions with this kind of supplement.
5. Veggie Enzymes
We all know how important it is to eat our vegetables. In fact, many of my recommendations for healing the body through nutrient-dense whole foods, revolve around fueling the body with nourishing green vegetables. But for some people with Hashimoto’s, a damaged gut and a lack of digestive enzymes can make vegetables difficult to digest, as their high fiber and starch content may be difficult to break down, especially in their raw form.
In some cases of hypothyroidism, an indigestible ball of plant fiber material known as a phytobezoar, which is formed out of undigested vegetable fibers, has been found to cause bowel obstruction. These masses of undigested material commonly consist of vegetable fibers from pulpy fruits, orange pits, seeds, roots, and leaves, but can be formed from any indigestible food fibers. Fibrous foods that are often found in phytobezoars include celery, pumpkin, prunes, raisins, leeks, beets, persimmons, and sunflower-seed shells.
Interestingly, insoluble fibers, which are high in vegetables like leafy greens, corn, celery, and bell peppers, have been shown to mechanically trigger symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as they move through the digestive tract. However, certain fibers — particularly soluble fiber such as psyllium — may actually be a helpful treatment for IBS. So perhaps the inability to digest the insoluble fibers is due to an enzyme deficiency, further contributing to the autoimmune cascade and IBS symptoms.
Common symptoms of poor veggie digestion include bloating, gas, constipation, and stomach pain. Symptoms of nutrient depletions that may occur when the body is unable to break down and absorb the nutrients in fibrous vegetables, are much further reaching and may include fatigue, hair loss, muscle pain, and autoimmunity itself.
Deficiencies in antioxidants such as vitamin C (which is found in high amounts in cruciferous vegetables, bell peppers, and leafy greens), vitamin E, beta-carotene (a vitamin A precursor), and the minerals selenium and manganese, often result due to poor vegetable digestion.
Folate is another important nutrient that can become depleted when vegetables aren’t properly absorbed. Common sources of folate include broccoli, asparagus, avocado, spinach, and Brussels sprouts.
For those who have undigested vegetable fibers in their stool, taking an enzyme that helps to digest plant fibers may be helpful. I created Veggie Enzymes by Rootcology, which is a vegetarian-friendly digestive support formula. As a blend of amylase, protease, lactase, and other important enzymes, it aids in the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The cellulase breaks down plant cellulose, while the amylase breaks down starches to help the body digest starchy and fibrous foods like raw veggies and fruits.
Who is most likely to benefit from Veggie Enzymes?
People with irritable bowel syndrome, seemingly random food reactions, skin breakouts, and those who experience gas and bloating after meals, or notice undigested fibers in their stool, have reported a big resolution in symptoms with taking a veggie enzyme such as Rootcology Veggie Enzymes.
Use the assessment below to help you determine if veggie enzymes may be beneficial for you:
For each symptom, give yourself one point.
- Feeling better on a carnivore/Paleo-type diet (meat)
- Trouble digesting vegetables
- Vegetable fibers in stool
- Acne/skin breakouts
- Bloating
- Gas
- Constipation
- Pain in your upper abdomen (belly) that may spread to your back or get worse after eating
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Fast heartbeat
- Jaundice
- Greasy, foul smelling stool
- Trouble tolerating glucose
- Blood sugar swings
- Angiokeratoma – red, blue, purple, or black bumps form underneath your skin
- Pain or tingling
- Trouble sweating
- Heat intolerance
- Corneal deposits
- Tinnitus
- Hearing loss
- Fatigue
- Dyspnea
- Kidney disease
- I feel better grain free
- Hypoglycemia
- Vomiting
- I feel better eating cooked foods
If you marked more than three symptoms on this list, you may benefit from a trial of Veggie Enzymes.
Who should avoid Veggie Enzymes?
While there are no major drug interactions or precautions of note, I recommend avoiding Veggie Enzymes if you are allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients in this supplement, or if you are taking blood thinners. Consult with a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
6. Gluten/Dairy Digestive Enzymes
Two of the most common food sensitivities found in people with Hashimoto’s are gluten and dairy. Gluten (the main reactive protein found in wheat), and casein (the main reactive protein found in dairy), are large protein molecules that may not be fully broken down in the human body and thus may be targeted by the immune system. As the antibodies to the foods are made by the same branch of the immune system (IgG branch) that makes antibodies to the thyroid, every time one of these reactive foods is consumed, there is a greater production of IgG antibodies — including antibodies to the thyroid.
Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) is a special enzyme that splits gluten into smaller fragments, making it easier to digest. It can be found in a combination enzyme product that also contains enzymes that break down casein, beta-lactoglobulin (whey), and lactose (milk sugar molecules found in dairy).
While these enzymes may not be enough to allow a person with celiac disease to eat a whole bowl of pasta, the enzymes can be very helpful for those with gluten and dairy sensitivities. I use this product whenever I go out to eat and am concerned about cross-contamination issues, and have used it after accidental consumption of dairy/gluten.
Here’s a scenario that I’ve experienced numerous times…
Me: “I follow a gluten/dairy/soy-free diet. Are you able to accommodate my dietary needs?”
Cook/waiter/family member: ”Of course.”
Food comes, I try it, it tastes suspicious…
Me: “Are you sure this doesn’t have dairy/gluten?”
Cook/waiter/family member: “No dairy/gluten… just cheese/butter/casein/whey/flour!”
Me: “I knew it! Glad I always keep my gluten/dairy digestive enzymes in my purse!”
Maybe you can relate? 🙂
I used to have severe reactions to dairy and gluten, but I have found that the Gluten/Dairy Digest blend of enzymes from Pure Encapsulations effectively minimizes my reactions when I accidentally consume small amounts of dairy and gluten. I still have a reaction, but instead of suffering for two or three days, I only have problems for a couple of hours after being exposed to gluten/dairy.
I should emphasize that using these enzymes is not an excuse to go crazy with gluten and dairy — I still recommend that most people with Hashimoto’s remove them from their diets long term — however, they are a great supplement to have on hand when eating out or accidentally exposed.
Who is most likely to benefit from Gluten/Dairy Digest?
If you react to gluten and dairy but want to enjoy a meal out on occasion, this type of enzyme may reduce the symptoms of accidental exposure to these food sensitivities.
Who should avoid Gluten/Dairy Digest?
While this may seem like a trick question ;-), it is important to note that this supplement is not helpful for those who have celiac disease. At this time, there are no major drug interactions or precautions of note, but please check the ingredients list to ensure that you are not sensitive or allergic to any ingredients listed. Consult with your healthcare physician prior to consuming these types of enzymes if you are pregnant or lactating, or if you are taking blood thinners.
7. Systemic Enzymes
Systemic enzymes are also known as proteolytic enzymes and act as natural immune modulators, bringing our immune system into balance. Systemic enzymes are a blend of plant and animal-derived enzymes, and may contain a mix of some of the following ingredients:
- Bromelain (from pineapple)
- Papain (from papaya)
- Rutin or rutoside trihydrate (bioflavonoid)
- Chymotrypsin (porcine)
- Trypsin (porcine)
- Pancreatin (porcine)
Systemic enzymes break down inflammatory cytokines (immune response proteins) that are seen in autoimmune disease. They also contain proteases that may be involved with breaking down pathogens such as bacteria and parasites. Furthermore, these enzymes speed up tissue repair by reducing inflammation.
Additionally, the enzymes reduce the antibodies to both foods and the thyroid, by breaking down circulating immune complexes (CICs) that are formed in autoimmune disease.
Systemic enzymes have been studied extensively in Europe, and have become a popular alternative to pain medications for arthritic disease and many inflammatory conditions.
A poster presentation from April 21-24, 2002 presented in Cannes, France, found that Wobenzym, a proprietary blend of systemic enzymes, taken at a dose of five capsules, three times per day, showed very promising results in Hashimoto’s. (*Wobenzym N is the formulation that was studied. However, I’ve also seen similar clinical benefits with Wobenzym PS.)
Here’s the summary of the study:
Forty people with Hashimoto’s who were taking levothyroxine, were given systemic enzymes for three to six months. The patients reported a reduction of thyroid symptoms, a normalization of thyroid ultrasounds, a reduction in the number of inflammatory cells in the thyroid, and significant decreases in TPO and TG antibodies.
Many patients were able to reduce their dose of levothyroxine, and some were able to discontinue their medications completely. Additionally, cholesterol profiles improved in the patients that had high cholesterol levels before starting the enzymes.
As systemic enzymes act on the immune system altogether, using them is also thought to be protective of developing future autoimmune conditions.
The key thing to remember about these enzymes is that they are not to be taken with food, rather they should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 45 minutes before a meal, or one and a half hours after a meal. Otherwise, they will get used up in the process of digestion instead of getting into the bloodstream to act on circulating immune complexes.
NOTE: While most labels of systemic enzymes will state to take six capsules daily, the dose of enzymes used in this particular study was 2.5 times higher at five capsules, three times per day (on an empty stomach).
