Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD

Thyroid Pharmacist

What's Really Going on in Hashimoto's

What’s Really Going On In Hashimoto’s?

Medically reviewed and written by Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP

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Hashimoto’s is more than just hypothyroidism.

It is a complex autoimmune condition that affects multiple systems and processes within the body.

Hashimoto’s develops when an imbalanced immune system leads an attack on the thyroid gland, resulting in hypo- and hyperthyroid symptoms.

Over the course of seven years, I experienced thyroid-related symptoms such as cold intolerance (even when living in Southern California!), acid reflux, and extreme fatigue (I needed 12 hours of sleep to function like my usual self), without knowing what was going on within my body.

Every visit to the doctor was the same: they told me my thyroid levels were normal. It was only years later, when my TSH levels skyrocketed to 8 μIU/mL (back then, the normal levels were 0.4-4.0 μIU/mL), that I was finally referred to an endocrine specialist… and diagnosed with Hashimoto’s.

My experience was not unusual. In certain cases, it can take years before the destruction of the thyroid is reflected in lab results. This is because Hashimoto’s develops through a cascade of events (which we call the “autoimmune cascade”) that take a long time to develop and manifest.

The development of Hashimoto’s arises when root cause triggers such as genetic predispositions, lifestyle predispositions, and other factors interact with one another to promote an inflammatory state. They create the “perfect storm,” or more accurately, perfect circumstances, for autoimmunity to occur.

In this article, I’ll delve into these factors and discuss:

  • The three-legged stool of autoimmunity
  • The genetic and lifestyle triggers associated with Hashimoto’s
  • The six most common root causes of Hashimoto’s
  • How the thyroid gland is affected by the autoimmune cascade
  • Healing Hashimoto’s

Understanding the Thyroid Gland and Thyroid Hormone Production

Before we delve into the development of Hashimoto’s, let’s discuss how the thyroid functions in the body.

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ that is located on the anterior (front) side of the neck. It is connected to our brain through the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis.

The thyroid gland has several functions, including:

  • Regulating metabolism, growth, and development
  • Modulating body temperature
  • Regulating mood (along with the endocrine and nervous systems)

In a healthy individual, the pituitary gland (in the brain) releases thyroid stimulating hormone, or TSH, to signal the thyroid to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones.

Within the small cavities (follicles) of the thyroid, tyrosine (an amino acid that serves as the building block for thyroid hormone production) combines with iodide through a process called iodination, to create several thyroid hormones: T1, T2, T3, T4. (Of these four hormones, only T3 and T4 are biologically active, with T3 being the main biologically active form.)

Other organs also play a role in thyroid hormone production. For instance, the liver converts T4 to T3, and provides most of the T3 in the body.

When there are unusually high levels of T3 and T4, this essentially sends a message to the brain to reduce the production of TSH to help all thyroid hormones stay within their optimal ranges.

However, these processes are disrupted when the autoimmune cascade is triggered and the thyroid is attacked.

The Three-Legged Stool of Autoimmunity

Our bodies are smart and are constantly adapting to help us survive. When the body doesn’t feel safe, it tries to adapt, and this can trigger the development of autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s, to survive. (You can read more about this in my article on the Izabella Wentz Safety Theory.)

So, what might cause the body to feel unsafe enough to launch an attack against its own thyroid? According to Dr. Fasano, a world-renowned gastroenterologist, in order for autoimmunity to be triggered, three factors must be present (this is referred to as the three-legged stool of autoimmunity):

  1. A genetic predisposition
  2. Intestinal permeability/leaky gut
  3. A triggering event or root cause factor

Each of these three “legs” or factors plays its own role in triggering autoimmunity (explained throughout this article). When one of the “legs” is removed, the stool cannot stand and the autoimmune condition goes into remission.

A Genetic Predisposition

Specific genes can make an individual more predisposed or susceptible to developing Hashimoto’s.

The more well known and researched ones are:

  • HLA-DR3, associated with thyroid gland atrophy
  • HLA-DR5, associated with an enlarged thyroid gland

These immune regulatory genes are closely associated with the autoimmune process of Hashimoto’s.

In addition, there are other thyroid-specific genes that play a role in the development of Hashimoto’s. (I wrote this article on genes linked to Hashimoto’s if you would like to learn more.)

Because there is such a strong genetic component in the development of Hashimoto’s, this autoimmune condition is often thought to be hereditary. But, genes alone are not enough to trigger it. If a condition was 100 percent genetic, there would be a concordance rate of 100 percent in identical twins. Because identical twins share the same genes, this means that if one twin had Hashimoto’s, there would be a 100 percent certainty that the other twin would also have Hashimoto’s. However, this is not the case.

The concordance rate for Hashimoto’s disease is 55 percent in identical twins (and 30-35 percent for Graves’, while thyroid antibodies have an 80 percent rate). As identical twins not only share genes, but often environments, the scientist in me wonders if the concordance rates in twins that were separated at birth would be lower.

(Of course, my mama heart doesn’t ever want any twins to be separated at birth, but twin and separated twin studies are always so interesting! :-))

A genetic predisposition can make a person more susceptible to autoimmune conditions. But lifestyle factors (discussed below) can act on genetic predispositions to trigger the autoimmune cascade.

This is another reason why related individuals are both likely to develop thyroid conditions…

When living together, individuals often share similar diet and lifestyle habits (or are exposed to shared environmental triggers such as mold toxicity) — and if these factors are detrimental to thyroid health, both individuals are vulnerable to the autoimmune cascade.

Intestinal Permeability

The second factor that needs to be present, is intestinal permeability, or a leaky gut. Intestinal permeability occurs when “holes” develop in the intestinal barrier, often due to damage caused by:

These holes in the intestinal lining allow for toxins and food particles to “leak” into the bloodstream, and the body labels these molecules as foreign invaders. The body may then launch an attack on these “foreign” molecules, and eventually, autoimmunity can develop.

Triggers of Autoimmunity

Of course, the last “leg” in the three-legged stool of autoimmunity involves a triggering event or root cause factor.

The graphic below depicts how specific triggers can lead to certain clinical manifestations, symptoms, and ultimately, autoimmunity. Let’s walk through the chain of events in this graphic to help you understand what’s really going on with Hashimoto’s.

How Hashimoto's Develops Infographic

These triggers can create a “cascade” that both represents and results in clinical manifestations and symptoms. This is the autoimmune cascade.

Lifestyle Predispositions

In the graphic above, the green boxes represent some of the most common lifestyle factors that can predispose a person to develop Hashimoto’s. Let’s dive into each of them.

Acid Suppressants

Acid suppressants are usually taken when someone has symptoms of acid reflux (potentially due to pathogens or food sensitivities). Acid suppressants can reduce acidity in the small intestine and the stomach, both of which are naturally acidic environments (needed for these organs to function properly). Reducing acidity can lead to low stomach acid, as well as an overgrowth of pathogens in the stomach and small intestine.

Antibiotics/Hormones

Antibiotics are commonly known (and well researched) disruptors of gut flora. Many antibiotics act against a wide spectrum of flora and have the potential to wipe out both “bad” and “good” bacteria (protective flora).

Similarly, hormone-containing medications (such as steroids and oral contraceptives) can create imbalances in the gut flora.

Carbs/Sugars

Meals containing high levels of carbohydrates and/or sugars can lead to abnormal gut flora by encouraging the growth of certain pathogens such as Candida.

Skipping Meals

If high-carb meals are accompanied by irregular meal times, or if meals are often skipped, blood sugar levels may become imbalanced, resulting in blood sugar spikes and crashes. Skipping meals sends “starvation” signals to the body, which will also negatively impact blood sugar signals.

Stress

Stress plays a crucial role in the development of Hashimoto’s. In my survey of over 2000 individuals with Hashimoto’s, 70 percent said they experienced a lot of stress in their life before they started feeling unwell and experiencing thyroid symptoms.

Stress can stem from:

  • Infections
  • Changing jobs
  • Changing homes
  • The death of a loved one
  • A stressful job
  • Having a baby

A high-stress lifestyle or intense event can interact with other lifestyle factors and contribute to the cascade of autoimmunity.

Toxins and Triggers

Toxins and triggers are other lifestyle factors that may trigger the autoimmune cascade.

We can be exposed to toxins through poor air quality, conventional beauty products and procedures, low-quality produce and meats, and exposure to molds. Consistent exposure to toxins can lead to a liver backlog (a buildup of toxins that may be difficult for the liver to clear out), which can create inflammation and immune system imbalances.

Remember how I mentioned that genetic and lifestyle predispositions and triggers create the perfect storm that leads to autoimmunity? This is when that “perfect storm” starts to develop.

These lifestyle predispositions can create an environment that allows for certain root cause factors to develop, which begins the self-perpetuating cycle that is Hashimoto’s.

Clinical Manifestations

If an individual is exposed to or engages in the lifestyle predispositions mentioned above, clinical manifestations (highlighted in the white boxes in the above graphic) may start to unfold.

These clinical manifestations are often overlooked in conventional medicine, as the main treatment for Hashimoto’s is for the person to receive a thyroid hormone prescription. However, many of these manifestations are left when thyroid hormones are given, and can often result in a person feeling sick, even though they are taking medications. I have found that correcting these imbalances one by one, can lead to complete symptom resolution. 🙂

Low Stomach Acid

Low stomach acid can result from consuming acid suppressants, which can then lead to impaired digestion. This is when individuals start to experience gut and digestion-related symptoms such as fat malabsorption, bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea.

Reduced B12 Levels

Reduced B12 levels can result from low stomach acid, or from the use of antibiotics and hormones. This is because both factors can compromise our body’s ability to extract and absorb nutrients — I’ll talk more about impaired digestion later on.

Reduced B12 levels will also contribute to impaired digestion, as this nutrient plays an important role in optimal gut health.

Abnormal Gut Flora

Abnormal gut flora pertains to an imbalance between the protective, “good” bacteria, and the pathogenic, “bad” bacteria in the gut.

When good bacteria are wiped out by antibiotics, hormones, and/or a high-carb diet, an opportunity is made for other pathogens (including yeasts) to overgrow and exert their harmful effects. They may, for instance, release toxins and create holes in the intestinal wall. Abnormal gut flora may eventually lead to impaired digestion.

Blood Sugar Spikes

Blood sugar spikes and imbalances from high-carb meals and/or irregular meal times, may result in a sudden drop in energy, feeling faint, and/or feeling dizzy. When blood sugar levels are constantly fluctuating, the body reads this as chronic stress, which then leads to increased cortisol levels.

Initial Increased Cortisol, Followed by Depleted Steroids

Chronic stress and blood sugar imbalances both lead the body to produce high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which may result in us feeling “wired but tired,” and trigger adrenal fatigue.

The adrenal glands use steroids such as cholesterol (which is involved in the production of hormones such as progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, DHEA, and aldosterone) to make hormones. When cortisol levels are consistently and chronically elevated, the body can impair the production of other hormones in order to meet this demand for elevated cortisol. Eventually, the signaling pathway between the brain and the adrenals can become impaired, and the person will underproduce cortisol.

Inflammation

Inflammation within the body can result from abnormal or imbalanced gut flora, a leaky gut, exposure to toxins, an overloaded immune system, and stress. A pro-inflammatory state is created within the body through the stimulation of cytokines (pro-inflammatory molecules). This pro-inflammatory state can lead to the creation of antibodies, which may eventually launch an attack against the thyroid.

Immune Overload

Inflammation and immune overload go hand-in-hand. The Th1 branch of the immune system creates both the pro-inflammatory state mentioned previously, and cytokines (pro-inflammatory proteins). This results in an overloaded immune system and a heightened immune response. Along with launching an autoimmune attack on the thyroid, an overloaded immune system can overwhelm the adrenal glands, leading to eventual adrenal dysfunction.

More Thyroid Hormones are Produced, but the Body is Still “Stuck in Limbo”

As the body launches an attack on the thyroid gland, the gland will (initially) respond by creating more thyroid hormones to overcompensate for the attack, affecting hormone production.

However, the thyroid hormones will be released into the bloodstream, leading to an individual experiencing a variety of symptoms (including anxiety, as detailed below). The body will then be stuck in limbo (overcompensating by producing more thyroid hormones), yet will still not be able to achieve healthy thyroid function because of the imbalances created by the attack.

Further Manifestations

If the clinical manifestations mentioned above are left unaddressed, they may evolve into further issues (as noted as dark blue boxes in the above graphic).

Impaired Digestion

The overuse of antibiotics, low stomach acid, low B12 levels, and abnormal gut flora, can lead to impaired gut function, which then leads to impaired digestion. Impaired digestion results in the start or worsening of gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea.

Impaired Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion of Nutrients and Other Substances

Impaired digestion can lead to impaired ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of nutrients), and acid reflux, as the digestive tract no longer becomes able to optimally carry out its functions.

This affects how nutrients from food are digested (food molecules start leaking into the bloodstream instead of being absorbed and utilized for physiological processes), and can lead to the development of nutrient deficiencies.

Nutrient deficiencies can lead to a host of other symptoms and can cause us to react to benign substances like foods, medications, personal care products, and supplements. This is because many nutrients are required for proper digestion, metabolism, and excretion of various substances.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a common symptom experienced by people with Hashimoto’s. Many doctors and mental health practitioners often prescribe antidepressants without exploring thyroid health as a potential root cause.

In many cases, anxiety is a result of the autoimmune cascade seen in Hashimoto’s. Anxiety has been linked to elevated antibody levels. It can be caused by nutrient deficiencies and impaired ADME, which can both result in low selenium levels and higher thyroid antibody levels. Anxiety may also be caused by a thyroid that is “stuck in limbo” between hypo- and hyperthyroid symptoms due to intense thyroid hormone fluctuations.

Possible Symptoms Resulting from the Cascade of Autoimmunity

Leaky Gut

Not only does abnormal gut flora (which may result from high-carb meals, the use of antibiotics, etc.) add to impaired digestion, it also makes an individual more susceptible to intestinal permeability. The increased susceptibility of developing intestinal permeability or leaky gut is due to certain pathogens such as Candida having the ability to create holes in the intestinal wall. As mentioned earlier, intestinal permeability is a factor required for autoimmunity to occur.

Food Intolerance(s)

With leaky gut, food molecules can leak out of the gut and into the bloodstream, where they’re not supposed to be. This can lead to food intolerances. Gluten, dairy, egg, and soy intolerances are common in those with Hashimoto’s. However, each individual is different and some individuals may be sensitive to additional foods, particularly those that are frequently consumed. Food intolerances can create inflammation in the gut.

Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a symptom that can arise from impaired digestion. (It can also be a symptom of food sensitivities and/or a sign of low stomach acid.) I experienced acid reflux for nearly three years… it started with a chronic cough, pain, and a burning sensation.

Nutrient Deficiencies

When one’s digestion is impaired, the body isn’t able to absorb and utilize all nutrients needed for optimal thyroid function and overall well-being. One common nutrient deficiency mentioned previously is B12 deficiency. Other nutrients commonly deficient in people with Hashimoto’s include:

As these nutrients are important for healthy thyroid hormone production and many of them act as anti-inflammatory molecules, being nutrient deficient can result in inflammation and contribute to the “stuck in limbo” phase.

Adrenal Dysfunction

Adrenal dysfunction (also known as adrenal fatigue) can result from an overloaded immune system (as explained in the Immune Overload section above), as well as from imbalances in cortisol production and steroid levels. Individuals may experience symptoms such as fatigue (often manifesting as that all too familiar “tired but wired” feeling), poor quality sleep, as well as a poor ability to handle stress. This adrenal dysfunction can directly promote autoimmunity by further stimulating the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

Autoimmune Destruction of the Thyroid

As the body continues the attack on the thyroid (via inflammation and an overloaded immune system), the thyroid gland is slowly destroyed (referred to as “atrophied”). Eventually, the thyroid gland will no longer be able to overcompensate for the attack (that is, it will lose the ability to maintain optimal thyroid hormone production) and will slowly lose its function.

Through this cascade, it becomes apparent how the seemingly random symptoms experienced by those with Hashimoto’s are actually not random at all. Quite the opposite — these symptoms are all interconnected. When these symptoms start to manifest themselves, and once the autoimmune destruction of the thyroid begins, the more classic hypo- and hyperthyroid symptoms experienced by those with Hashimoto’s, will begin to present themselves.

How Triggers Can Encourage an Autoimmune Attack on the Thyroid Gland

As I mentioned earlier, Hashimoto’s is more directly linked to immune system function rather than the thyroid gland itself. When a trigger or root cause factor, such as a toxin or infection, permeates through a leaky gut and attacks the thyroid cells, the thyroid will respond by sending out a stress signal.

This stress signal alerts the immune system, which then attacks the thyroid instead of saving it (as described above). The destruction of the thyroid hormones (along with the gland) affects the negative feedback loop to the brain, resulting in increased TSH. The thyroid gland will try to overcompensate and produce more thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) to keep the levels “normal” even as the gland and the hormones themselves are being destroyed. This is when the individual may start to experience (or already has been experiencing) symptoms of both hypo- and hyperthyroidism.

However, at some point, the thyroid will run out of resources to overcompensate for this destruction, which will lead to a deficiency in thyroid hormones, or hypothyroidism.

Additionally, due to the autoimmune attack and destruction of the thyroid, self-reactive antibodies such as thyroid peroxidase (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) become elevated and contribute to these symptoms.

Many people will finally be diagnosed with Hashimoto’s at this point, but their Hashimoto’s symptoms may be in more advanced stages, as it may have taken years before abnormal thyroid antibody and thyroid hormone levels appear in lab results.

You can learn more about the 5 stages of Hashimoto’s here.

Healing Hashimoto’s

Due to the complexity of this condition, most patients with Hashimoto’s will present with many of the following symptoms:

  • Acid reflux
  • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Anemia
  • Intestinal permeability
  • Food sensitivities
  • Hypoglycemia

These symptoms are in addition to “typical” hypothyroid symptoms like weight gain, cold intolerance, hair loss, fatigue, and constipation (remember, they’re all connected!).

The body becomes stuck in a chronic state of immune system overload, adrenal insufficiency, gut dysbiosis, impaired digestion, inflammation, and thyroid hormone release abnormalities.

This cycle is interconnected and reinforces itself through a positive feedback loop, meaning the cycle is self-sustaining and will continue causing more and more symptoms until an external factor (like a Root Cause Rebel such as yourself!) intervenes and breaks the cycle.

Treating a complex autoimmune condition such as Hashimoto’s requires a detailed and well-thought-out protocol. In my experience, simply adding thyroid medications to the mix does not often result in a full recovery. Additionally, supporting just the thyroid may weaken the adrenals and immune balance, which will, in turn, perpetuate the vicious cycle.

To successfully reverse Hashimoto’s, one has to understand how multiple factors create a vicious cycle that keeps people in an autoimmune state.

I recommend that everyone begin their journey to healing by getting the right diagnosis, adjusting their medication, and using food to heal.

I initially came up with this process map in 2012. Since that time, and after many years of working with clients, I have found that picking low-hanging fruit, chopping branches, and digging for the root cause is the most effective approach. 🙂

By picking the low hanging fruit, we focus on addressing the manifestations that are almost always present in Hashimoto’s and relatively easy to correct with simple, yet targeted changes.

These include:

  • Elimination diets to remove the inflammatory foods (most often gluten, dairy, and soy).
  • Testing for three common nutrient deficiencies: vitamin D, vitamin B12, and ferritin (the iron storage protein), and addressing them accordingly.
  • Adding nutrients that support proper absorption, distribution/digestion, metabolism and elimination (ADME), and thyroid function, such as magnesium, selenium, thiamine, and zinc.
  • Removing the obvious things that interfere with proper digestion (like acid-suppressing medications), and adding digestive support, if appropriate.
  • Focusing on eating a diet that keeps your blood sugar balanced.

To chop off the branches, I have found that supporting three body systems that are affected in Hashimoto’s with targeted protocols, can make a world of a difference. I call these protocols my “Fundamental Protocols”, and they focus on supporting the liver, addressing adrenal health, and reducing inflammation in the gut.

Picking the low-hanging fruit and chopping the branches produces incredible results for most people. My clients and readers report vanishing symptoms, labs that improve, and most importantly, feeling like themselves again, after doing so.

In some cases, further work needs to happen to find and address the root cause(s) that are contributing to the condition, such as infections, traumatic stress, and toxins. You can dive deeper into these steps and learn how to implement them to heal your own root causes in my book, Hashimoto’s Protocol.

Takeaway

Hashimoto’s is more than just hypothyroidism; it is a complex condition that arises when certain genetic predispositions, as well as leaky gut and one or more root cause factors, trigger an autoimmune cascade.

Once started, the cascade becomes a vicious cycle that is self-sustaining unless an external factor intervenes to break the cycle. The first step to breaking this vicious cycle is identifying and eliminating the triggers that perpetuate this cycle, using a Root Cause approach. Because this process is complex, I wrote my book Hashimoto’s: The Root Cause to help my Root Cause Rebels identify and eliminate their own unique triggers (because everyone is different :-)).

You can also check out my About Hashimoto’s page for an overview of the protocols I recommend for healing Hashimoto’s.

Although the journey to reversing Hashimoto’s can be a long one, it is possible (and rewarding)! I wholeheartedly believe you can heal your Hashimoto’s and thrive as your healthiest self.

P.S. You can also download a free Thyroid Diet Guide, 10 thyroid-friendly recipes, and the Nutrient Depletions and Digestion chapter of my first book for free, by signing up for my weekly newsletter. You will also receive occasional updates about new research, resources, giveaways, and helpful information.

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

References

  1. Kalra S, Unnikrishnan AG, Sahay R. The hypoglycemic side of hypothyroidism. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2014;18(1):1-3. doi:10.4103/2230-8210.126517
  2. Martin AM, Sun EW, Rogers GB, Keating DJ. The Influence of the Gut Microbiome on Host Metabolism Through the Regulation of Gut Hormone Release. Front Physiol. 2019;10:428. Published 2019 Apr 16. doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00428
  3. How does the thyroid gland work? InformedHealth.org. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279388/. Published April 19, 2018. Accessed June 30, 2021.
  4. Hari Kumar KV, Modi KD. Twins and endocrinology. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2014;18(Suppl 1):S48-S52. doi:10.4103/2230-8210.145074
  5. Khalili H. Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Oral Contraceptives and Menopausal Hormone Therapy: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Drug Saf. 2016;39(3):193-197. doi:10.1007/s40264-015-0372-y

Note: Originally published in February 2015, this article has been revised and updated for accuracy and thoroughness.

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

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

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Comments

  3. I have been bounced from doctor to doctor for the past 13 years trying to be diagnosed! I went from a 3 to a maternity size in only 1 month, not being able to eat much because I was always sick to my stomache, like morning sickness. I have had 2 hernias repaired and have got 2 more, type 2 diabetes that comes and goes , ear infections that never really go away , and depression along with mood swings! I had a ct scan done on my shoulder and it showed an abnormality with my thyroid, but because the lab work comes back in range the doctor says my thyroid is fine ! I look like I am pregnant and I can’t seem to loose weight no matter what I do ! I really would like to hear more about this Hashimoto’s disease and what I can do about it ! Thanks so much !
    Reply

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  4. Rhonda I too have hashi’s & also have problems with recurring ear Infections. your comment Is the only other one I’ve seen that mentioned ear Infections. but It wouldn’t surprise If there was a connection but I don’t know, so I’ll have to research
    Reply

  5. I have had so many mis-diagnoses with medical “doctors” throughout my 58 years that I tend to avoid them whenever possible! I have not been “diagnosed” with anything but have had ear infections off an on throughout my entire life. I discovered my thyroid was enlarged during a massage a little over a month ago. In addition to a brown recluse spider bite in 2008 which nearly killed me, I had meningitis in my 30s and was sick with tonsillitis most of my childhood and had a terrible diet up until I discovered how bad food from the grocery store shelves were for me. Keeping a sugar-gluten-lactose free “clean diet” has helped me reduce my weight and, since discovering the swollen thyroid, I have begun taking iodine supplements along with a homeopathic for thyroid. My thyroid has shrunk enough so I can swallow normally and I am looking forward to reading more about others’ symptoms and healing stories. It is good to share information so we can all heal! Thank you for this blog!
    Reply

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  6. Rhonda and Lisa, ladies I have ear infections one right after the other, They say my thyroid in stable right now, however I have gained 80lbs in 3 months I have now had to have 2 different surgeries and will be under going another one here in the next few weeks, I have to have the merina placed in me because my hormones can not be controlled any other way, I have a rare form of hashi’s that causes your skin to pigmenitate and then it falls off its really weird, ab pains all the times reflux like there is no tomorrow, always having my body checked by 8 different drs. it truly bothers me and that is just the short version of my life. An I try to live a very healthy life style from eating to exercising and nothing has worked.
    Reply