Experienced clinicians will use five capsules, three times per day, with a glass of water (at least 8 ounces or 240 mL). In some cases, even ten capsules, three times per day may be used in the acute phase to modulate the immune system effectively. The six capsules per day dose on the label is thought to be a maintenance dose.
I personally used 10 capsules per day, three times per day on an empty stomach, at one point in my healing journey. I did find that it benefitted my thyroid antibodies, as well as my overall food sensitivities and levels of inflammation. However, I did have some big challenges with trying to get my clients to take 30 pills a day on an empty stomach — many thought that it was difficult and impractical to take that many pills per day, not to mention, cost-prohibitive.
When I set out to create my own supplement line, I had a wishlist of products, and two of the top products on that wishlist were:
- A hypoallergenic protein powder (hello AI Paleo Protein)
- Systemic enzymes that didn’t require 30 pills a day to be beneficial 😉
I’m excited to share that Rootcology Systemic Enzymes are finally here! They contain a combination of herbs, nutrients, and proteolytic enzymes that support the clearance of circulating immune complexes and self antibodies, as well as food antibodies.
And the best part? The starting dose is 2 capsules per day, on an empty stomach. 🙂 Please note that Rootcology’s Systemic Enzymes contain a much stronger formulation than is used in most other brands and studies. Do not exceed the recommended dose of Rootcology Systemic Enzymes unless working under the guidance of an experienced practitioner.
I have also had success using Systemic Enzyme Complex from Pure Encapsulations, as well as Wobenzym, in myself and my clients in the past! Please do note that the Pure Encapsulations and Wobeznym brands do require a higher number of daily capsules.
Who is most likely to benefit from systemic enzymes?
My clients report a big reduction in thyroid antibodies (even TG antibodies, as systemic enzymes are the rare supplements that can help with reducing them), a reduction in food sensitivities, a reduction in pain, and improved wound healing. Here is an assessment that will help you determine if you could benefit from systemic enzymes.
For each symptom, give yourself one point.
- No infections showing up on gut tests, despite gut symptoms
- Recurrent infections after antimicrobial protocols
- Joint pain
- Elevated thyroid antibodies
- Thyroid nodules
- Thyroid antibodies
- Inflammation
- Alzheimers
- Angina
- Atherosclerosis
- Food sensitivities
- Behçet’s disease
- Diabetes
- Diabetic nephropathy
- Eczema
- Fibrocystic breasts
- Glomerulonephritis
- Gout
- Hepatitis
- Infertility, miscarriages
- Kidney stones
- Lymphedema
- Multiple sclerosis
- Myocardial infarction
- Osteoarthritis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Prostatitis, copulatory dysfunction
- Psoriasis
- Pyelonephritis
- Respiratory tract infections
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Tendonitis
- Thrombophlebitis
- Urinary tract infections
- Uveitis
If you have two or more of these symptoms, or any of these conditions, you will likely benefit from systemic enzymes.
Who should avoid systemic enzymes?
Systemic enzymes should not be taken by pregnant or lactating women. Individuals with allergies to pineapple or papaya should not take products containing bromelain. Some individuals with Candida may react to these enzymes. In addition, systemic enzymes should be avoided by those currently taking leukotriene inhibitors, and those with unhealed ulcers should avoid systemic enzymes until the ulcers are healed.
The Takeaway
Enzyme deficiencies are common in those with Hashimoto’s, and supplementing with the right types of enzymes can relieve many of the symptoms associated with the condition. Some people may have just one enzyme deficiency, while others may have multiple deficiencies.
Specific enzymes can help lower inflammation in the body, speed up tissue repair, reduce food sensitivities, decrease thyroid antibodies, improve nutrient absorption, reduce pain, improve cholesterol levels, and even reduce harmful pathogens.
Have you tried enzymes? Have they made a difference in your health?
I hope that you find this information helpful on your journey in overcoming Hashimoto’s!
P.S. I love interacting with my readers on social media, and I encourage you to join my Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest community pages to stay on top of thyroid health updates and meet others who are following similar health journeys. For recipes, a FREE Thyroid Diet start guide, and notifications about upcoming events, be sure to sign up for my email list!
Note: Originally published in February 2015, this article has been revised and updated for accuracy and thoroughness.
Me doctor recommended Ortho Molecular Products “Digestzyme-V”, can you tell me about this and which category it fits under?
Kim – thank you for reaching out. I’m sorry, but I am not familiar with this supplement. I recommend you discuss this with your practitioner. 🙂
Izabella
I’m interested in enzymes listed 1-5. A lot of of the enzymes of each are overlapping however. I don’t think I should get all 5, so which do I focus on? For example, I was thinking I could benefit from the broad spectrum but the veggie one seems to encompass these enzymes.
CG – thank you for reaching out.💕 What type of enzymes are best to take depends on the symptoms you are experiencing, and the types of foods that are problematic for you. Here are a couple articles you might find interesting:
HOW VEGGIE ENZYMES CAN HELP YOU FEEL BETTER AFTER MEALS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/veggie-enzymes-and-hashimotos/
REDUCING THYROID ANTIBODIES WITH WOBENZYM
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/reducing-thyroid-antibodies-wobenzym/
Linda- Here is the link: Betaine HCP Pepsin
http://www.purecapspro.com/thyroidrootcause/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=929
May I ask what the proper dose of Pure Encapsulations Bentaine and Pepsin were for you. It is recommended 1 at each meal, but I may need more and don’t want to overdo. Thank You!
Deb – thank you for following this page. You should start with the directions on the bottle and adjust your dosage from there. I cannot tell you specifically what you can and cannot do over the internet as I could be held liable for what would happen to you.
I had my thyroid removed because of thyroid cancer. I have been cancer free 6 years, but my levels got high all of the sudden. I am on synthroid. I am having the symptoms you are describing. Can I still take the supplements you are listing?
Linda – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. <3 I am so happy to hear you are cancer free! Please understand, I am not able to advise on whether these supplements 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.
Sooo scary!!!!Please advice me what brend of enzyme should I buy to be sure I do not end up in the same condition
Dr Wentz, what tests would you recommend to determine what enzymes I may benefit from? I have done Thyroid labs and have antibodies pointing to Hashimotos but haven not been diagnosed by an MD yet, waiting to be seen.
I have only small intestine, no colon due to UC in the past.
Thank you very much
Marina
Marina – 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/
I had stopped taking the Betaine HCL after about 6 weeks, because I seemed to be better, very few symptoms of GERD (I stopped taking it due to requirement for stool test). Since then, I have noticed some GERD symptoms, especially when eating protein meals, so I’ve since added it back into my supplement regimen. I appreciated this reminder though about the purpose for taking it and I already have your book, well-worn, so I’ll reference it for the proper way to take it, thank you. Repetition is good when finding one’s root cause, I think, because my brain still isn’t as sharp as before the Hashi (probably was 7-8 years in the making) and it’s good that you present and re-present this info in different ways, articles, books, webinars, etc.
http://www.bodyenlightenment.me/articles/2012/05/do-the-beet-test-how-to-tell-if-you-have-low-stomach-acid-weak-digestion/
The reason I’m highlighting this is because in your book and your current post you write about probiotics, digestive enzymes and Betaine w/Pepsin. I’ve been following this protocol; however, now I believe I’m not taking the correct supplements and need to change to a better brand. I was wondering why I still had some of the symptoms described for low stomach acid and contributed it to something else. I will be ordering my supplements from the site you suggested.
N. Borse- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Holly- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Hello Dr. Wentz…thank you for all this good information. I’ve been taking the Wobenzyme for about a month now and since the last two mornings I’m waking up with nausea and it continues into the afternoon. I’m just thinking it might be too much for my stomach and maybe I should hold off for a while and start on probiotics. I do also want to let you know that my anxiety completely vanished while taking the enzymes and I’m sleeping better. I’m afraid the anxiety and insomnia will come back when I stop taking them, but I can’t stand the burning and nausea in my stomach.
Deborah – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I am sorry to hear you are experiencing these side effects. Please understand it would not be legal or appropriate for me to give any type of medical advice here. I recommend that your contact your trusted clinician who’s care you are under. <3
Ary- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Jo- Thank you so much for your support. I’m looking forward to hearing your progress on this page. Make sure to take the book slow, take notes, highlight, and establish a baseline when making changes. 🙂
I am treating for hashimoto’s with synthroid 75mcg a day, have been on treatment since last November, started with 50mcg went to 62.5 after 3 months and after other 3 went to present dose. The doctor will see me in september again, the cholesterol went down a little
and the t3 also. I read about supplementing with woobenzym but it says on their label to take it on empty stomach (away from food) for muscle pain, my question is; should i take it with food to help with the thyroid problem? Would it help also with fat digestion?
I normally take Transformation Enzymes LipoZyme to help digest fat, also take selenium and zinc. Your comments will be greatly appreciated.
Neli- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Phyllis- There are quite a few options for thyroid medications. In my experience, what works for one person may not work for another. If your doctor will not prescribe the medication you are looking for, ask your local pharmacist for doctors in your area who prescribe the medication you are looking to try. Have you read these articles?
WHICH THYROID MEDICATION IS BEST?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-thyroid-medication-is-best/
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
Wendy- There are quite a few options for thyroid medications. In my experience, what works for one person may not work for another. If your doctor will not prescribe the medication you are looking for, ask your local pharmacist for doctors in your area who prescribe the medication you are looking to try. Have you read these articles?
WHICH THYROID MEDICATION IS BEST?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-thyroid-medication-is-best/
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
Karen- I can’t make any direct medical recommendations to any single person for legal reasons. 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
CLINICIAN DATABASE
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
I am so disappointed that my Dr. Didn’t suggest any help w that before the surgery.
Bonnie- Thyroid tissue can regenerate, but the rate at which it does is not always predictable. Thus, some are able to stop the autoimmune attack on their thyroid and regain normal thyroid function. Others can reduce the dose of medications, and others will need to stay on the medications indefinitely. I’m currently working on some protocols to help with tissue regeneration.
Reversing Hashimoto’s means different things to different people. For some, it means a reduction in symptoms and for others it means a reduction in your antibodies. I had both. Here a few articles that might be helpful for you 🙂
IS IT POSSIBLE TO RECOVER THYROID FUNCTION IN HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/is-it-possible-to-recover-thyroid-function-in-hashimotos
REVERSING AUTOIMMUNITY? AND THE PERFECT STORM
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/reversing-autoimmunity-and-the-perfect-storm/
HASHIMOTO’S SELF CARE, GETTING AND STAYING IN REMISSION
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-self-care
Thank you for writing. I hope the book has helped your daughter. If this helps, I also had a reaction to pineapple, so I put off taking Systemic enzyme, but when I took Systemic Enzymes I did not react to them, and I can eat lots of pineapple without a reaction now. She may be different, but it may be worth a try. Keep me posted….
Wobenzym basically eats mucoid placque in your digestive track. Doing so can release any parasites you may have had hiding there. Sounds like symptoms of Babesia (I have). Might want to have that checked out. I am not a medical doctor, nor can I offer advice, but I take 15 drops of Quina twice a day to treat the Babesia.
Paula- There are quite a few options for thyroid medications. In my experience, what works for one person may not work for another. If your doctor will not prescribe the medication you are looking for, ask your local pharmacist for doctors in your area who prescribe the medication you are looking to try. Have you read these articles?
WHICH THYROID MEDICATION IS BEST?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-thyroid-medication-is-best/
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
Thom
Thom- I hope you check out this article as well! 🙂
MTHFR
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/mthfr-hashimotos-and-nutrients
thanks,
Janine
Janine- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Thomas- There are quite a few options for thyroid medications. In my experience, what works for one person may not work for another. If your doctor will not prescribe the medication you are looking for, ask your local pharmacist for doctors in your area who prescribe the medication you are looking to try. Have you read these articles?
WHICH THYROID MEDICATION IS BEST?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-thyroid-medication-is-best/
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
Deborah- Most thyroid conditions result from the immune system attacking the thyroid because the immune system is out of balance. Even when the thyroid is taken out surgically, is ‘dead’, or treated with radioactive iodine the autoimmunity still persists in most cases. Many people will have their thyroids removed, and will develop new autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc. The immune system just finds a different target. We need to re-balance the immune system to prevent this (sometimes the autoimmunity can be reversed as well). The gut determines your immune system. With the exception of discussing proper thyroid medication dosing, the majority of my website and my book focuses on balancing the immune system. The info I present is based on my own research and journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
miriam- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Susan- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
How can I know if my stomach acid is low? And should the enzymes be prescribed by the endocrynologist or other doctor?
Thank you!
Karolina
Karolina- You may find this article interesting! 🙂
HASHIMOTO’S AND LOW STOMACH ACID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-low-stomach-acid
Alyssa- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Lori- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Marilyn- I strongly encourage you to keep looking until you find a skilled practitioner who can help you with Hashimoto’s, they are out there. Here is an article I wrote about my challenges finding Dr. Right.
MY RECENT CHALLENGES AND FINDING DR. RIGHT
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/my-challenges-and-finding-dr-right
I have Hashimoto, avoid gluten, vegetarian, no fish, organic eggs and cheese sometimes, taking a lot of whole food suplements.
Read about the systemic enzymes and their good effect on antibodies. Would it be ok for me to take these enzymes even though I don’t eat meet? Trying to get pregnant and need to lower my antibodies. Do not take Thyroid medicine, but I do take tyrosin and jod.
Many thanks,
Connie
Connie- 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 use NOW Foods brand).
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.
AUTOIMMUNE PALEO DIET
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/autoimmune-paleo-diet
Andrea- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Judy- You are so very welcome! 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
Lorrie- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
I have the same question. Your answer is not relevant–we just want to know if taking systemic enzymes at or near the same time as thyroid meds will impact or negate the efficacy of either. Thanks!!
Judy – thank you for following this page. Please contact my team at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be happy to help you.
Natalie- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Janet- Thank you so much for your support! You may also like to check out the doctors that other patients recommend on this list:
CLINICIAN DATABASE
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
Dr. Jay- Thank you so much for sharing! 🙂
K. Anderson- Thank you so much for your support. I’m looking forward to hearing your progress on this page. Make sure to take the book slow, take notes, highlight, and establish a baseline when making changes. 🙂
Jenni- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Brenda- you may be interested in my 12 week online program called Hacking Hashimoto’s that covers all of the strategies that I go through with my one-on-one clients, in a self-paced format, so that participants have access to all of the things I’ve learned about Hashimoto’s without having to schedule costly consults with me or another practitioner. There are a few requirements that you should pay attention to, such as my book is a required read.
HACKING HASHIMOTOS
http://hackinghashimotos.com/
Jess- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Lydia- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Therese- thank you so much for your support! I know it’s a lot to ask, but if you haven’t already, would you mind leaving a review on Amazon? 🙂
http://www.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Thyroiditis-Lifestyle-Interventions-Treating/dp/0615825796/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8
Lydia- There are quite a few options for thyroid medications. In my experience, what works for one person may not work for another. If your doctor will not prescribe the medication you are looking for, ask your local pharmacist for doctors in your area who prescribe the medication you are looking to try. Have you read these articles?
WHICH THYROID MEDICATION IS BEST?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-thyroid-medication-is-best/
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
Valentine- Thyroid tissue can regenerate, but the rate at which it does is not always predictable. Thus, some are able to stop the autoimmune attack on their thyroid and regain normal thyroid function. Others can reduce the dose of medications, and others will need to stay on the medications indefinitely. I’m currently working on some protocols to help with tissue regeneration.
Reversing Hashimoto’s means different things to different people. For some, it means a reduction in symptoms and for others it means a reduction in your antibodies. I had both. Here a few articles that might be helpful for you 🙂
IS IT POSSIBLE TO RECOVER THYROID FUNCTION IN HASHIMOTO’S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/is-it-possible-to-recover-thyroid-function-in-hashimotos
REVERSING AUTOIMMUNITY? AND THE PERFECT STORM
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/reversing-autoimmunity-and-the-perfect-storm/
HASHIMOTO’S SELF CARE, GETTING AND STAYING IN REMISSION
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-self-care
Elsie- Going gluten free is always the first step that I recommend. I’ve found through my page that a good percentage feel better off of gluten. About 20% will actually go into remission by doing so. Some researchers have found that three to six months on a gluten-free diet can eliminate organ-specific antibodies.
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/
Rose- Most thyroid conditions result from the immune system attacking the thyroid because the immune system is out of balance. Even when the thyroid is taken out surgically, is ‘dead’, or treated with radioactive iodine the autoimmunity still persists in most cases. Many people will have their thyroids removed, and will develop new autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc. The immune system just finds a different target. We need to re-balance the immune system to prevent this (sometimes the autoimmunity can be reversed as well). The gut determines your immune system. With the exception of discussing proper thyroid medication dosing, the majority of my website and my book focuses on balancing the immune system. The info I present is based on my own research and journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Leslie- You may find this article helpful! 🙂
GOT ACID REFLUX?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/got-acid-reflux
Ann- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Debbie- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Barbara- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Pat- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Lee- I really like this one.
Betaine HCP Pepsin
http://www.purecapspro.com/thyroidrootcause/pe/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=929
Lynda- The digestive enzymes should stimulate your body’s own production
of acid, and help you extract nutrients from your food. After some
time, you should be able to get off the enzymes as your own body
begins to produce enough digestive acid.
Christina- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20
Hashimoto’s Protocol
https://smile.amazon.com/Hashimotos-Protocol-Reversing-Thyroid-Symptoms/dp/006257129X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1482698453&sr=8-1&keywords=Hashimoto%27s+Protocol
Leanne- The digestive enzymes should stimulate your body’s own production
of acid, and help you extract nutrients from your food. After some
time, you should be able to get off the enzymes as your own body
begins to produce enough digestive acid. Here is an article you may find interesting! 🙂
HASHIMOTO’S AND LOW STOMACH ACID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-low-stomach-acid
Can you use this enzyme protocol before doing a full elimination diet or are the diet and this protocol to be used together?