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

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

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  7. Yes…Celiac may lower thyroid and allow ear infections as it makes the immune system go down. My son found that sugar/gluten/ice cream/smoke in air caused the most ear infections.
    An Alternative doctor or Naturopath that works with a doctor so they can give perscriptions may help. Thyro-gold on internet is also available. Celiac may cause low thyroid and Type 2 Diabetes and ear infections and low immune system. Gluten makes antibodies to the thyroid. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye…oats may act like gluten. GMO corn/soy/canola oil may also hurt.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten can be in nuts not in the shell/meat basting/lotions/pans/air/cutting boards/certified gluten free food may have 20 ppm of gluten and also GMO in it/make up/medicines/vitamins may have hidden gluten.
    The Celiac diet may help thyroid/depression/moods and the rest you list. This diet may help more nutrients to absorb…then cells are made right to work right and are higher in oxygen which may help depression go away fast. Hernias maybe due to low B vitamins which are water soluble and rinse out of the body. 5000mcg of biotin and B complex help me. Vit B12 methylcobalamin may help stress/sleep/depression and much more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  8. My daughter had recurrent sinus and ear infections from two weeks after she was born. At about the age of 6 we were told she had asthma. At 14 we found out that she never had asthma and had been misdiagnosed all her life because her symptoms were not that of a normal person with acid reflux. Yes, the acid in her stomach would come up all the way into her sinuses and ear canals causing infections and the acid would go back down into her lungs. You might want to start with your stomach to cure your ears. I know Dr. Wentz is probably going to cringe but my daughter had a gastric bypass not for her weight but for the acid issue and her sinuses and ears are normal now. The steroids they put her on for asthma were the only thing that saved her lungs
    Reply

  9. To Carol: A person can have both asthma and acid reflux due to Celiac. Mg and eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO..taking vitamins/good oils, LDN and detoxing may help. HCl and enzymes with meals may help acid reflux along with the Celiac diet. Steroids may hurt the liver. Inhalers may not work as well after awhile. Milk thistle/alpha lipoic acid, Vit C, glutathione, organic sulfur, Now brand- Detox support may help the liver. Celiac may lower nutrients absorbed. A gastric bypass may lower nutrients absorbed. If she is still eating gluten she may not be absorbing much from food/supplements. My friend in now in the hospital once a month after a gastric bypass. She still eats gluten (wheat/barley/rye…oats). She says gluten doesn’t hurt her, but she is dying due to gluten. They cut out her stomach due to ulcers instead of telling her to eat no gluten. Best wishes.
    Reply

  11. I keep ear infections! My thyroid deficiency was detected after I got angry at myself for being tired all the time, scratching my arms bloody and after combing my hair I’d have enough hair on the floor to make a baby wig!
    Reply

  12. They have to check your thyroid antibody. With Hashimotos, your TSH and T3 and T4 will stay within range pretty much until your thyroid dies out.
    Reply

  13. Antibodies aren’t always present, sadly. I had to get an ultrasound to prove I was right, because my antibodies where high but not off the charts. I was tested as I was starting to feel better. My sister had no antibodies at all, but her RA was flared.
    Reply

  15. To the person who wrote about the constant ear infection and not knowing if it was related– I was affected also. Off and on I’ve had ear issues, and in the past year on two separate occasions, I’ve woke up totally deaf in my left ear. It was very weird since my right ear was the one that was in so much pain. I have permanent hearing loss in that ear now.
    Reply

  16. When I went Hypo I too swelled up several sizes (6-10) and yes, that frontal belly swelling, preggo look as well…even my feet needed bigger shoes. I also had nausea every day and could not eat, my skin was copper colored, I slept like 16 hours / day and had deep Inner Ear Pain 24/7 which has turned into pretty bad Tinnitus and won’t go away. I had lots more symptoms, but just want to suggest making sure besides that useless TSH test you ask for T3 and T4 (reverse and totals). Also, get the antibody tests done: TPO, TSI, TG, TRAB. My TSH was barely elevated 5.6’ish and I felt like I was on deaths door and I was the kind of person who always had tons of energy and was busy all the time. This disease has shot me down and I have yet to get back up, even after 2.5 yrs of treatment. It took 5 years of being extremely ill for someone to bother to do the right tests and treat me. Best of Luck to You.
    Reply

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  17. I have hash’s. Been on Armour Thyroid and gluten free 2 1/2 years. I am eating healthy and taking supplements (dessicated liver, coconut oil, flax seed oil, probiotic, Fermented Cod Liver Oil) I eat a strict gluten free and nearly grain free diet. I also have limited sugar intake and eliminted soy. I am had a baby 15 months ago and most of the time look like I am 5 months pregnant. Lost….
    Reply

  18. dear peaches
    thank you so much for that invaluable info about the anti-body tests you advise.i would love to hear more. am only aware of TPO. WHAT ABOUT IGg and IgA ? those are food sensitivities? not the same bag?
    Reply

  19. HI, Tinnitus in me is due to low thyroid an also Cu/Zn being low. I don’t mind it. When it is loud…then I know my circulation and medicine is good. When I don’t hear anything medicine has worn off. Alternative doctors may help fast for thyroid. Ask at a Health food store for a good Alternative doctor. Celiac diet…no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO…vitamins/good oils, LDN , detoxing may help. Zn/Se. enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 change to T3 in thyroid medicine. Se may lower antibodies along with no gluten and hidden gluten. Paleo diet is no grains. Sugar may slow mitochondria. Coconut oil in some people may help speed up mitochondria. I can’t have coconut oil. It clogs my blood vessels. Soy is GMO usually and can block thyroid. Leaky gut due to gluten may cause food allergies. See my above comments. Best wishes.
    Reply

    • Lara- When I was first diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, I felt so alone. My doctor didn’t think it was a big deal, and none of my friends or co-workers had it. It wasn’t until I started to research online that I found others who were going through the same thing.

      A couple of years after my diagnosis, I found Hashimoto’s 411, a closed Facebook group run by Alice Berry McDonnell. This group is amazing! It is comprised of an army of highly motivated, smart, supportive women and men (now 45,000+ strong), and each of them sharing ideas of what worked for them, things they were planning to try, and offering support to one another. The comfort I received from knowing that there were others going through the same challenges as I, was enormous.

      https://www.facebook.com/groups/hashimotos411/

      Ask questions. Post your thoughts. Scan the files. It is an absolutely amazing resource. Best of all it’s kept private from spammers.

      Reply

  21. HI, Go to an Alternative doctor or Naturopath that works with a doctor so they can give perscriptions. Thyro-gold on internet is also available. Celiac may cause low thyroid and Type 2 Diabetes and ear infections and low immune system. Gluten makes antibodies to the thyroid. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye…oats may act like gluten. GMO corn/soy/canola oil may also hurt.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten can be in nuts not in the shell/meat basting/lotions/pans/air/cutting boards/certified gluten free food may have 20 ppm of gluten and also GMO in it/make up/medicines/vitamins may have hidden gluten.
    The Celiac diet may help thyroid/depression/moods and the rest you list. This diet may help more nutrients to absorb…then cells are made right to work right and are higher in oxygen which may help depression go away fast. Hernias maybe due to low B vitamins which are water soluble and rinse out of the body. 5000mcg of biotin and B complex help me. Vit B12 methylcobalamin may help stress/sleep/depression and much more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  22. Hi Rhonda! I’m sorry about everything you are going through!! Hashimoto’s is a condition where you can be impacted by both low thyroid function which can cause one set of symptoms as well as autoimmunity which causes another set up symptoms, so mood disorders, IBS, weight gain are common complaints. The best screening test for Hashimoto’s is an antibody test, actually two of them ; Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb)- one or both can be elevated in Hashi’s. See if you can find a physician with a comprehensive approach that is willing to spend time with you. I think physicians trained in functional medicine are a really great bunch and really work with you to help you find out why you are not well. Always ask for copies of your lab reports. Don’t give up! You deserve to feel better!
    Reply

  25. Hi I have hashis ..tpo over 9200 and other antibodies over 3000
    roller coaster doc calls me a rapid cycler so no meds 7plus years … I recently have gone cold turkey gluten free 2 weeks ago due to them saying something is wrong w gallbladder noone believes me that something is upseting the gallbladder and the thyroid … thyroid also have 4 nodules … lots of other symptoms … in AZ and I NEED a doc tht will help thyroid not test after test lije a guineapig
    Reply

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  26. my 17 yr old was diagnosed after a year of headaches, fatigue, and hives that just appear for no reason, and leave after awhile…on no meds have lost 15-20 lbs, gluten,soy and dairy free for 2 months and still no better
    Reply

  27. Barbara, I’m sorry to hear about your son’s struggles… Hives, fatigue and headaches have been connected with Hashimoto’s. Hives in particular are associated with autoimmune flares when thyroid antibodies are high…Thyroid medications can be prescribed in the case of subclinical hypothyroidism if your son is having symptoms..I suggest you follow up with an endocrinologist. The meds can help.
    Food intolerances can trigger many of these symptoms as well so I think you are on the right path with changing his diet. I would have your doc recheck his antibodies in 3 months of the dietary changes. It takes that long to see an effect.
    Unfortunately, not everyone will get better with the same interventions.
    I was actually, gluten, dairy, soy free for over a year without an improvement in my Hashi’s antibodies. I had to continue to dig at my root cause…among other things I took on an elimination diet and found out that I was sensitive to eggs and a few other things I was having daily.
    I will be posting about additional interventions in the near future. You can sign up for my Facebook or blog to receive updates.
    Hope that helps
    http://www.thyroidrootcause.org/1/post/2013/06/got-hashimotos-you-may-want-to-reconsider-milk.html
    Reply

  28. I have hashimotos. I found that gluten free was not.enough. had to go grain ( rice barley oats corn etc) dairy egg nightshade soy legumes nuts and pepper free. When I stick to that all my random pains go away including chronic.back pain ive had for 10 years. Everyones reactions are different. Dairy makes me sneeze grains makes everything swell(like circulatory system does work as well) and the other cause arthritis in my joint. But its all just the hashimotos.
    Reply

    • Adria- Here is The Thyroid Bundle Cookbook which contains over 100 delicious gluten, dairy and soy-free recipes from me and my favorite thyroid and nutrition experts – available here:

      THYROID BUNDLE FREE COOKBOOK
      http://thyroidbundle.com/

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

      ROOT CAUSE RECIPE PORTAL
      http://rootcauserecipes.com/

      Reply

  30. I’m glad I read your reply on foods you had to give up. I’m going to give that a try. thank you, Cynthia
    Reply

  31. Hi, Certified gluten free food may have 20ppm of gluten in them. Nuts not in the shell/meat basting/some spices/restaurants even if they think they are gluten free…any food in a box/bag/label…lotions/make up etc. Some cities have Celiac support groups which may help. LDN may help block hidden gluten…see Alternative doctor for that. Best wishes.
    Reply

  32. Hi, LDN may block hidden gluten Certified gluten free may have 20 ppm of gluten. Gluten maybe hidden in most food in a box/bag/label and in nuts not in a shell/meat basting/some spices/medicine/make up/shampoo/lotion etc. See the internet for hidden source of gluten. Any gluten free food at a restaurant maybe contaminated with gluten. I eat no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO and take vitamins/good oils, LDN, detox. LDN is like a miracle..but mostly Alternative doctors give it. LDN helps lower allergic reaction and prevents new allergies as it heals leaky gut…heals the gut lining. The whole family tree may need this diet. Cutting boards/pans/toasters etc may have gluten in them. Best wishes.
    Reply

  33. Have been diagnosed with hashimotos since Nov. 2011. Since then, I have taken selenium daily, 200mcg, along with ashwaghanda and my antibodies dropped from 287 to 150 in a relatively quick time. The problem is, the antibodies have increased to 170 lately, so am not sure why. I am on one half grain armour, which keeps the tsh at 2.5, more or less. The endocrinologists I have visited are not much help. All they want to do is prescribe synthroid, and not to worry about antibodies, since once you have them, they stay forever. One even said I had a chemical imbalance in the brain when I described my symptoms, so I am not too fond of the medical profession and their lack of true knowledge about thyroid conditions. I am quite sure that a proper regimen of nutrition and the triggers you mention can alleviate the problems. thanks, I ordered the book.
    Reply

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

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

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

      Reply

  34. Hi, Synthroid may have gluten in it. 2.5 is too high. An Alternative doctor may help fast with Thyroid medicine dose instead of endocrinologists. Hidden gluten may hurt. See my other comments. LDN may block hidden gluten…get from Alternative doctor. Best wishes.
    Reply

  35. Hi Izabella
    I was ill for about 20 years after a severe illness aged 9. Finally about 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with Hashimotos, and put on Levothyroxin. Surprise, surprise I felt no better. But the doctors decided I was well.
    About 7 years ago, I met Dr Barry Peatfield, and had treatment for adrenal fatigue. This made a dramatic improvement to my health. My body temperature and energy levels are still low, and recently I am experiencing increased memory loss, but basically in comparison to 10 years ago I am a whole new girl.
    Anyway, last summer I decided it was stupid to carry on taking T4 given that I couldn’t see it was making the slightest bit of difference. After my next blood test (we get tested regularly here in the UK) I was pulled in by the GP as my TSH was over 100. I decided to go back to the medication simply because he couldn’t/ wouldn’t offer anything else.
    Over the last year I have been thinking about this a lot, and it’s great to stumble across a pharmacist who is thinking creatively and constructively. My basic theory is this.
    The T4 goes into the system.
    The pituitary notices the T4 and reduces TSH production.
    These 2 occurrences are entirely unrelated to any usage of the T4 in the cells.
    It is therefore possible to input T4 to one body which is very ready and able to use it, and therefore to see improvement, and to put it into another body, which has no ability whatsoever to use it, and therefore if anything to see worsening of symptoms (because the body is no longer producing TSH and therefore not producing any thyroid hormones it is able to produce).
    So all the TSH test is doing is testing whether you get an output from an input; a bit like whether urine changes colour when taking B vitamins, rather than giving any indication at all as to whether the input is useful.
    The TSH test should therefore be banned as not only useless, but also smoke and mirrors which distort and confuse.
    I’d be really interested to hear what you think of this and if you agree that there’s any possibility of me being on to something, whether you have any idea what to do with it!
    thanks so much
    Kathy Whitaker
    Reply