Speaking about enzymes you don’t mention Serrapeptase. Do you think this enzyme is good to be taken by people with Hashimoto’s? Thank you.
Pepa – please, understand that due to liability issues, I am unable to answer specific medical questions.
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
Thank you very much for your answer, but in my country there is no such thing as functional medicine clinician. We are treated ONLY with T4 medication and nothing else. We cannot consult anybody except Internet. And we are all doctors of ourselves. I’m happy to have possibility to read your materials and watch your videos. Thank you, Izabella!
Dr Izzabella:
I would like to start using Wobenzym. How many tablets should I take to reduce antibodies ?
Thanks
Pablo
Pablo – thank you for following this page. You should start with the directions on the bottle and adjust your dosage from there. I cannot tell you specifically what you can and cannot do over the internet as I could be held liable for what would happen to you.
If one was having a problem spacing out systemic enzymes due to timing of other supplements and meals. Would there be any contraindications to taking systemic enzymes on an empty stomach but at the same time as thyroid replacement medication? Or with other supplements that are to be taken without food? I haven’t been able to find any information about this online. Any thoughts would be helpful.
Brentley – thank you for following this page. I’m hesitant to say what you should do … based on liability. If something were to happen to you I could lose my license
The problem when combining all these is that you may be over supplementing.
I do outline this in the book and have a full chapter on supplementation explaining.
Have you picked up a copy?
Which book is this in, i have hashi protocol, don’t see a chapter on it but maybe i’m missing it? Curious to know how to take digestive enzymes because here you say without food but the supplement you recommend by pure encapsulations says with food. A big troubled here. your help is appreciated.
Lea – thank you for following! In the Hashimoto’s Protocol book I discuss enymes in the Gut balance section. As for when to take, I recommend following the directions on the bottle.
Thanks for the information. My digestion is really off due to no gallbladder and no thyroid. I switched from Armour to WP thyroid and have gained 15 lbs. I take Pure Encapulations Digest GB – but that doesn’t seem to be making a difference any longer. Tired of being constantly hungry. I appreciate any suggestions you might have. I had papillary thyroid cancer. Currently no antibodies. 🙂
Carol – 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, is ‘dead’, or treated with radioactive iodine the autoimmunity still persists in most cases. Many people will have their thyroids removed, and will develop new autoimmune disorders such as Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, etc. The immune system just finds a different target. We need to re-balance the immune system to prevent this (sometimes the autoimmunity can be reversed as well). The gut determines your immune system. With the exception of discussing proper thyroid medication dosing, the majority of my website and my book focuses on balancing the immune system. The info I present is based on my own research and journey for overcoming my autoimmune thyroid condition.
Hashimoto’s 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
Hi dr. Wentz,
So I searched and searched for the Systemic Enzyme Complex from Pure Encap. but I could not find it in Europe. I live in The Netherlands. Can you recommend another product? And, is it enough to use the Systemic Enzyme Complex or is it a must to also use the Digestive Enzymes Ultra also by Pure Encap.
Please let me know :).
Thanks!
Sara
Sara – 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.
Is it ok to take these at the same time as our thyroid medication? Thank you
Kerry – 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.
I love Wobenzym! Thanks to this article I bought them and after two years of constant pain in my neck and shoulders (Currently diagnosed with Fibromyalgia) I am pain free! And last appointment with endocrinologist showed a tiny reduction of bigger nodule! Thanks
Marlene – thank you for sharing! I’m looking forward to seeing your progress here. 🙂
I have Celiac, hypothyroid (no antibodies), EPI, RA and fibromyalgia. I take Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra. Should I still add the systemic enzymes? It seems there are overlaps in the ingredients. Im on a limited budget and don’t want to take more than is needed.
I used to use Creon but quit using those because of the fillers used.
MaryEllen – thank you for reaching out. Please understand I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here. 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.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
CLINICIAN DATABASE
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
I am wondering about the difference between digestive bitters and digestive enzymes. Would it be beneficial to take both, or is one better to take when experiencing hypo thyroid, gall bladder/pancreatic issues and SIBO.
Keisha – thank you for reaching out. Please understan, I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here. 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.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
CLINICIAN DATABASE
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
Greetings Izabella,
I am so grateful to have discovered your book few years ago, soon after I got diagnosed with Hashimoto. Also for your openness, and courage to speak not only about physical symptoms many of us are going through, but also emotional challenges.
On this blog page you discuss enzymes. I do use HCL with Pepsin from NowFood, and just noticed that latest bottle has different ingredients: pepsin has fungal origin, from Aspergillus niger (earlier it was wild boar pepsin). Please advise if fungal origin will have negative impact on someone who is also suffering from Candida and/or mold allergy?
Many thanks, may God Bless you
Biljana
Biljana – 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. As a Pharmacist I am very picky about what brands I recommend to my family, clients and friends. Pure Encapsulations is a pharmaceutical grade brand that has extremely tight quality control and manufacturing guidelines. Each product undergoes rigorous testing by a third party laboratory to verify label claims, potency and purity. All the products sold by Pure Encapsulations are free of gluten, dairy, and additives that may impair absorption. These supplements are normally only available through healthcare professionals, however the company has agreed to allow me to set up a store on their website for the supplements I have found helpful for Hashimoto’s. Here are some links you might find helpful.
https://www.purerxo.com/thyroidpharmacist/rxo/products/product_details.asp?ProductsID=929
Link to the store
http://www.purerxo.com/thyroidpharmacist/rxo/company/my_recommendations.asp
Dear Dr. Izabella,
thank you so much for your impressive work! Quick question: I have fat-malabsorption (I am low in all fat-soluble vitamins, in spite of taking supplements). My gallbladder was removed 20 years ago. Would taking Liver & Gallbladder Support help? Not sure since it is meant to support gallbladder functioning. I have been taking broad-spectrum enzymes which have not helped. FYI, I have Hashimoto, Reactive Hypogycemia, I test positive for Crohn and I have Eosinophilic esophagitis. Thank you!
Maria – thank you for reaching out. Please understand, I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here. 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.
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPROACH TO THE THYROID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/functional-medicine-approach-to-the-thyroid
CLINICIAN DATABASE
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/clinician-database.html
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
Hi,
Thank you for all of the work you are doing to educate and assist patients in achieving wellness.
I had one small question. I know betaine production naturally decreases with age. However, for a relatively young person have you ever seen low betaine production increase after betaine supplementation? In other words, do supplementation or other approaches ever encourage the body to again generate its own stomach acid at adequate or normal levels?
Thank you for your time and any insights you might lend on the matter.
Berta – thank you for reaching out. You might find this article helpful.
HASHIMOTO’S AND LOW STOMACH ACID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-low-stomach-acid/
Acid Reflux Video
https://www.facebook.com/ThyroidLifestyle/videos/917587155058494/
Dr. Dr Izabella, I am taking my thyroid medication first thing in the morning and have my breakfest after 30 – 60 minutes. Could I take wobenzym together with levothyroxin, or is it a bad idea?
Best Regards
Joanna – thank you for reaching out. I wish I could give you more direct advice but, each person will react differently. I would advise you to ask your personal pharmacist or a trusted clinician who’s care you are under. I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here.
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
Izabella, thank you so much for sharing all of your research. It has helped me immensely in my healing journey.
I have a question regarding the systemic enzymes. I have recently started taking Wobenzym (however not in the dose that was used in the study) and I have noticed some improvement in my symptoms. Would I have to continue with this enzyme indefinitely or would there be some end point?
Thank you.
Kristina – thank you for reaching out. Here is an article you might find helpful.
REDUCING THYROID ANTIBODIES WITH WOBENZYM
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/reducing-thyroid-antibodies-wobenzym/
Hi, great info, can these different type of enzymes be combined (ie betaine pepsin AND a broad spectrum enzyme) or some other combo above?
Thanks
Michael
Michael – thank you for reaching out. I wish I could give you more direct advice but, each person will react differently. I would advise you to ask your personal pharmacist or a trusted clinician who’s care you are under. I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time, and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.
I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.
Hashimoto’s Root Cause
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8…
Hashimoto’s Protocol
thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol
First of all thank you soooo much for your contributions! I’m 29. I had to get a health report for my job and a problem was discovered with my ekg, which lead the cardiologist ask if i had a heart attack. And as no problem was seen in the blood tests and eco he was confused (i was almost failing the health report!) Then some other doctor told me it might be my thyroid, but then the values were almost(!) okey. Then i bought your hashimoto’s protocol and i swallowed it like in a few nights. I did the anti TPO and anti T tests in a private lab. Both were around 8.
I wasn’t satisfied of course. I made my mother and father do the test. Mother’s anti-TPO is avove 300 and father’s is above 40.