  36. Kathy,
    You are absolutely right. TSH is a pituitary hormone, and not a true indicator of what is happening at the cell level with the active thyroid hormone. Synthroid contains T4, a pro-hormone, that is not very active in the body. It needs to be converted to T3. This conversion takes place in the gut and liver. Gut function and liver function are often compromised in those in Hashimoto’s. The adrenals come into play as well, when they are compromised, you make reverse T3, which is an inactive version of T3 that takes us space, so that’s why it helped to get your adrenals better. Combination T3/T4 meds, and addressing your adrenals, gut and liver is the way to go. I have 4 chapters relevant to this information in the book; chapter on medications, chapter on the gut, on the liver/detoxification and on the adrenals.
    Reply

  37. Amen! I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s in 1985…my internist has me take a compounded thyroid hormone (t3/t4), similar to Thyrolar…I feel a million times better! With calorie restriction and Sensa, I’ve lost about 65 lbs in two years.
    Reply

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

      http://rootcauserecipes.com/

      Reply

  39. Hi, Yes..TSH means nothing. See all new books on thyroid that mention that. Synthroid has gluten in it and is only T4. T4 needs to change to T3 for it to give energy. Zn/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic taken far from stomach acid and refrigerate it in storage may help T4 go to T3. Eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO…taking vitamins/good oil,LDN to help block hidden gluten and detoxing help me. UK is low sunlight…far from equator which makes Celiac. 5000IU of Vit D3/walking in the sunlight and more helps me. 2000mg of fish oil/Mg citrate/Vit C, zinc, Nature’s plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind and more help me Best wishes.
    Reply

  41. Hi, Yes I read/heard on Thyroid talks that Synthroid may have gluten in the filler. I don’t know about the generic version. I do know I was getting hidden gluten maybe from my vitamins or medicine so I needed LDN to block the hidden gluten to be ok.
    Reply

  42. My daughter had a mono like virus in 7th grade. She was diagnosed at the time with hashimotos. She has had h pylori, Amelia, vit d deficiency, depression, heavy over flowing periods. She is now 18. She is on levothyroxine 112mcg, prilosec. Claritin and is now on lamictal and trazadone. I would like to help her but doctors around here just say her levels are normal but she is still tired and cannot lose weight but doesn’t eat because her stomach is in knots from just a little food. We live in southwest Virginia. Can you give me some specifics on how to get her healthier?
    Reply

    • Becky- Without going into too much detail, the first of the crucial defining moments in my disease development may have started during my undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois. Due to the communal living setting of dormitories (and less than stellar hygiene habits of most college students) I had recurrent strep throat infections and even contracted mononucleosis, a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), which is implicated in triggering many autoimmune conditions. I received multiple courses of antibiotics as well as flu shots (which may be associated with EBV infections), and started birth control for menstrual cramps.

      It is my belief that this combination had a profound impact on my gut flora, and thus my immune system.

      Epstein-Barr is a virus that causes mononucleosis (commonly called “Mono”) , a debilitating viral infection that is common among college students, and is also known as the “kissing disease,” because individuals are exposed to the virus through saliva of those who are infected.

      Specific immune cells known as CD8+ T cells are needed to fight off the Epstein-Barr virus, however, some individuals may have a low baseline level of these types of immune cells. (CD8+ T cells decrease with age, are lower in women, and in the presence of low vitamin D intake). When these fighter cells are low, the Epstein-Barr virus may take up residence in our organs (such as the thyroid) and essentially hijack the organ to help the virus hide and multiply.

      The timing of infection may also matter as well, for example, children in developing countries usually contract the Epstein-Barr Virus when they are under the age of 10. This usually results in an asymptomatic infection—one that does not cause them symptoms. In contrast, in developed countries, where individuals are not usually exposed to the virus until they are in high school or college, the infection is symptomatic in 50% of the older kids affected. This is because by the time we reach college age, CD8+ T cells, the ones that fight EBV, have declined by threefold compared with the number of cells we had in childhood.

      Additionally, animal fat and broths, soups and stews support the body’s ability to suppress the viruses. Monolaurin/lauric acid, one of the components of coconut oil, has been found to be active against the Epstein-Barr virus. Replication of many viruses including Epstein-Barr is inhibited by glycyrrhizic acid, an active component of licorice root. Quercetin, Co-Enzyme Q10, N-Acetylcysteine, and glutathione were also reported to be helpful in chronic fatigue syndrome because of their anti-viral properties.

      EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS AND HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/epstein-barr-virus-and-hashimotos

      Reply

  43. Get her off the Prilosec! Those mess up all the natural acids in your stomach! They about killed me! Find another doctor! Clean her diet, look at her environment, we found mold in our home.
    Reply

  44. HI, I agree…Acid reflux medicine lowers stomach acid and then food doesn’t digest and Vit B12 intrinsic factor may not work. Taking HCl and enzymes with meals may help and eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO and taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, and detoxing. I take 5000IU of Vit D3. Hair tests show good mineral and heavy metal levels. Gluten may lower nutrients/minerals absorbed in intestines. Li orotate may help. Allergies maybe due to leaky gut due to gluten. See an Alternative doctor who does natural help and gives the right thyroid dose. Heavy periods maybe due to low thyroid. Amour thyroid instead of synthroid may help. Zn/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help convert T4 to T3.
    Eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO…taking vitamins/good oil,LDN to help block hidden gluten and detoxing help me. UK is low sunlight…far from equator which makes Celiac. 5000IU of Vit D3/walking in the sunlight and more helps me. 2000mg of fish oil/Mg citrate/Vit C, zinc, Nature’s plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind and more help me. Best wishes.
    Reply

  45. I have Hashimoto’s and most of the symptoms that go with it. I am at my wits end to find a doctor that will do more than look at my blood work, change my synthroid a bit, and send me on my way. How do I find a doctor near me that will look at the whole picture? I say I have heartburn I get told to take tums-that does not help. I say I am tired (very) and I get told to rest more. I say I try to exercise and I get so exhausted I lose part of my day and I get told I am doing too much (I walk with two 3yr olds who don’t go all that fast). I am weary and sad and she gives me prozac. I need help but have no idea of how to get it.
    Reply

  46. Hi, Prozac has Fluorine which may block thyroid and cause more depression/tired. Synthroid may not work unless you have Zn/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic (take when stomach acid if low and refrigerate). Heart burn/acid reflux is due to low stomach acid and then people burp up acid. Taking HCl and enzymes with meals may help.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten maybe hidden in nuts not in the shell/meat basting/some spices or lotions/pans/cutting boards/Certified gluten free food may have 20 ppm and any food in a box/bag etc may be contaminated with gluten. A Chinese restaurant cooks special for me…veg/rice/tea/mushrooms. The Woks my have gluten/MSG in them so no meat there. Other restaurants may say they offer gluten free, but it maybe contaminated. I eat mostly veg/rice/tea/low sugar fruit/organic potatoes/raw walnuts (open shells to avoid gluten)/antibiotic organic eggs and more. Gluten can cause low thyroid. Best wishes.
    Reply

  47. I am asking myself the same questions. I have been taking synthroid since 2008 for hypothyroidism. My PCP says I don’t need to see a specialist and that she can monitor my thyroid levels and meds. I have not been given any other solutions to my issues except nasal sprays and acid reflux Meds that have not worked for my acid reflux. I am tired all the time and plan any social outing around my sleep. I have no energy to exercise and have slowly gained weight up to 230 pounds. I am depressed and have been given anti depressants which have not helped. I decided to see an endocrinologist which took my blood and never called me back to help me. I am at a loss of what to do. I live in The Chicago area and am looking for someone who can help me. What kind of Doctor do I see? From what I’ve been reading, many endocrinologists don’t help. I also don’t know about being able to see other types of homeopathic or natural specialists due to insurance coverage. I am at a loss and truly am desperate to feel better. I don’t know if I have Hashimotos disease nor has anyone ever mentioned it to have me tested. What I do know is that nothing seems to help and I feel terrible most of the time.
    Reply

  48. I have been on synthroid for 12 years ad have little sleep, migraines, yeast infections, hair loss and list goes on…. Have recently read tht Armoyr can work better is this correct? Also how can I subscribe to your blog!?
    Reply

  49. Hi, Amour thyroid has 80% T4 and 20% T3. Synthroid may have gluten in it and has only T4. T4 needs to change to T3 to give energy. Zn/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic at night may help convert T4 to T3. You maybe on too high a dose of T4 which is not converting. Yeast can be due to eating carbs and mercury in teeth fillings. Replacing mercury with resin fillings may help. Oil of oregano and later dairy free probiotic may help yeast and less sugar/starch. Hair loss can be due to eating gluten (wheat/barley/rye…oats may act like gluten). Synthroid has gluten in it which may hurt thyroid.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Best wishes.
    Reply

  50. Is it possible to get off synthetic thyroid hormone medication after 6years. I tried once with kinesology but became hypo and stopped menstruating so am left doubting it is possible.
    Reply

    • Steph- 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 🙂

      HASHIMOTO’S SELF CARE, GETTING AND STAYING IN REMISSION
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-self-care

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

      Reply

  52. Hi, Synthroid is T4 only which may not help unless you have Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic to help convert it to T3. Amour thyroid has some T3 already, but still needs the Zn etc to convert the rest. Synthroid has gluten in it..
    People need thyroid medicine for life usually.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten maybe in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices/boxed food/restaurants even if they say gluten free and certified gluten free food has 20ppm of gluten…..lotion/make up and more may have hidden gluten.
    Asian diet…meat/veg/rice etc but made at home with no soy etc is what I do. Best wishes.
    Reply

    • Andrea- 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 BOOK
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

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

      Reply

  54. Hi, Cancer and thyroid issues can be due to eating gluten. Gluten may make antibodies to all glands of the brain/body. Amour thyroid may help. Synthroid may have gluten. Antibodies to thyroid may happen if they left a piece of thyroid tissue there.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. This diet may prevent cancer and other brain/body health issues. Hidden gluten may happen…nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices and more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  55. Enjoyed reading the comments re Hashimotos Diagnosed 2012 have many symtoms Get blood work done every 3 months not on any meds so far. Dr staying on top of it
    Reply

  56. My doctor recommends I come in every 6 weeks for bloodwork and i’m medication free, though I still have struggle with symptoms.
    Reply

    • Tracy- 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 🙂

      HASHIMOTO’S SELF CARE, GETTING AND STAYING IN REMISSION
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/hashimotos-self-care

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

      Reply

  57. Hi, Gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid. No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. This diet may prevent cancer and other brain/body health issues. Hidden gluten may happen…nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices and more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  59. Fillers in Synthroid :corn starch, confectioners sugar, lactose, magnesium stearate, povidone, talc and color additives. Too bad…don’t want any of these. Best wishes.
    Reply

  60. I had the radioactive idoine treatment and now take synthroid. This happened 12 years agO. Ive never beent he same. I now have a leaky gut is this all related ?
    Reply

    • Sue- 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 BOOK
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

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

      Reply

  61. Yes Sue I believe it most certainly is. Why anyone would subject another person intentionally to radioactive anything is beyond me. Synthetic throid. Though it shoots the messenger of bad news so to speak ie the symptoms it dose nothing to address the cause of what is going on and as you have experienced first hand will create other problems. Any disease is the bodies way of finding a balance treat the cause and the symptoms will go away of their own accord. I would suggest you find your self a good wholistic practitioner. Homoeopath, Theta healer or the like and reclaim you natural health.
    Reply

  62. Hi, Radiation may affect all of body/brain. Gluten may cause high or low thyroid and leaky gut. Zn/Se/dairy free probiotic/enough iron may help T4 convert to T3…but Synthroid may have gluten in it. Amour thyroid may help, but again…still need to some of it to T3.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. This diet may prevent cancer and other brain/body health issues. Hidden gluten may happen…nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices and more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  63. Growth Hormone are widely varied as is obvious from the partial list previously discussed. This is because all kinds of Human Growth Hormone (supplements, growth hormone spray, homeopathic HCG formula, and more) are founded on the natural Human Growth Hormone or HCG found in the body.
    Reply

  65. dear Dr Wentz
    my name is Manesa . I am 20 years old and from india. I have been diagnosed with hype thyroidism since 2007 and taking presently thyronom 50mg daily.
    recently I read the web page of hope for Hashimotos and the author prescribed your book which I bought and read.
    it is really amazing to read your life journey and how you have overcome the Hashimottos.
    during 2011 nov when I checked my anti bodies my tpo antibodies was some 1800 and the endoctronist just asked my to continue with thyronorm.
    I have been having problems with my periods and hair loss .
    my father is a psoriatic patient for over 30 years but has been able to bring it under control with diet modifications and with no medicine.
    after reading your book my father could connect his conditions with my conditions and told me to avoid gluten. milk and sugar.
    I should say I have been sincere for about 95% of the time. I also went for acupuncture for a bout a three month- once a week.
    when I last tested my TPO anti bodies it was less than 50 and my Tg(Ab) is ls around 20.
    my free T3 is 2.72.
    I have started taking selenium 200 mcg and vitamin E 400 mcg from 1st aug.
    I take my thronorm 50 mcg before break fast and my selenium and vit E after lunch.
    your book recommends selenium and vit E to be taken in empty stomach.
    kindly tell me if it is ok to take thyroid medications and supplements.
    if so how and when to take the thyroid medication and when to take the supplement.
    I have ordered zinc. cu also from US and once I get them I will start taking 37 mg of Zn and 3 mg of Cu.
    I also want to know if I have to add any more supplements.
    my father is in US -Orlando right now and will be there till 6th aug.
    is it possible if he can talk to you over phone and if so kindly let me know a time window when he can speak with you.
    thanks
    regards
    Manes
    Reply

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

      HACKING HASHIMOTOS
      http://hackinghashimotos.com/

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

      Lastly, here’s the link to the book in case you have not read it already.