I feel so hopeful and hopeless at the same time. Because now i know my future and that i’m not imagining that my physical and mental performance is lowering day by day for years, and also i van do something about it both for myself and my parents (first things firat, i begged them to go gluten free).
And the question is on the hopeless side. I’m living in a country where it’s impossible to find most of the supplements you advise, especially betaine hcl with pepsin. I can only find two brands with pepsin with glutamic acid. May it work ?
I would really like to buy pure encapsulation stuff but it’s impossible with all the customs regulations. So will pepsin&glutamic acid work ?
Thank you again for being a real healer with the right mind.
Seyhan – thank you for reaching out. <3 I wish I could give you more direct advice but, I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here. 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 diseases, rather than disease symptoms.
If you cannot find a Functional Medicine practitioner in your area, it is possible to work with an
overseas practitioner remotely via Skype or some other online video platform. Here's a link which might help:
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/europe1.html
Below are some international resources, where you may be able to find other supplement brands recommended in my Hashimoto’s Protocol book or similar products:
* http://www.naturaldispensary.co.uk – based in the UK, but ships to most of Europe. Use “Izabella Wentz” as referring practitioner
* http://www.iherb.com/ – has many supplements that ships all over the world
* nutritiongeeks.co.uk – has most Designs For Health products
* Vitamins – biowitalni.pl
* https://www.suplementosdouglas.com
* https://www.nutrimi.es
* https://www.herbolariohierbabuena.com
* http://www.purenature.es
* superfood.nl
* Vitamins/supplements – farmaline.nl
* http://www.bio-health.co.uk/
* http://www.purebio.co.uk
* https://www.amritanutrition.co.uk/dr-wentz-recommended-products
Hello Dr Wentz,
Can digestive enzyme supplements cause digestive upset? If so, is this a temporary reaction until one adapts to the enzymes? How long does this usually take? Also, I live in a small town in Nevada, without specialists nearby. I have a good primary care doc, and a good acupuncturist. I am only taking 50mg of Levothyroxine, and the Chinese herb supplements provided by my acupuncturist. My thyroid, T-3, is now testing normal, so my primary care doc thinks all is well. I am gluten free, mostly grain free, nearly 100%organic, etc. However, I still am not well, and I would like to see a specialist who is open to the compounded T-3/T-4 combo with natural thyroid. I can go to San Francisco or Davis fairly easily. I am having trouble figuring out who to see. Many thyroid docs, but few specify Hashimoto’s specialty/expertise. I see your list of docs who have ordered your book. Is the best course to call each one in my area? Any suggestions of a more efficient way to find an endocrinologist who specializes in Hashimoto’s and who is willing to prescribe compound meds?
M M B – thank you for reaching out. They are mild and most people do not adversely react to them. Some people may have reactions to ingredients such as pineapple and papaya and there may be some die off reaction, such as when taking probiotics. I would start low and go slow 🙂
I have a Hashimoto’s Self-Management Program, which is a 12 week education program that walks you through, step by step, all the strategies I use with my one-on-one clients, in a self-paced format, so that people have access to all of the things I’ve learned about Hashimoto’s without having to schedule costly consults with me or another practitioner. It allows you to ask questions includes a free trial. For more information please go to https://thyroidpharmacist.com/enroll-in-hashimotos-self-management/
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. Here are some links that might be helpful. 🙂
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/
I have been on the search for the strangest thing – what has made me feel energetic, well and not achy- all of a sudden. I have tried to jot down each thought of what it could be that made this big difference I just noticed. After my own research I deduced that it had to be the Betaine Hcl. So to reinforce my belief I started doing some online reading. Thanks for this article that helps confirm my belief! To anyone wondering if they should get it, please note, I have only once or twice noticed a direct difference from taking any type of supplement, BUT with Betaine Hcl, which I took for a recent bout of heartburn not thinking it was related to my hashi’s, it was immediate relief of heartburn, overnight that I felt good, and after taking it maybe 5-6 times in the following week that I kept think, “wow, I am feeling great”! It is not expensive and is worth a try. I can not believe how much better I am feeling.
Background: I am female, over 50, had hashi’s for about 15 years and for the last 16 years felt like I was pulling my body through mud to accomplish anything. And, never had heartburn (other than during pregnancy) except for the 2 weeks prior to trying Betaine HCL.
Mia – thank you for sharing what has worked for you! I’m looking forward to seeing your progress here. 🙂
Hello Dr. Wentz. I’ve been reaching alot through your books Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Root Cause and Hashimoto’s Protocol. I’ve never taken digestive enzymes before where do I start? I don’t have stomach pains, I make 1-2 bowel movements daily, and I’m having trouble gaining weight. I was thinking that I should start with the Liver and Gallbladder support or would Betaine with Pepsin be a good place to start. Any suggestions?
Krista – thank you for following this page. For questions pertaining to the protocols and supplements please contact my team at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be happy to help you. <3
What type of enzyme would you suggest for someone who has had a gallbladder removal and a history of stomach ulcers?
I have many issues with my stomach.
Thank you
Katherine
Katherine – thank you for following this page. Betaine HCL with Pepsin is very helpful for people who no longer have their gallbladder. You may want to look into taking an ox bile supplement to help you break down fats so you don’t become deficient in nutrients. Supplementing with bile salts can also take a lot of strain off the digestive system when a gallbladder is no longer there to concentrate and release bile as needed for digestion of fats.
HASHIMOTO’S AND LOW STOMACH ACID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-low-stomach-acid/
Acid Reflux Video
https://www.facebook.com/ThyroidLifestyle/videos/917587155058494/
Thank you for your reply, I would love to take Betaine HCL with Pepsin but I have a history of stomach ulcers, so I will try the Ox Bile Substitute. Is that ok to take with a history of ulcers?
Katherine – thank you for reaching out. I wish I could give you more direct advice but, each person will react differently. I would advise you to ask your trusted clinician who’s care you are under. I am not able to respond directly to these types of questions here.
I have Hashimoto’s… I currently use the gluten/dairy digest as well as a broad spectrum enzyme.
Are you recommending taking all of these different types daily? Or does it depend on what we eat? That seems like a lot of pills… in addition to the other supplements. I wish the pharmaceutical companies would make a “multi” enzyme kind of like a multi vitamin that had everything in one capsule!
Thanks!
Gina – thank you for reaching out. I am not able to advise on whether these supplements 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 or pharmacist. 🙂
Hi I have Hashimoto’s and no gallbladder should I be using enzymes. I sometimes get the burning heartburn feeling. If you could remend some enzymes for someone without a gallbladder. Thank you!?
Jaime – thank you for reaching out. Betaine HCL with Pepsin is very helpful for people who no longer have their gallbladder. You may want to look into taking an ox bile supplement to help you break down fats so you don’t become deficient in nutrients. Supplementing with bile salts can also take a lot of strain off the digestive system when a gallbladder is no longer there to concentrate and release bile as needed for digestion of fats.
HASHIMOTO’S AND LOW STOMACH ACID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-low-stomach-acid/
Acid Reflux Video
https://www.facebook.com/ThyroidLifestyle/videos/917587155058494/
I have Hashimoto’s and my labs come back fine. But I am experiencing hot one minute and cold the next. Joint and muscle pain, neck will hurt and digestive problems. Also falling asleep by 7:30 at night. Does it sound like maybe my medicine needs to be adjusted, even know my labs are fine. Thank you ?
Jamie – thank you for reaching out. Hashimoto’s is a complicated condition with many layers that need to be unraveled. 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 are some articles that I hope you find helpful.
THYROID AND COLD INTOLERANCE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/thyroid-and-cold-intolerance
OVERCOMING THYROID FATIGUE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-10-tips-for-overcoming-hashimotos-fatigue
THIAMINE AND THYROID FATIGUE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/thiamine-and-thyroid-fatigue
PAIN AND HASHIMOTOS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/pain-and-hashimotos
Hello,
It’s been 3 years i discovered having Hashimoto.
Fortunately, i found your website and book and i followed your protocols.
I used betaine HCL to overcome my low digestion problem and gastric reflux. It was successful, so i dit not take betaine anymore. Recently, i try to eat food with gluten and milk which i had avoided. First, i thought nothing happenned but i have my digestion problem came back. I stopped gluten and milk and i began to take betaine HCL. What can i do ? Thanks
Francois – thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your journey. <3 Sounds like you are on the right path. Gut healing is a journey; you may eed various interventions. In some cases, such as after consuming gluten, a bout of food poisoning, antibiotic treatment, or a stressful life period, you may need to start from scratch once more. Remember, be kind to yourself and learn to listen to your body so that you can support and feed it properly! You are worth it! You may find these articles helpful as well!
WHICH SUPPLEMENTS ACTUALLY HELP HASHIMOTO'S
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-supplements-actually-help-hashimotos/
LEAKY GUT
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/whats-causing-your-leaky-gut/
Hi there,
I am VD deficient, dry brittle hair/nails/skin (and other symptoms) so I think I will start with the Pancreatic Enzymes Plus. The bottle says to take 1 pill 3x per day with meals. Should I take before or after the meal? Is one pill enough or is there a formula like you have for the Betaine & Pepsin? I appreciate all suggestions. Thanks!
Stephanie – thank you so much for reaching out. For questions about the supplements please email my team at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be happy to help you. <3
Hi Dr. Wentz. I had gastric bypass surgery approximately 8 years ago. I’m sure I have low stomach acid from that alone.
I don’t have a functional medicine doctor close by that I work with. Do you have a directory to find one? I’m in Colorado.
Lisa – thank you so much for reaching out and sharing. I understand how hard this is. <3 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/
http://www.thyroidpharmacistconsulting.com/recommended-compounding-pharmacies.html
I have Hashimoto’s and was having asthma with sinusitis. Took systemic Enzymes by Pure encapsulation from this article hoping this would help with that along with helping my Hashimoto’s. I took 1 for 3 days felt so sick to my stomach with cramping like menstrual cramps. 5 days after stopping I still feel nauseous with cramping. I am 54 post menopausal with fibroid tumors. Is it possible to still be feeling sick? With only taking 1 a day for three days? I was thinking maybe it started eating away at my fibroids maybe waking them as to why I am cramping still with nausea? I don’t know but the symptoms all started after I took the Enzymes. Any in input on this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Tammy – thank you for reaching out. I am so sorry you had this experience. I am not able to advise on what is causing these symptoms without a comprehensive health assessment. I recommend that you discuss this with your personal doctor whose care you are under.
In a phased manner, I took all the supplements that were recommended from your book Hashimotos Protocol and did not improve. From my Diagnostic Solutions testing in the category of Digestion, I was very LOW on Elastase-1 (Suppressed pancreatic function). In the category of Bacterial Flora I received a LOW result for Enterococcus spp. (Insufficiency of beneficial bacteria) and a HIGH result for Clostridium spp. (Reduced digestive capacity). In the category of Immune Response I was very HIGH in Secretory IgA. This is leading me down the path of supplementing again, but maybe for a longer period of time with Betaine with Pepsin……In addition I have recently had multiple occurrences of gout in one foot and an episode of Raynauds syndrome in my other foot’s toes. I am thinking about trying Wobenzym again after trying Betaine with Pepsin thinking that it may help with these issues……Without being specific to my situation, would you typically recommend I try one supplement at a time?
Walt – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. <3 I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm. If you have any other questions about the protocols or supplements please feel free to email my team at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be happy to help you.
I have been successfully following your recommended protocols for healing my gut with food restrictions and supplements. I’m feeling immensely better, but my antibodies have gone from 761 to 300, and I can’t get them to reduce any further for the last 6 months. I cut coffee out again to see if that will make a difference. I also tried using Wobenzym when I first started a year ago. It made me feel better in terms of reduced inflammation, however, I have since discovered that I am allergic to pineapple and possibly papain. Wobenzym made me break out around my nose and mouth. I also seem to have issues with nightshades. Is there anything you can recommend if I am interested in taking systemic or fat digestive enzymes? Even the products you endorse on your website seem to have “bromeliad” properties.
Elaine – thank you so much for sharing your journey with me. I understand how frustrating this can be. <3 IgG subclass antibodies have a half-life of 21 days and stick around on immune cells for about two to three months. They need constant “reminders” in the form of an antigen so that their production continues. If the antigen is removed, the antibodies will go away as well. The time period required for them to completely forget about the antigen and disappear is nine to twelve months.
The following things need to be in place for the antibodies to forget about the thyroid:
1) The thyroid stops expressing TPO.
2) The thyroid cells are not damaged and able to regenerate.
3) There are no substances that look like TPO (glandulars, gluten, infections, other triggers).
4) The immune system is balanced.
5) The autoimmune cells are confused by a decoy.
Some of these requirements are quick and easy, and others will take some time ...
The thyroid will stop expressing TPO for two reasons. One of them is thyroid destruction, which we do not want; the other is thyroid suppression. Thyroid suppression is induced by limiting iodine and taking a thyroid supplement to bring TSH to 1 mIU/L or so. This can take up to three months
In the case of autoimmune conditions, traditional and alternative medicine practitioners may focus on rebalancing the immune system (i.e. steroids and immune-modulating drugs used in traditional medicine, or else herbs, supplements, or acupuncture used in alternative medicine).
While this approach may be helpful for taming the immune system in the short term or overcoming autoimmune flares, it is often a temporary solution and the immune system may become imbalanced again once the medications,acupuncture, and herbs and supplements are stopped if the underlying issue that lead to the immune system imbalance is not addressed. Thus we can say that immune modulation treats only the symptoms, and not the root cause. As we can’t change genes, our approach to addressing the root cause of Hashimoto’s is threefold:
1) Reducing triggers
2) Eliminating intestinal permeability
3) Providing the body with nutrients to regenerate
Identifying and eliminating triggers and toxins will likely take a few weeks to a few months. Providing the thyroid with the nutrition needed to help rebuild and detoxify will likely take three to six months.
Rebalancing the immune system by addressing the root cause of autoimmunity (intestinal permeability, gut dysbiosis, infections) may take one to three years, but in the meantime, we can modulate the immune system and throw our thyroid antibodies a decoy. Here are some articles I hope you find helpful:
HASHIMOTO'S AND TPO ANTIBODIES
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-tpo-antibodies/
HASHIMOTO’S AND THYROID ANTIBODIES: PART 1
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-thyroid-antibodies/
HASHIMOTO’S AND THYROID ANTIBODIES: PART 2
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/part-2-mechanisms-reduce-thyroid-antibodies/
Hi Dr Wentz,
I must say I am reluctant to take enzymes that I am not sure that I need. At the same time, however, in the midst of brain fog it is difficult to know and then remember what tests I should ask for or what symptoms I should know about at an indicator.
I have lots of problems and I am on an elimination diet but the worst thing is that I get nasal inflammation (no phlegm), chronic burping and difficult breathing no matter what I eat!
I was reading through your article to see what I can do about it. My TSH is over at the moment and my medicine has recently been increased. I take D supplements, iron, selenium, and fish oil too.
The digestive issues are hard to discern from cardiovascular ones but empirical data shows no irregularities with the heart or lungs bar the occasional palpitation. However even when my TSH is within range (and even about 1-2) the burping and breathing difficulty does not abate.
I have had every test you can think of and the doctors all say there are no irregularities. But given that my thyroid antibodies are way over one thousand, I assume there is a more systemic issue at play here.
What signs and symptoms should I be looking out for? I take responsibility for my own actions so in your experience are there any enzymes I should pay particular attention to in order to find a way out of this mess I’m in? Any recommendations would be great so that I can read around the issue before making a decision on what to do.
By the way, your Root Cause book was extremely informative. Thank you very much.
Chris – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I am so sorry you are struggling with this. <3 Acid Reflux is a very common symptom that occurs in people with Hashimoto's. Studies have shown that most people with Hashimoto's either have very low stomach acid or produce no stomach acid at all. The person who does not have enough stomach acid will have the same symptoms as a person with an overabundance of stomach acid. There aren’t too many tell-tale signs of low stomach acid, other than perhaps feeling full and tired after meals as well as experiencing acid reflux-like symptoms. Other symptoms may include: low B12, low ferritin or iron levels, fatigue despite thyroid medications, and constipation/diarrhea. Here are some articles that might be helpful as well.
GOT ACID REFLUX?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/got-acid-reflux
HASHIMOTOS AND LOW STOMACH ACID
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-and-low-stomach-acid
GOING DAIRY FREE TO REVERSE HASHIMOTOS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/going-dairy-free-to-reverse-hashimotos
Dear Dr Wentz,
thank you so much for your reply. I guess it is important to stay strong. For whatever reason, Hashimoto’s seems to exert a sizeable influence all over my body and with no evidence of other conditions, the task is simply to find ways to manage this disease. The articles you sent me might mak all the difference so thank you 🙂
Chris – you are very welcome! Hang in there! <3 Hashimoto’s is often a combination of food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, adrenal issues, gut issues as well as an impaired ability to get rid of toxins. Any of those things would prevent a person from getting better. <3 Hashimoto's is very much an individual condition. While there are root cause commonalities, each person will have their own or in some cases, more than one root cause. You will have to start with the simplest modifications, by removing triggers, followed by repairing the other broken systems to restore equilibrium, allowing the body to rebuild itself. You will need to dig down to why the immune system is imbalanced in the first place and this will tell you how you begin to finally feel better, reduce your thyroid antibodies and even take your condition into remission.
You will have to create your own health timeline. Look back at your overall history as far back as you can remember. Look for infections, periods of severe stress, the use of medications (especially antibiotics, antacids, and oral contraceptives), accidents, and exposure to toxins. These are events that may have contributed to Hashimoto's. Once you do, you will know what types of changes you need to implement to make yourself feel better.