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

      Reply

  66. Hi, T4 converts to T3 with zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic. Thyroid medicine…I take in the morning when I get up and wait 2 hours to eat…then take supplements with food. The probiotic..may take before food or late at night far from stomach acid.
    Yes…father/you/whole family tree may not be able to eat gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil and more. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten. Hidden gluten can be in medicine and meat basting/nuts not in the shell/some spices/boxed food/lotion/make up etc.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Best wishes.
    Reply

  67. Ugh the struggles! I have been on Armour Thyroid for the last 4 years. At first, I felt a great amount of relief, and now, the pill alone has not seemed to touch my symptoms. I am still (and for the last several years) constipated… ALL the time. Mood swings, weight gain (after diet and working out!), always tired, never happy. For the last 2 months went GF, but unfortunately nothing seems to be changing. Never was actually diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, after reading your blog, I’m pretty sure this is what I am experiencing! I am going to ask my doctor to do a TPOAb and TgAb on me, shall I ask her to do anything else? What about my Iodine levels? Shall I get them evaluated? I just wanna LIVE again! I’m so down & depressed. I am NOT liking myself lately! Please help!!!!!! Thanks!
    Reply

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

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

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  68. Be careful using armour thyroid. I was on it for years and dutifully taking my daily dose but became so depressed and psychotic that I wound up in the ER. My TSH was 23 and my T4 0.5. Apparently armour has changed it’s binding agents which some people can’t absorb.
    Reply

  69. HI, Amour can be blocked out by Ca and new formula has Ca? GMO corn in it? I can’t cut it …it makes a powder. Psychotic is low B vitamins. Depression is due to low oxygen in the brain. Hidden gluten may cause this.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. This diet may prevent cancer and other brain/body health issues. Hidden gluten may happen…nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices and more.
    Reply

  70. Hi Stacey. I feel so badly for you as I have hashimotos for 14 years now and I still feel like you do now. Its been a long rough road but I have accepted myself this way. Been to specialists and my dr. Routinely…..hopefully they will find a miracle drug. I’ve been on synthroid, thyroxine, and armor presently. I felt pretty good when I first started armor but now its back to the same old me. Best wishes dear. Don’t give up! Keep searching for answers.
    Reply

  71. Alternative doctor may help fast… LDN may help block hidden gluten. Synthroid has gluten in it. Eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO…taking vitamins/good oils, LDN…
    Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, dairy free probiotic, HCl and enzymes with meals, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind…no hidden gluten in nuts/meat basting/some spices/boxed food or certified gluten free food which may have 20 ppm of gluten etc may help. Nature’s plus- Source of life multiple may help and more. T4 need to convert to T3 with zinc/Se/enough iron with meals anddiary free probiotic taken far from stomach acid. Best wishes.
    Reply

  72. HI, Amour thyroid still needs zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic to convert it from T4 to T3. Coconut oil may also help speed up cells. Constipation/tired etc may be due to too low a dose of Amour and still making antibodies to the thyroid due to hidden gluten. LDN may help block hidden gluten.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is from Alternative doctor usually.
    Nuts not in the shell/meat basting/some spices/certified gluten free food may have 20 ppm of food…food in a box or restaurant..lotions etc may have hidden gluten. Best wishes.
    Reply

  73. Just wanted to chime in as a Hashimoto’s sufferer and tell you all to please google Top Thyroid Docs and only see a practitioner that gets good reviews on the list. I wasted many years. It’s worth the drive or even to fly somewhere to get the help you will need. I am relocating my business from NC to FL and this is one of the reasons we chose Florida! Good luck everyone!
    Reply

  76. Hi, Alternative doctors may help. Talk to a health food store to locate one. LDN is awesome help from them and great thyroid help. LDN helps block hidden gluten…is like a miracle. Gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid. Best wishes.
    Reply

  77. Shasha..what is LDN and where do I purchase? Are you a medical professional? You seem to know so much about thyroid. I’ve been reading these posts for an hour. I think I’ve found my issue. Thanks…
    Reply

  78. I have hashimotos and my Dr. only gave me one antibody test. He said it was in the thousands. But I have never had it checked again. I also never had a thyroid ultrasound. I am hypothyroid and I feel so bd even though my levels are “normal”. Been like this for 6 years. Should I have had another antibody test and ultrasound?
    Reply

  79. Sounds like you need a new doctor who will do a thorough Endocrine workup on you. Which would include all the related antibody testing, ultrasound, and all hormone levels.
    Reply

  80. HI, Find an Alternative doctor..ask at Health food store that will help with thyroid. Any antibodies are not good…hurt thyroid more. Gluten makes antibodies. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye…oats and hidden gluten in nuts/meat basting/spices/boxed food and certified gluten free food may have 20ppm of gluten in it…lotions etc. Synthroid may have gluten in it. Air/pans/restaurants even if they say they are gluten free may have hidden gluten.
    Synthroid is T4 only which may not help unless you have Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic to help convert it to T3. Amour thyroid has some T3 already, but still needs the Zn etc to convert the rest. Synthroid has gluten in it..
    People need thyroid medicine for life usually.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Best wishes.
    Reply

  81. Are people with Hashimoto more prone to chemical sensitivities? I have gotten very sensitive after home remodeling, mold and pesticides. I can’t seem to get straightened out. Any suggestions?
    Reply

  82. Hi, A bath in Epsom salt/baking soda…soak or taking organic sulfur or Now brand- Detox Support or 600mg of cilantro or zeolites, Vit C, chorella, glutathione and more may help detox you. See Mercola articles. Gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid and gluten may hurt the liver so it doesn’t detox well. LDN may help block out hidden gluten, but eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO is still needed. LDN may help the liver detox better. LDN is from an Alternative doctor. Hidden gluten may hurt in nuts/meat basting/ some spices/lotions/premade food even if it says certified gluten free. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help convert T4 to T3 and may help in detoxing also. I do EDTA/DMPS IV chelations with an Alternative doctor to remove heavy metals. Hair tests show good minerals and heavy metals. Best wishes.
    Reply

  83. Thyroglobulin Antibody *514.8 IU/mL 0-115(Negative)
    Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies*333.7 IU/mL 0 – 34
    Above are my results from a private blood test, when taken to the doctors he said he would do his own test, when I went for results from his tests he told me they were in range but would not tell me the results, he also told me I no longer needed my b12 injections as I’m now level 159 (last test was 1,500) I had to fight to stay on iron tablets with a ferritin level of 9, your blog is very interesting and I shall purchase your book for further reading
    Reply

    • Sandra- 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. 🙂

      Reply

  84. Hi, You can get “gentle iron”…Iron bisglycinate from Amazon.com…taken with food/Vit C it may help. Too much iron is not good. Losing iron..maybe bleeding due to gluten. Vit B12 methylcobalamin shots are awesome. They also sell cream/spray in mouth/under the tongue kind. Chorella/spirulina analogs may make blood test for Vit B12 look high, but these don’t work like animal kind of Vit B12. There is also Intrinsic factor and Vit B12methyl and folate in supplement on Amazon.com which helps, but the shot is the best. You should be able to see your test results. Find another doctor…Alternative doctor…ask at Health food store for recommendations. Any antibodies to thyroid are not good…then thyroid gets worse. Hidden gluten may hurt. LDN may block hidden gluten…get from Alternative doctor.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Celiac people may need thyroid and Vit B12 shots for life..not stop. Best wishes.
    Reply

  85. I have Hashimoto’s for 6 years. This winter I had tachycardia, insomnia, high pulls but normal pressure. And my doctor said it is not Hashimoto’s. She never checked my ATPO. I started searching on the internet. I found Dr.Haskell video’s. I’ve done lab test for ATPO (10 000) and ATg (900) and started with selenium 200mg and vitamin C 500iu, gluten free, diary free and salt (iodine) free. After 3 mounts my results were- ATPO- 800, Atg- 3000. I found “Hope for Hashimoto” blog and changed vitamin C with vitamin E (400IU). After one mount Lab test of ATPO is 600 (but it was done one week after my ovarian cyst had bloone) I’m on my one. I have many questions but most important is when to start taking Lugol’s solution ( I read some reports that conect ovarian (wаther) cyst with Iodine- low iodine is responsible for the appearance of the cysts (http://curezone.com/faq/q.asp?a=13,281,2962&q=608-). Dr. Haskell recommendation is staring with 2 drops of Lugol’s solution when ATPO is close to normal value. What is Your opinion considering my condition with ovarian cyst and risk of new ones? I’m from Macedonia (in Europe) and my country is not in the list when I’m trying to bay Your e-book, so I did not read it yet. Thank you in advance for Your answer.
    Reply

  86. HI, Iodine/iodine may help cysts, but Se may help lower antibodies and eating 100% no gluten or hidden gluten.No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Zn/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 convert to T3. LDN may help block hidden gluten. Best wishes.
    Reply

  87. I had prolonged and continuous menstrual bleeding and endokrinologist gave me Jazz( birt control pills) first 3 mounts/pause then 6 mounts/pause and last 10 mounts/pause. They had no efect, when on pause on teking the pills I imediatly had prolonged and continuous menstrual bleeding. I faund ginekologist, she sead Jazz was mastece and for my condition with Hashimoto and 36 years old, I should be taking Progesteron. They fоund the cyst also. After five mounts of therapy with Progesteron the cyst had blown. I wrote this, cause may be of importance too. I also forgot to say in previous post that I remove my amalgam dental fillings and I have taken Nano Zeolit (for detoxification because I also had Pb levels high in my blood).
    Reply

  88. Hi,Iodine/iodide with Se may help cysts. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Zeolites may help detox or organic sulfur or 600mg of cilantro late at night with no food in body, but lots of good water. Best wishes.
    Reply

  89. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism in 1985 and tx with Synthoid. A few years later after still having a multitude of the symptoms listed above, I saw an endocrinologist who ran the specialized titers. They came back positive for Hashimoto’s. I also suffer from a goiter. I’ve been on Synthoid since ’85. Dosasge per labs. But it wasn’t until they added the combination Cytomel that I started to feel a little better. Ive had different Drs over the years. Some who don’t believe in using Cytomel. I can only go by how I feel. I’m not on it currently as labs always dictate meds in most drs offices. I’ve also tried to go on the generic Synthoid, as now it has been approved. After 3 months, I went back to Brand and paid the extra $$. That’s how much I do feel the difference. Financially, I would love to be able to save the extra money but I just don’t feel as well. Recently I’ve gone gluten free. As much as possible anyway. I also use unsweetened Almond milk. This has helped with the abdominal distention. However, I still suffer from migraines, fatigue, frequent infections, brittle hair, nails ect. For something that has been around for so long, there is very little education offered. Hashimotos is NOT the same as typical hypothroid. And I believe if there was more education given at diagnosis,ie nutrition, fatigue management, infection risks, we would all feel better and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Unfortunately, most of the education obtained is through self exploration on the internet. This CAN BE DANGEROUS! As we are not all alike. And levels need to be monitored. I’ve also have always seen to avoid black licorice while on Synthoid written on my drug info sheet when picking up my meds. However, I’ve never been able to get a reason why from any Dr or pharmacist.
    Would love more info on diet, how often scans of your goiter should be taken, and more natural health maintenance. It’s so confusing when so many products or OTC items say DO NOT TAKE if Thyroid disease. Even certain teas are contraindicated. But no one tells you why or what will happen. Will it render your Synthoid meds inactive? Will it cause a Thyroid crisis? Or can it simply be eaten at a different time.
    I know I’ve mentioned quite I bit and don’t know how much you can comment on. But any would be a service not only to me but others inflicted.
    There is much education on diagnosis with cholesterol issues & diabetes. Yet with Hashimotos we are just handed a Rx. And time for next lab appt.
    Thanks for listening
    Reply

  90. HI, Synthroid may have gluten in it. Amour thyroid/Synthroid..generic kind helps me. It needs to be 100% gluten free if you want it to work. Any hidden gluten may hurt. Most thyroid problems…97% are due to antibodies to the thyroid…Hashimotos. Licorice may affect adrenals and should not be used long term. Iodine/iodide may stop goiter along with Se/Zn/enough iron/dairy free probiotic taken far from stomach acid. People on the Celiac diet may not need OTC help. Tea may have F that may block thyroid. I drink some tea when I go to the Chinese restaurant. Tea healed my teeth due to too much acid eating cranberries. Correct dose of thyroid medicine…then cholesterol maybe fine. Diabetes can be due to gluten hurting all glands..pancreas/thyroid etc.
    o gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help cysts. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  91. My Thyro Pero antibodies are 500 so I am assuming I have Hashi’s. the NP that ran the labs was hesitant to say that is what it is for sure. I am now on T425 mcg/T3 5 mcg compounded and that is pretty much it. My other thyroid levels are and always have been “withing range” but in January my TSH was going up (over 4.0), now down below 1 since starting the meds. I don’t have all the symptoms, never been constipated and don’t get sick with viruses. I have great immunity. I have been developing mild symptoms of the following: high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, fasting blood sugar within range but getting close to high, mild occasional reflux in evening/night, past periods of hair loss, mild weight gain coming in spurts so over time from 2008 to 2013 gained 28 pounds on a small tiny person. I have lost about 9 lbs since starting meds in March (back to 2 lbs below where I was a year ago). Sleep problems and minor occasional fatigue, but since being on the meds that is rare. I am most concerned about the associated health problems. I am not a fan of restrictive diets and love to cook. I do not eat fast food and most meals are mostly made from scratch, and we have a large organic garden. My cortisol levels and pattern are normal. B12 normal. Vitamin D is low and I know I need to get that up. I have borderline osteoporosis and am 5 yrs postmenopausal. I am considering seeing an endocrinologist and I have heard good things about our local one. I do not think the NP is checking me often enough for just starting out on the meds. Any suggestions welcome.
    Reply

  92. HI, Any antibodies are not good…they destroy the thyroid. Gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO may be hurting you…can cause all you mention. Gluten may hurt intestines so nutrients don’t absorb…then Osteoporosis. I also need bioidentical hormones…estriol/progesterone/testosterone. Alternative doctors…ask at Health food store may help more than endocrinologist who go by numbers which may not mean much.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help cysts. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  93. I am a male, and I was diagnosed with Hoshimoto in my mid 30s, and I am now 52. Based on what I know now, symptoms showed up in my late teens, early 20s. There is very little information about men and Hoshimoto, and I was hoping that someone can point me to where I could find some information, or if this site will also provide information for men as well. Any guidance is much appreciated.
    John
    Reply

  94. Hi John. My husband is 35 and has been on a prescription med for 8 years for Hashimoto disease (165mcg levothroxine). He felt better for a few years on them but for the past few years his symptoms have all come back. About 6 months ago we decided to part ways with his endocrin dr. He was no longer treating his symptoms, just going by his blood work and telling him he’s fine- he does not feel fine!
    We have done a lot of research to get him off of pharmaceuticals and onto a natural desiccated thyroid. He has also removed gluten from his diet and is working on removing diary. He has ok days and some really tired days still but no worse than when on Synthroids. A website with a lot of info is Stop The Thyroid Madness.com. Also Dr. Tom O’Bryan is a gluten free genius and has you tube videos and an online website with tons of info and lab tests you can order to see which foods are causing elevated antibodies. Check out his free online videos- so much helpful information!
    It is a slow process and takes a lot of trial and error. The best I can say is listen to your body when adding supplements and try to find a good holistic Dr. in your area. If you can find one that does bio-feedback that would be awesome. Some supplements we are trying are selenium, magnesium, and digestive enzymes. Best of luck in your health journey! -Meg
    Reply

  95. HI, No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  96. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto over 20 years ago. My hair has thinned I have constant ear ache, meds get rid of it but it comes right back. I have no control over my weight, mood swings etc. But I have another problem Cutaneous Mastocytosis, I was diagnosed 2 years ago and I have spots head to toe. My cells are piling up on each other creating spots and boy do they itch like poison ivy, I try not to scratch but can’t help it. The doctor also told me it starts in my intestions like Hash’s could it be all related some how? Also I am allergic to so many things, the doctor thinks I have Lupus but so far test are neg. I have osteopenia. I am going to start a gluten free diet but I can’t quit dairy products that’s a lot of what I eat along with fruit and salads. Any sugestions. Thanks Viki
    Reply

  97. Very interesting. I have auto immune hypothyroidism snd got worse on T4. Went onto T3 only which eas better. Had to eliminate all cereals, wheat, eggs, dairy and last of all caffeine which causes breathlessness, raised heart rate etc. Did this 5 years ago and got my life back, although I miss a lot of favourite foods that I had previously been able to enjoy. I suffer with fungal ear infections and thrush and BV, but these can be controlled quite well.
    Reply

  98. HI, Synthroid may have gluten it. T3 only maybe short lived. I do generic Synthroid and Amour…take both. Oil of oregano and later dairy free probiotic may help yeast and eating low sugar/starch and getting mercury fillings out may help and replace with resin fillings.
    All you mention can be due to Celiac. Tests may not work to diagnose Celiac. I take Osteoprocare instead of dairy. I eat meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more. Organic vegetables etc may help. Gluten can hurt intestines and cause leaky gut and food allergies and weak bones since less nutrients are absorbing in intestines.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  99. Dr. W: Just got your book and notice you mentioned LDN, I’ve been researching this idea for Hashimoto’s but am just on day 15 of G-F elimination. I was wondering how long you took this?
    Reply

  100. HI, LDN is awesome since even my vitamins may have hidden gluten and Synthroid. Hidden gluten is in many places. LDN is like a miracle.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

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

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

      But most doctors will never tell people that they have Hashimoto’s, or that their own immune system is attacking their thyroid. People are told that their “thyroid is sluggish”, and that these things happen with age and “Just take this pill, you’ll be fine.” Hashimoto’s is a complicated condition with many layers that need to be unraveled. While conventional medicine only looks at each body system as a separate category, and is only concerned with the thyroid’s ability to produce thyroid hormone, Hashimoto’s is more than just hypothyroidism. I wanted to pass along these articles that I wrote. I hope they help 🙂

      WHERE DO I START WITH HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/where-do-i-start-with-hashimotos/

      OVERCOMING HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/overcoming-hashimotos-in-the-new-year/

      Reply

  102. HI, Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  103. Hi I am a 29yr old female and I’m hoping that I can know, once and for all, if what I have is indeed Hashimoto’s due to my fluctuating test results and due to me feeling bad despite taking T4.
    January blood test showed I had elevated Anti-TPO antibodies at 41 but these dropped a couple of months later and were tested to be found in negative range. Thyroid function tests recently done now show my TSH is now 5.01 (0.2-4.2) but my FT4 is up at 19.3! (10-22) FT3 looks good too at 5.2 (3.1-6.8-) This is all so confusing and my doctors don’t seem to be giving me a straight answer.
    Reply

  104. HI, It all depends on what you eat. Gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO may hurt and hidden gluten which is in most things except pure food. Certified gluten free may have 20ppm of gluten.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain/thyroid health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  105. I don’t as yet have full blown thyroid disfunction. I have “low T-3” and several symptoms, such as low body temperature and fatigue. I’ve been able to cure my constipation problems using a paleo diet along the lines of the Perfect Health Diet, and Dr. BG’s protocol for curing SIBO. Anyway, what is interesting with me, is I’m not just cold when others aren’t; I’m also too warm when others aren’t. I seem to have a narrow range where I’m comfortable. Is this typical of thyroid issues?
    Thanks!
    Reply

    • Debbie- People with Hashimoto’s may experience BOTH hypothyroid and hyperthyroid symptoms because as the thyroid cells are destroyed, stored hormones are released into the circulation causing a toxic level of thyroid hormone in the body, also known as thyrotoxicosis or Hashitoxicosis. Eventually, the stored thyroid may become depleted and due to thyroid cell damage, the person is no longer able to produce enough hormones. At this time, hypothyroidism develops.

      THE MANY FACES OF HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/the-many-faces-of-hashimotos/

      Reply

  106. Hi, It all depends on what you eat…gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO may hurt and hidden gluten. Constipation/tired/cold etc are signs of low thyroid. Mg citrat and eating Chia may help constipation and raw walnuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze), but thyroid will get worse if you aren’t 100% gluten free. Gluten may hurt hormones also which may change temperature of the body.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  107. Izabella, I was diagnosed with Hashitoxicois/Hashimoto over 14 years ago during that time the doctor recommended Radioactive Iodine (RAI) for enlarged thyroid. I have been on Synthroid since that time. Much of what I have read on Autoimmune disease hasn’t addressed what can be done after RAI since I am now hypo. I have noticed some changes in the way I feel by implementing your recommendations in your book ~ medicine with selenium and dietary changes but I cannot find a doctor that will treat the autoimmune disease since the thyroid was destroyed. My resources are limited and finding a physician in WV that will work with me…….
    Reply

  108. HI, Ask at a Health food store for the name of an Alternative doctor. Synthroid has gluten in it.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  109. Hi Izabella, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s by mistake 2 years ago (my antibodies were (and still are) high: both anti-PTO and anti-Tg, TSH is in range). I say by mistake because I went to a bio-resonance scan and I was told there is something with the thyroid and adrenal glands. So I went to endocrinology and the doctor suggested to take the antibodies and TSH tests. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s asymptomatic as I felt fine (at least that’s the fine I know), but reading through the symptoms I have some of them: constipation, brain fog, dry skin, cold extremities, irregular periods and a lot of pain/cramps on periods. I also have low ferritin levels (close to the low level).
    I got the same response: “there’s nothing we can do, it’s an autoimmune disorder that will destroy the thyroid, check the TSH twice a year and when it’s out of the range, come to me and I’ll prescribe artificial hormones. Once a year do an echo and avoid iodine (salt with iodine and nuts).”
    I started reading your book and I found a lot of very useful information.
    The first part of your timeline caught my attention immediately (Cernobil related). I was born in March 31, 1986 in the west part of Romania, Europe. When I was a month or so, I was given iodine because of the Cernobil disaster.
    In 2010-2011 I found out I had Helicobater-Pylori and only after taking a treatment with antibiotics in 2012 (about 3 grames/per day – 10 days), I got rid of it.
    I had mercury dental fillings for 10-15 years and I replaced them at the beginning of this year.
    All these can be part of the root cause and I’m sure I’ll find out more while I read more on Hashimoto.
    When I saw the Cernobil connection, I just wanted to write something and to thank you for what you do and for providing all this information to people. I’m sure I’ll find out more and hopefully I’ll find a functional doctor that can help me with this journey.
    Reply

  110. HI, Ask at a Health food store for a name of an Alternative doctor that can help you. Gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid and destroy it. Not eating 100% no gluten and hidden gluten may stop the destruction. Iodine/iodide with Se may not hurt, but tiny amount. Mercury may block thyroid. You may need to detox with zeolites or 600mg of cilantro late at night…far from food with lots of water or EDTA/DMPS IV chelations with an Alternative doctor.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  111. Hi I’m maresa im 27 yes OK. I was diagnosed with hashimotos disease 5yrs. Ago. I recently have been dealing racing heartbeat and it woke me up during the night the other night I was scared and felt light headed and was trembling.. Thought it might have been anxiety but I don’t know for sure. I’ve had heart palpitations as well. My Dr did a 24 hr holter monitor test on me an my results were normal..I also have a b12 diffciency and I cannot stand the heat.. Does anyone else have this problem?
    Reply

  112. Maresa – Yes – I had irregular heartbeat, exhaustion, sleeping problems, numb fingers and toes, low pulse and low blow pressure, thinning hair, constipation. I went to three doctors, and found one who did a complete blood panel. My TSH was normal, but T3 and reverse T3 were abnormal. I had low iron, low B12 and D. Now on Armour, B12 shots, Vit. D, codlver oil, C, and probiotics. I take selenium and Flax Oil as well. I am eating low carb/high fat. I eat no grains. It has taken 6 months, and I finally feel about 80% better. I look forward to exercising again, which I have been unable to do, because of exhaustion. Find an integrative doctor, research diet and supplements, treat your gut and adrenals, eliminate triggers, relax, get a complete blood panel done, and advocate for your self
    Reply