If you need further support, please check out the list of lab tests inside the “Testing” chapter of my book, Hashimoto’s Root Cause. I also offers a 12-week program, Hashimoto's Self Management Program. Here are some resources I hope you find helpful as well.
BUILDING YOUR OWN HEALTH TIMELINE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/sample-health-timeline/
Hashimoto’s Self-Management Program
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/enroll-in-hashimotos-self-management/
Do you have any recommendation for enzymes ( if any) for someone with history of hyper cholesterol since childhood and later diagnosed with Hashimoto’s. No digestive symptoms associated but cholesterol no changing with any intervention.
We have your book and following each and every advice but cholesterol slowly creeping up over the years (47,female).many thanks
Monica – thank you for reaching out. <3 I am not able to advise on which enzymes 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. Elevated levels of cholesterol can be a symptom of Adrenal fatigue, which can occur as chronic stress continues and moves from beginning to advanced stages. 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 resources I hope you find helpful.
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/database-recommended-clinicians/
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health
Hi Dr. Izabella,
I’ve been struggling with hypothyroidism since August 2015, have gone through 2 different endocrinologists, took Levothyroxine and Armour on separate occasions. My antibodies are still a bit high though not as high as when I was first diagnosed. I’m currently taking 100 mcg of El Thyroxine by Aspen but my overall concern is weight loss, eliminating my antibodies and getting off thyroid medication. I feel the medication is derailing my effort in the gym as well as my fitness goals. My questions are 1) how do I get healthy again? 2) how do I determine whether or not I need enzymes? 3) functional medicine practitioners aren’t covered by my insurance and I’m unable to pay out of pocket. What other recommendations do you have as an alternative? 4) I feel bloated after eating eggs, whether scrambled or hard-boiled and it’s difficult to exercise in the gym after feeling the bloat. Should I take a food sensitivity test?
Heidi – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I would recommend anyone embarking on a program of exercise starts slowly and progresses at their own pace. Exercise can be very healthy, but for people with Hashimoto’s it can create stress. Stress causes our adrenals to pump out extra hormones, and shifts our body from a relaxing, digesting, healing state to a fight or flight state. The body’s energy is shifted from doing “useless” things like growing beautiful hair, metabolizing, making hormones, digesting and repairing itself, and instead, all of the body’s resources are reserved to make cortisol and adrenaline that is pumped through our veins so that we can keep going.
Eventually, we run out of nutrients that are required for proper adrenal function and we get to a state of adrenal fatigue. This is when our body is no longer able to heal itself and we feel drained. Replenishing nutrients and using adaptogens, that balance out the adrenals can be helpful for everyone. I have also created my own supplements brand, which is named Rootcology. Rootcology’s mission is to provide safe and effective supplement solutions for people struggling with autoimmune thyroid conditions. Rootcology’s Adrenal Support contains nutrients and adaptogens that can help your body repair itself. Here are some articles you might find helpful.
You may also find this article useful:
ARE YOUR ADRENALS SABOTAGING YOUR HEALTH?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/are-your-adrenals-sabotaging-your-health
WHICH THYROID MEDICATION IS BEST?
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/which-thyroid-medication-is-best/
TOP 11 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THYROID MEDICATIONS
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/top-11-things-you-need-to-know-about-thyroid-medications/
The gold standard or the most accurate test for uncovering reactive foods and individual food sensitivities is actually the elimination diet. In contrast to other diets that simply exclude common problematic foods, an elimination diet is done to determine what particular food intolerances the individual may have. An elimination period of at least 2-3 months is a good starting place, but you may want to continue if you feel that you still have more healing to do. Then you can try a new food every 4 days and monitor yourself for reactions. Going through an elimination diet will help you figure out your own individual food triggers and your specific response to each trigger food. Here is an article I hope you find interesting!
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/elimination-diet-for-hashimotos
Hi Dr Wentz, I am getting ready to order supplements for your 3rd protocol and am blown away by the cost of the Systemic Enzyme Complex!! Am I correct in thinking that I will go through 180 capsules in 6 days? Reading through your book, it seems most beneficial to continue for up to 3 months. I cannot afford this! So I guess my question is, if I cannot afford to take such a high does for so long, should I not bother investing the money at all? Or could I take a lower dose? I don’t want to invest even $60 if the only way to see results is by spending over $300 on just one supplement! I think it is shameful that in order to see true changes in health, one has to have so much money. I can’t afford the naturopath as they require payment up front and it’s out of pocket. And I can’t afford the supplements as they are outrageously expensive! It is a horrible place to be. I have gone through your first two protocols with little change in my symptoms and my hope was that getting through the third would be most beneficial. But my husband has already had to get a 2nd job and there is still no way I could afford the systemic enzymes. I do appreciate your help and all the work you are doing for the Hashimoto’s cause, but for most people, knowing what has to be done isn’t helpful if it is all out of reach.
Nicole, thank you for reaching out. <3 I understand how hard this is. For questions and concerns about the protocols and supplements please email my team at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be happy to help you.
Hi Izabella,
Thank-you so much for all the information you share with us. I’ve looked in your book but cannot find an answer to this question, can you help? I’m wondering if it’s ok to take Wobenzyme, HCl and your formula for liver/gallbladder? I know the Wobenzyme is for between meals and I hope it’s not destroying my thyroid hormone replacement 🙂 HCl with meals. When would I take your formula if this isn’t too much?
Kay – you are very welcome! <3 For specific questions on how and when to take particular supplements under normal circumstances, please reach out to my team by email, at info@thyroidpharmacist.com and they will be more than happy to help ?
Hi Dr. Wentz,
I was wondering how long should we be taking systemic enzyme for? Is it safe to use this long term?
Thanks!
Regards,
Kim
Kim – thank you for reaching out. I am not able to advise on this without a comprehensive health assessment. I recommend that you discuss this with your personal doctor.
Is there one digestive enzyme pill that covers everything mentioned in this article? I have hashimoto’s and have gained weight that I cant get off. I dont want to have to take a handful of pills to meet all my digestive needs. Thanks
Lisa – thank you for reaching out. If you’re not sure which enzymes you need, I would consult with your doctor to confirm what your needs are. 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/
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/database-recommended-clinicians/
Hello
Great article! My question is
Is there a Supplement that has All
The enzymes and HCL you spoke about or do I buy separate? Thank you
Shannon
Shannon – thank you for reaching out. As a pharmacist I am not a big fan of combination products, and prefer to start supplements one at a time, as there is a potential of reacting to some of the ingredients. You might be interested in my new supplement line Rootcology! 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 rigorous 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.
Hi,
I was reading your download book on Betaine w/Pepsin, low stomach acid… and it said that if you have gastritis not to take it?
I have been diagnosed with gastritis…I have horrible heartburn, Hashimotos, am often nauseous… was thinking I have low stomach acid instead of too much, but why should one NOT take Betaine w/Pepsin, if they have gastritis?
Thanks
Ksg
Kimberly – thank you for reaching out. I am so sorry you are struggling with all of this. <3 Unfortunately, Betaine w/Pepsin is not recommended for those with gastritis. Alternatively, lemon juice and apple cider vinegar can also help to produce more digestive acid. Here is a resource you might find helpful:) Hashimoto’s Protocol Book
thyroidpharmacist.com/protocol
Hi Dr. Izabella. I have allergies to micro crystalline cellulose and in face, any “ose” type ingredient. Ive not found any brand that doesnt contain it and unfortunately the liquid igestive enzymes all use agave [another major sensitivity] .
Unfortunately, I think I am that person that has the cross-reactivity and all foods are now upsetting my system. I’ve never felt desperate before, but right now I do and I’m hoping you might have a suggestion?
ps Im in Canada
Tanya – thank you for reaching out and sharnig your journey. I’m so sorry you are struggling with food sensitivities and allergies. I understand how hard this is. <3 We know that intestinal permeability (aka leaky gut) is present in every case of autoimmunity and often precedes the development of Hashimoto’s. Symptoms of leaky gut may include bloating, diarrhea, constipation, stomach aches, acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. According to the Institute of Functional Medicine, many people develop IBS 5-10 years before an autoimmune diagnosis. I was one of them and didn’t take my gut health as seriously as I should have. Gut problems are often caused by infections like H. pylori, parasites like Blasto, SIBO, an imbalance of bacteria, and enzyme deficiencies or food sensitivities (especially to gluten, dairy, and/or soy). Even stress can be a factor in gut permeability. Here is an article you might find interesting.
6 DIFFERENT ROOT CAUSES
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/6-different-hashimotos-root-causes/
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
CLINICIAN DATABASE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/database-recommended-clinicians/
FIND A FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE CLINICIAN
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Awesome article! I just started taking Bromelain enzyme, and it’s amazing!
Do you recommend taking Betaine with HCL alsongside Bromelain with my meals?
Cheers
Alex – thank you for reaching out! <3 Please understand, I am not able to advise on whether these supplements 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 whose familiar with your health history
.