  113. HI, Low oxygen in the heart may make the heart race and panic attacks in the brain. Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind may raise oxygen and taking Amour thyroid. Celiac people have low Vit B12 also since gluten wrecks the stomach lining that makes intrinsic factor to carry Vit B12 into the intestines. Gluten may lower nutrients absorbed in intestines…then cells are not made right to work right. You may also be low in HCl/enzymes with meals.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

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

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

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

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

      Reply

  115. HI, Hyperthyroid may change to hypo…low thyroid after glands burn out. The same help may help thyroid.. Celiac diet/vitamins/good oils, LDN, detoxing. Ca may help block excess hormone.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  116. My mother and I both have hashi’s. Both of us are having issues right now. Our thyroids seen to be getting function back so we are getting lab work done every few weeks. We just found out that this is very common. So now our meds have to be ajusted every few weeks.
    My thoughts and prayers for all who suffer from Hashimoto’s.
    Reply

  117. Hi, The Celiac diet may stop further destruction of thyroid.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  118. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism several years ago.They removed most all of thyroid due to cancer or so they thought.I stay tired All the time,no energy.I have gained So much weight the past several years that it’s just rediculous.
    I don’t over eat(mostly):) I do try to watch my
    calorie intake/exercise.I take 200 mcg of
    Levothroxin every morning,which is doing nothing for me.Could I possibly have has humorous?Idk about anything anymore! Ear infections,tiredness,hair loss,weight gain,
    constipation etc.The list just keeps growing!!
    What do I need to do besides find Another doctor! Thanks
    Reply

    • Nikki- 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 BOOK
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

      Reply

  119. HI, Celiac maybe causing all the symptoms. Tests may not work to diagnose Celiac. Untreated Celiac…thyroid and much more goes downhill. An Alternative doctor may help…ask at Health food store.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  120. I have been deal without this for several years. I had half removed due to nodules. I gained 60 lbs with a year of having surgery and its been almost 3 years and I still have pregnant belly look. I’m so tired I could fall over from exhaustion. I have insomnia, mood swings, the sweats, the chills, irregular periods, and super dry skin. I am taking 200mcg of synthroid but no relief at all. I am so frustrated because every time I have my blood drawn to have it checked it has only been below a 5 okay maybe a couple times. No changes made we will check again in 6 months. I have had it and am at the end of my rope. I’m miserable. Not sure what needs to be done next. Maybe my whole thyroid should have been removed because it’s not working at all it appears.
    Reply

    • Kelly- 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 BOOK
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

      Reply

  121. Hi, Nodules maybe due to low iodine/iodide…but may also need Se with it so no antibodies are made to the thyroid. Synthroid may have gluten. Amour thyroid may help more.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  122. They removed my thyroid 5 years ago nothing has improved still very sick now treatments for lupus,Sjogren’s disease.
    Reply

    • Tessie- 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 BOOK
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

      Reply

  123. HI, Celiac may have caused thyroid issue and the other health issues. Untreated Celiac can destroy brain/body. Tests may not work to diagnose Celiac.
    Gluten may hurt all glands …thyroid/pituitary/pancreas etc..
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  124. I heard that having heart burn and acid reflux doesn’t mean that you have too much acid but instead not enough acid and to add Apple cider vinegar to you diet instead of anti acid meds?
    Reply

  125. HI, Yes…Acid reflux is due to low stomach acid. You don’t want to neutralize it even more since then food will not digest and Vit B12 intrinsic factor may not work to carry Vit B12 into the intestines. Apple cider vinegar or HCl and enzymes with meals may help, but eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO may stop acid reflux and other health issues.
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  126. I have some of all that has been mentioned. I take synthetic, 50. Still have problems. Very interesting reading from all.
    Reply

  127. HI, Synthroid may have gluten in it…hurt thyroid. Eating no gluten may stop antibodies to the thyroid.
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  128. I am just finishing a residency in integrative oncology but will be going back to general practice soon and need to brush up on thyroid. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, your site will be a great resource for me (and my future patients!).
    Reply

  129. HI, This book and Suzy Cohen thyroid book are both great. TSH may not help since gluten may antibodies to the pituitary also. Getting free T4 and free T3 normal may help them feel good. Gluten may make antibodies to the thyroid.
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  130. I have been diagnosed with hashis for over 7 yrs. Now. My levels are all normal except for my tpo which is at 550. This is with many supplements. The only (pharms) I take are testosterone. I am extremely fatigued, underweight, And having anxiety with rapid heart beat. My cortisol levels are low but in range (3.2 am) I have tried the thyroid drugs Several times but feel worse on them. I believe it is my adrenals now but don’t know where to go from here any suggestions ??? I take iron ( was very low), an adrenal supplement, selenium, coconut oil, mag., probiotics, vit c, a multi., And D3. I stopped gluten for 5 mos. but my tpo only dropped 40 points ( so not worth it) I have a wonderful dr. Who will take any test I want. Please tell me if I am missing something. Thank you.
    Reply

    • Virginia – Most conventional physicians use the TSH test to determine if one has a thyroid disorder and to dose thyroid medications.

      However, this test can often times be misleading, as levels of circulating hormones may fluctuate at different times, such as in Hashimoto’s, the person affected may fluctuate between highs and lows.

      Additionally, when scientists first set the “normal” ranges of TSH for healthy individuals, they inadvertently included elderly patients and others with compromised thyroid function in the calculations leading to an overly lax reference range.

      This resulted in people with underactive thyroid hormones being told that their thyroid tests were “normal,” based on this skewed reference range. Most people with Hashimoto’s will experience weight gain, and so of course that’s what gets the most focus, but some people actually experience weight loss, or they can’t keep their weight on.

      This is especially problematic when a person has multiple food sensitivities and needs to adhere to an autoimmune diet that restricts foods.

      Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

      1) Get a calorie counting app like My Fitness Pal on your phone, to help you keep track of your daily calories. Eating real food can be more filling than eating simple carbohydrates and you may not be getting enough calories. Use the app to figure out your target weight and the number of calories per day you need to get there.

      2) Supplement after dinner with The Root Cause Building Smoothie: 1 avocado (300 calories), 1 cup coconut milk (150 calories), 1 banana (100 calories), 2 egg yolks (100 calories, if tolerated), 1 scoop of protein of beef/pea protein(60 calories) – You can also add cooked sweet potatoes if you need more carbs.

      3) Get tested for gut infections. Gut infections can prevent the digestion and assimilation of foods, leaving you underweight and malnourished. The 401H test or GI Effects test are my go to tests.

      4) Get your adrenals tested with an adrenal saliva tests. In some, stressed adrenals may actually lead to poor absorption of foods.

      5) Be sure that you are not over medicated.

      6) Work on reducing your antibodies with a selenium supplement

      7) Stress reduction, when we’re stressed we don’t digest.

      8) Add coconut oil in your beverages, this can add extra calories in your day

      9) Avoid caffeine, it can make you less hungry and stress out your adrenals.

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

      Reply

  131. HI, You maybe getting hidden gluten so antibodies are not dropping. If a person doesn’t stop gluten (wheat/barley/rye..oats)..then brain/body may all be destroyed slowly..and all glands. Synthroid may have hidden gluten in the filler. Any antibodies means they thyroid is still getting hurt and a higher dose of thyroid medicine maybe needed.
    This diet may stop body/brain health issues fast.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO….taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3, Vit C, zinc, fish oil, Mg citrate, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind, MTHF and more may help. LDN is awesome..helps to block hidden gluten. An Alternative doctor may help with LDN 3mg. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. I eat Asian style..meat/veg/rice/nuts (open shells to avoid hidden gluten and freeze) and more.
    Hidden gluten may be in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices…boxed food/certified gluten free food/restaurants/pans/air/lotions/Synthroid etc.
    Iodine/iodide with Se may help…but not too much. Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 go to T3. Amour thyroid may help more. Best wishes.
    Reply

  135. Hi, Mono? Strep? People need more than just thyroid medicine. Celiac may cause thyroid issues and other health issues. Eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO…taking vitamins/good oils, LDN, Vit D3 5000IU, Vit C, zinc, fish oil 2000mg, Mg citrate, Nature’s plus- Source of life may help the immune system. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats. GMO maybe corn/soy/canola oil. HCl and enyzmes with meals, dairy free probiotic at night far from stomach acid, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind may help and MTHF.
    Amour thyroid right dose may help the immune system. Gluten can make antibodies to the thyroid. Hidden gluten in nuts not in shell/meat basting/some spices/lotions/medicine/air/cutting boards/food in a box/certified gluten free food may have 20 ppm of gluten may lower the immune system. LDN may help block hidden gluten. Synthroid may have gluten in it’s filler.
    Zinc/Se/enough iron/dairy free probiotic may help T4 in thyroid medicine to change to T3 and give energy to cells and help. Best wishes.
    Reply

  136. I am asking myself the same questions. I have been taking synthroid since 2008 for hypothyroidism. My PCP says I don’t need to see a specialist and that she can monitor my thyroid levels and meds. I have not been given any other solutions to my issues except nasal sprays and acid reflux Meds that have not worked for my acid reflux. I am tired all the time and plan any social outing around my sleep. I have no energy to exercise and have slowly gained weight up to 230 pounds. I am depressed and have been given anti depressants which have not helped. I decided to see an endocrinologist which took my blood and never called me back to help me. I am at a loss of what to do. I live in The Chicago area and am looking for someone who can help me. What kind of Doctor do I see? From what I’ve been reading, many endocrinologists don’t help. I also don’t know about being able to see other types of homeopathic or natural specialists due to insurance coverage. I am at a loss and truly am desperate to feel better. I don’t know if I have Hashimotos disease nor has anyone ever mentioned it to have me tested. What I do know is that nothing seems to help and I feel terrible most of the time. Can somebody help me? Does anyone know of a person in my area that I can see?
    Reply

  137. Hi, Acid reflux can be due to Celiac/low stomach acid. Taking Betaine HCl (stomach acid) and Now brand- Super enzymes with meals may help and eating 100% no gluten (wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin). Eating no gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO (maybe corn/soy/canola oil) and taking vitamins/good oils, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, LDN, Vit C, Vit D3 5000IU, zinc, fish oil 2000mg, Mg citrate, dairy free probiotic at night, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind/Intrinsic factor kind, MTHF and more helps me.
    Gluten may cause low thyroid in 97% of people as it makes antibodies to it and causes low nutrients absorbed in intestines. Synthroid may have gluten in it’s filler and is T4 only. To convert T4 to T3 that cells can use…zinc/Se/dairy free probiotic/enough iron may help tired feeling. When I took zinc I felt 5X more energy. Gentle iron (Iron bisglycinate) may cause less constipation. Hair tests show good mineral and heavy metal levels. Heavy metals may block thyroid. Detoxing heavy metals with 600mg of cilantro or zeolites or EDTA/DMPS IV chelations m(from Alternative doctor) may help the thyroid work better.
    Acid reflux medicine may lower Vit B12 and stop stomach acid so food is not digested and nutrients don’t come out of the food.
    Celiac diet may help weight be normal and health issues go away fast. Antidepression medicine may have Fluorine which can block thyroid and lower oxygen in the brain causing more depression/suicidal thoughts. Depression/anxiety/panic/suicidal thoughts/obsessing/no sleep can be due to low oxygen in the brain due to cells not being made right to work reight due to not absorbing nutrients due to gluten hurting the intestines so they don’t absorb. Amour thyroid may help more than Synthroid unless you take the supplements to help convert T4 to T3.
    Endocrinologists may not help. They go only by blood tests which don’t say if you are full of heavy metals or low in nutrients to convert T4 to T3 and TSH may not help since you can make antibodies to the pituitary also which makes TSH.
    Dr. Mercola in Chicago or another Alternative doctor may help you fast and then you may thrive/feel terrific. See Mercola site articles/blog on thyroid etc. Yes you may have to pay out of pocket…take loan maybe or ask for payment plan perhaps. .
    Hashimotos…most people are. They can measure antibodies to the thyroid if you are still eating gluten. LDN helps to block gluten and helps heal the gut lining. It gives energy.
    Try Jose Araujo in Racine WI. 1- 414-305-4046. Amour thyroid twice day and LDN 3mg (take at night or morning if you have too much energy) may help. Thyroid medicine…no food for 1 hour before or 2 hours after is best so it can absorb.
    Sunlight/exercise…swim/walk/eating nothing in a box/bag label/premade since it may have gluten contamination/eating organic/cooking pure foods by scratch may help. Nuts sold without the shell may have gluten contamination on them and meat basting or some spices.
    Chiropractors may also help nutrition and Thyro-gold may help.
    Best wishes.
    Reply