Thank you very much for all your helpful articles. I’ve had alopecia since i was 2 yo and hashimoto for 5 years now. I am taking my medication but my alopecia is worse than it’s ever been and i am not able to losr any extra weight. I have been taking broad spectrum enzymes and i noticed my hair starting to grow back, managed to start losing weight and my lab results being very good. I thought it was thanks to vitamin supplements and i didnt want to take digestive enzymes for too long so i decided to stop. I can see now that the enzymes were actully the one helping me. I am wondering for how long can someone safely take broad spectrum enzymes ? Also the one i take says once per day but i was wondering if it is safe to take it with every meal?
Tina – thank you for reaching out. I’m so happy to hear you are finding the enzymes helpful. <3 The digestive enzymes should stimulate your body’s own production
of acid, and help you extract nutrients from your food. After some time, you should be able to get off the enzymes as your own body begins to produce enough digestive acid. I do recommend discussing with your practitioner who's familiar with your health history. <3
Dear dr. Wentz, i was trying to find the medical report which was presented at the conference in 2002 in Cannes, France to which you are making reference in the article “A poster presentation from April 21-24, 2002 presented in Cannes, France, found that Wobenzym, a proprietary blend of systemic enzymes, taken at a dose of five capsules, three times per day, showed very promising results in Hashimoto’s.”.
can you please indicate me the ISBN number of the poster/presentation ? or the authors ?
thank you!
Raluca – thank you for following my research! 😉 Here is an article with more information and the references are located at the bottom:
REDUCING THYROID ANTIBODIES WITH WOBENZYM
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/reducing-thyroid-antibodies-wobenzym/
*We know that everyone with Hashimoto’s has some degree of intestinal permeability.*
Where exactly do we know this from? Do you have any research paper to back up this affirmation? Is it about all Hashimoto patients or strictly about those who also have hypothyroidism?
Thank you in advance!
IH – thank you for reaching out. <3 Dr. Alessio Fasano, a physician and researcher uncovered the idea that all autoimmune conditions, Hashimoto’s included, involve some degree of intestinal permeability. Here are a couple articles with more information. You can find my references at the bottom of the article.
IMPORTANCE OF GUT HEALTH
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/importance-gut-health/
FOR THE SKEPTICAL SCIENTISTS LIKE ME
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/for-the-skeptical-scientists-like-me/
Hello Izabella,
I recently had a non-metals toxins test done and one of the recommendations to remedy my health problems is glucuronosyltransferase enzymes. I looked for products that would contain these enzymes but I couldn’t find any.
Can you please, help?
Iolanda – thank you for reaching out. ❤️ I don’t currently have a product that I can recommend. You may want to discuss this with your practitioner who is familiar with your health history.
Hello, Dr. Wentz.
I am wondering why Betaine and Pepsin should not be taken with an H. Pylori infection. You mention it in your book, also, and I’m curious as to why.
Thank you for your help and for all of your rich and wise resources.
Laurie – thank you for reaching out. ❤️ Taking the Betaine and Pepsin can make things worse as the H Pylori tends to neutralize stomach acid. I hope this helps.
Hello Dr. Wentz,
I went through RMA FST IgG Food Sensitivity test and found that I had an elevated IgG antibody level for various foods. Obviously, I can’t eliminate all of them from my diet. Would taking broad spectrum digestive enzymes help me in this situation?
Thank you.
Iris – thank you for reaching out! ❤️ Unfortunately I am not familiar with this test, so I cannot speak on the accuracy of the results. That being said, I always recommend to abstain from the foods that you test sensitive to while you work on the gut, and then reintroduce them once your gut is healed – generally I see that most people can reintroduce these food 3-6 months after healing the gut. Exceptions would be gluten, dairy and soy as some people may need to remove these foods indefinitely. Supplementing with specific enzymes can help with overcoming symptoms of Hashimoto’s (including fatigue, hair loss, nutrient deficiencies, infections, and food sensitivities), as well as reducing thyroid antibodies.
I took digestive Enzymes with Betain religiously for years (along with other multi vitamins and minerals protocal) before I had any noticeable thyroid problems that led to hashimotos. And I have never really had any major stomach/digestion problems. So what has been my problem that led to the Hashimotos?
Laurie, thank you for reaching out. I am so sorry you are struggling. Hashimoto’s is often a combination of food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, adrenal issues, gut issues as well as an impaired ability to get rid of toxins. Any of those things would prevent a person from getting better. Hashimoto’s is very much an individual condition. While there are root cause commonalities, each person will have their own or in some cases, more than one root cause. You will have to start with the simplest modifications, by removing triggers, followed by repairing the other broken systems to restore equilibrium, allowing the body to rebuild itself. You will need to dig down to why the immune system is imbalanced in the first place and this will tell you how you begin to finally feel better, reduce your thyroid antibodies and even take your condition into remission. You will have to create your own health timeline. Look back at your overall history as far back as you can remember. Look for infections, periods of severe stress, the use of medications (especially antibiotics, antacids, and oral contraceptives), accidents, and exposure to toxins. These are events that may have contributed to Hashimoto’s. Once you do, you will know what types of changes you need to implement to make yourself feel better. If you need further support, please check out the list of lab tests inside the “Testing” chapter of my book, Hashimoto’s Root Cause. I also offer a 12-week program, Hashimoto’s Self Management Program. Here are some resources I hope you find helpful as well. ❤️
BUILDING YOUR OWN HEALTH TIMELINE
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/sample-health-timeline/
Hashimoto’s Self-Management Program
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/enroll-in-hashimotos-self-management/
ROOT CAUSE RESET
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/enroll-in-root-cause-reset/
Would be nice if they could make a compound with all 6 enzyme types so that one wouldn’t have to buy and take so many different pills.
Is there any specific enzyme supplement to cover all of these deficiencies? I have Hashimoto and psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. With the medicine I take for that and Hashimoto I always have stomach issues. Looking for something to help the daily stomach issues.
Tracy – thank you for reaching out. Everyone is different, in this article I go through the different enzymes that I have found helpful for myself and my clients as well as my readers. I recommend discussing these different options with your practitioner so that they can help you determine which one’s would be best for you and your health needs.
Is lemon balm okay if someone has hashimotos? There are so many different articles saying to avoid it. I run hyper at times and then back to hypo. I have a multi that has it in it that I’d love to continue to take if it’s still safe. Thanks I’m advance
Shawnah – thank you for reaching out. Lemon balm appears to block hormone receptors, preventing TSH from binding to thyroid tissue and keeping antibodies from attaching to the thyroid. Thus, it helps to calm thyroid symptoms by reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep and appetite, and easing pain. However, in large doses though, lemon balm has been known to cause headaches, painful urination, increased body temperature, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and wheezing. It might lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes as well.
Hi dr. Wants, I took pump inhibitors for many years and I developed a lot of digestive issues with lots of symptoms like acid reflux, belching, gastritis, IBS, hiatus hernia and a mint feel sensation on my esophagus and throat. I have gone to a lot of doctors and no one discovered exactly my problem feel the acid throughly the day but I no longer take the PPI’s I also have Hashimoto. Do you recommend digestive enzymes and if so which kind?
Francine – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey. I’m so sorry you are struggling with all of this. I do not recommend the Betaine with Pepsin for those who have had gastritis. I highly recommend that you work with a functional medicine clinician to be a part of your own health care team. It’s an entire medical specialty dedicated to finding and treating underlying root causes and prevent serious chronic disease rather than treating individual disease symptoms. I believe that everyone needs to find a practitioner that will let them 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/
I am very sick and probably need many of these enzyme formulations. The problem is, I have an esophageal stricture, and can only swallow very small capsules. Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra is the only one I have found that is small enough for me to swallow it. I also have to take it with a little bit of foot, because I can’t swallow capsules with just water. How will I ever get better if I can only swallow very small capsules? I am losing hope.
Sheryl – thank you for following. I’m so sorry you are sick and struggling with all of this. I recommend discussing these enzyme options with your practitioner to help you determine what is right for you and your specific health condition.
Thank you for your articles. For a few years now, I have been going back and re reading them. Diagnosed with Hashimotos about 10 years ago. I was on an antibiotic about 6 months ago and under a lot of stress with a close relative recently passing from pancreatic cancer. I developed loose stools afterwards and attributed it to lack of probiotics in my gut. I tried every probiotic imaginable. (Past tests show I have few of those guys in my gut) Finally saw my doctor, who is mostly holistic. He gave me porcine pancreatic enzymes .I was nervous about taking them. They seem to help. I am reassured reading this article. Could you perhaps do an article about probiotics vs enzymes in the future? I am a bit foggy on how they relate and who does what in out digestive system. Thank you!
Jane, thank you so much for following! I will be happy to add this to my list. I do have an article about probiotics that you might find helpful in the mean time.
Here is a link so you can check it out.
https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/the-four-best-probiotics-for-hashimotos/
Hello Dr. Wentz,
Many thanks for sharing your wealth of information. I would like to take taurine and proteolytic enzymes together before bed. Can this be done without compromising the effect of each one?