  138. I have been hypothyroid since the age of 10. Now 55 and am still trying to find a competent physician who doesn’t think I am crazy and want me to see a psychiatrist. All symptoms percist including chronic uticaria angiodemq (hives). A reent exam and blood work taken. Unfortunately not all the correct thyroid rest were requested. I am soooo tired of the crop we have to go through. Ideas?
    Reply

  139. I have read a lot of success stories of people reducing their anti-TPO antibodies by going gluten free, and taking 200-400 mcg selenium daily, and by going on the AIP diet, etc. Mine reduced a large amount when I got rid of gluten from my diet. However, I have not read much about how to reduce anti-TG antibodies. My anti-TPO antibodies have reduced, but my anti-TG antibodies have increased. Is there any research out there on how to help reduce anti-TG antibodies?
    Reply

  140. HI, You maybe getting hidden gluten so antibodies are still high. Food in a box/bag/label/restaurants/air/cutting boards/toasters/air from cooking pizza/bread/medicines/nuts not in the shell/meat basting/some spices. All antibodies to the thyroid issues may stop due to 100% no gluten. GMO corn may also hurt the gut lining. Th2 of the immune system makes antibodies. Grape seed extract/resveratol/green and more may make more antibodies.
    http://drknews.com/hashimotos-hypothyroidism-immune-basics/
    Synthroid may have gluten in it. LDN may help block hidden gluten…from an Alternative doctor usually. Best wishes.
    Reply

  141. ecerything I read says I should go aip or paleo diet or gluten free. My doctor says that’s unecessary. What’s the truth?
    Reply

  142. I do not have a thyroid. It was removed due to cancer. What and how do I treat myself.
    sypmtoms: weight gain, loss of memory, brittle hair/nails, joint pain, exhaustion, insomnia, dry skin,
    Am taking 1mg Eltroxin, sometimes reducing to half every few days
    Reply

    • Sharon- 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 BOOK
      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

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

      Reply

  143. HI, That is like generic Synthroid…T4 only. Amour thyroid has T4, T3, T2, T1 and calcitonin which the body needs. To convert T4 to T3….need zinc/Se/enough iron/probiotic. I take both Synthyroid and Amour. The Synthroid acts like time release and the Amour helps with the rest..so I take it only once in the morning. Each person is different. Celiac can cause Celiac and low thyroid. Cancer can happen when cells are low in oxygen/pH. Celiac help rebuilds cells to burn oxygen and help absorb more minerals/nutrients which helps pH. The thyroid controls the energy in the cells and oxygen burning. A person needs a high enough dose to help the immune system. Any hidden gluten can make antibodies to the thyroid and make it get worse. You maybe on too low a dose. Hair tests show minerals levels and heavy metals. Celiac may cause people to build up heavy metals since their liver may not be working well. No sleep/tired…low oxygen. Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind may help stress/memory/sleep/oxygen. Joints swelling can be due to gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO. Dry skin..may need fish oil and coconut oil etc Coconut oil may speed up the body and help the gut lining heal and help weight. Better thyroid dose may help weight. Thyro -gold on the internet may help. Sunlight helps the immune system and the rest I do below: Best wishes.
    No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO and vitamins/good oils, LDN and detoxing help me. Vit D3 5000IU, zinc 50mg, fish oil 2000mg, 20000mg of evening primrose oil. 2000mg of lecithin, krill oil, coenzyme Q10, rhodiola, Mg citrate 4000mg, Vit C, 5000mcg of biotin, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind/intrinsic factor kind, MTHF folate, coenyzme Q10, rhodiola, may help brain/body/depression and more health issues. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO corn/soy/canola oil may hurt. Amour thyroid maybe needed since gluten may made antibodies to the thyroid.
    Sunlight (helps the immune system and helps to heal the gut lining),exercise, organic food, good water..not tap water, cooking by scratch pure food, no food in a box/bag/premade/label/restaurant which may help avoid hidden gluten. Nuts not sold in the shell/meat basting/some spices may have hidden gluten and lotion/make up etc. One restaurant cooks special for me…rice/veg/tea/extra mushrooms (no meat since the woks may have MSG/gluten in them).
    EDTA/DMPS IV chelations from an Alternative doctor, 600mg of cilantro, zeolites, organic sulfur, Now brand- Detox support and more may help detox. Hair tests show good minerals and heavy metals. Heavy metals can block thyroid and other chemical reactions in the body/brain.
    LDN may help block hidden gluten, but the Celiac diet is still needed. 100% no gluten may help.
    This is the short version. My longer version is on Mercola site profile. Ask a Health food store for the name of an Alternative doctor who may help you with better thyroid and supplements and Celiac diet. Best wishes.
    Reply

  144. I to have problems with my ear.. And vetigo .. I know it’s my thyroid but NO one will make the connection except look at me like I’m crazy.
    Reply

  145. I have a lot of this stomach stuff going on. I feel so stinking overwhelmed on where to start. I feel like I need a plan; the information goes different directions.
    Reply

  146. Hi, pandanotorious, This is what I do: No gluten/dairy/soy/sugar/GMO and vitamins/good oils, LDN and detoxing help me. Vit D3 5000IU, zinc 50mg if detoxing, fish oil 2000mg, 20000mg of evening primrose oil. 2000 mg of lecithin, Phosphatidylserine/DMAE or krill oil, Coenzyme Q10, Rhodiola, Mg citrate 400mg, Vit C, 5000 mcg of biotin, Nature’s Plus- Source of life multiple, HCl and enzymes with meals, dairy free probiotic, Vit B12 methylcobalamin shot/spray/under the tongue kind/intrinsic factor kind, MTHF folate, coenyzme Q10, rhodiola, may help brain/body/thyroid/ and more health issues. Gluten is wheat/barley/rye..oats may act like gluten with avenin. GMO corn/soy/canola oil may hurt. Amour thyroid maybe needed since gluten may made antibodies to the thyroid. Sunlight makes Vit D in the skin (helps the immune system and helps to heal the gut lining),exercise, organic food, good water..not tap water, cooking by scratch pure food….. no food in a box/bag/premade/label/restaurant which may help avoid hidden gluten. Certified gluten free food may have 20ppm of gluten…too much. Nuts not sold in the shell/meat basting/some spices may have hidden gluten and lotion/make up etc. One restaurant cooks special for me…rice/veg/tea/extra mushrooms (no meat since the woks may have MSG/gluten in them). EDTA/DMPS IV chelations from an Alternative doctor, 600mg of cilantro, zeolites, organic sulfur, Now brand- Detox support, Far Infrared Sauna and more may help detox. Hair tests show good minerals and heavy metals. Heavy metals can block thyroid and other chemical reactions in the body/brain. LDN may help block hidden gluten, but the Celiac diet is still needed. 100% no gluten..no hidden or microscopic gluten may help. Cutting back on gluten or cheating by eating gluten hurts the immune system. It may take 1 1/2 months to heal the gut lining after getting hidden gluten. Amour thyroid has some T3 and calcitonin. Synthroid is only T4..may not convert to T3. Zn/Se/enough iron/strong probiotic may help convert T4 to T3 for thyroid.
    Reply

  147. Tinnitis. I am gluten grain dry egg nightshade free… I have lost 29 lbs due to nothing to eat…tinnitis di missing random elec impulses in back better. Sleep getting better heart palpations more rare…..working on my emotions s..looks Pu Web sites for scenar Te h from Russia and how to work on range and anger
    Reply

  148. If you find one in AZ please let me know. I’m so tired of looking like an idiot with all my complaints but the doctors can’t find anything wrong.
    Reply

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

      HACKING HASHIMOTOS
      http://hackinghashimotos.com/

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

      Lastly, here’s the link to the book in case you have not read it already.

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

      Reply

  150. Hi there….I have had 3 nodules in my thyroid for @7 years. I have zero symptoms and perfect tsh. My mom is 85 and also had a neck lump in her 30’s. They removed it due to trouble breathing. No thyroid meds were ever needed. However, at 84 she suddenly went hypo. I eat a whole foods diet and not much gluten ever. Never have. I just last week tested positive for peridoxase antibody. But again…I have no symptoms. I started drinking coffee decaf a few years ago. Should I quit? Any other suggestions to stop a future of hashis symptoms? Zero symptoms now…no meds. Feel fine. But antibody test wss positive. Thanks for listening…hope you answer
    Reply

  151. Hi, Gluten may hurt…even microscopic gluten and hidden gluten in food/make up/lotions etc. 100% no gluten or GMO corn or other GMO may help. Gluten/GMO corn may hurt the gut lining so less nutrients absorb and gluten may make antibodies. Green tea may help more than coffee..help cancer/gut lining/weight etc. Iodine/iodide may help. I don’t take it daily…too much may also hurt. Best wishes.
    Reply

  152. Tirosint I did not see mentioned. It is an alternative to synthroid levothyroxine From website. Link below. …”contains no sugars, dyes, alcohol, gluten or lactose. It contains only four ingredients: levothyroxine, gelatin, glycerin and water. For patients who have food allergies and certain gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, Tirosint may offer an effective alternative to traditional levothyroxine tablet formulations. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Tirosint offers effective therapy for hypothyroid patients who have difficulty tolerating or absorbing traditional levothyroxine tablet medications.” http://www.tirosint.com/patient-information/tirosint/
    Reply

  153. HI, I am feeling sick after taking Levothyroxine/Amour combo…allergic? Titanium/corn in Dextrose ?Ca stearate from beef tallow in the Amour maybe hurting me, My dose is not too high..was right, but now more leaky gut due to Lyme. GMO corn would not be good or Roundup on it. Too much Ti may hurt. Ca may block thyroid medicine from working, but lab tests may show the hormone in the blood, but it is not working due to Ca or heavy metals. I don’t know what is in Synthroid or Levothyroxine. Thyro- gold…see internet…didn’t make me feel sick. Zinc/Se/enough iron/probiotic maybe needed still to change T4 to T3 for Tirosint, Levothyroxine, Synthroid or Amour etc. Thanks for your awesome help! Happiness…
    Reply

  155. Hi, http://www.rxlist.com/westhroid-drug.htm It has fillers also…Ca/Mg may block thyroid medicine and more. Thyro-gold..no problems with fillers. Any medicine from a pharmacy may have colors/fillers that are not good. I feel poisoned right now from the Amour…think it is the Ti and more. I need thyroid medicine, but even pig thyroid…the pig may not be healthy due to what they eat etc. Best wishes.
    Reply

  156. I was wondering if anyone with ear infections has dealt with debilitating dizziness for a week at a time with hashimotos. The doctors keep telling me that I have Ménière’s disease but now as I am reading all your comments I wonder if it’s related to Hashimotos. Izabella have you come across this?
    Reply

  157. I was diagnosed a little over a year with hypothyroidism but I have so much going on in my body I do what I can to help self but not feeling better. Headaches and brain fog and body pain among others serious fatigue. I’m at a loss.
    Reply

  158. I have Hashimoto’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, Sjogren’s Syndrome and Autoimmune Neutropenia. How do these other autoimmune diseases impact healing my hashimoto’s?

    Reply

  159. I’m Mrs. Molina Chatterjee from Mumbai, India. I’ve been hypothyroid for the last 20 years and according to the doctor my lab results are normal but my symptoms are abnormal. I was put on thyronorm 75mcg. My latest lab results are also normal as below :
    ferritin 19.00
    Free t3 2.45
    Free t4 1.22
    TPO <20
    T3 0.79
    T4 7.00
    TSH 2.34
    R/T3 Unheard of in India
    I would like your opinion on further treatment as my GP is of no help. Even the Endo has told me to live with my miseries as my lab reports seem normal.

    Reply

    • Molina- I’m afraid I can’t comment on your lab results due to liability. I can tell you that while reference ranges of what’s “normal” may vary depending on the lab that produces the test reports, most thyroid patients feel best with a TSH between 0.5-2, and with Free T3 and Free T4 in the top half of the reference range. Hashimoto’s is a complicated condition with many layers that need to be unraveled. While conventional medicine only looks at each body system as a separate category, and is only concerned with the thyroid’s ability to produce thyroid hormone, Hashimoto’s is more than just hypothyroidism. I wanted to pass along these articles that I wrote. I hope they help 🙂

      WHERE DO I START WITH HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/where-do-i-start-with-hashimotos/

      OVERCOMING HASHIMOTO’S
      https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/overcoming-hashimotos-in-the-new-year/

      Reply

  160. I receive your emails and read and love your Root Cause book. From your “What’s Really Going On With Hashimoto’s” article I am trying to access your free gifts–free chapter, Thyroid Guide, and Recipes, but there seems to be no link for them. Help?

    Reply

  161. I am not cold but extremely and I mean extremely hot when no one else around me is. My body hurts when barely any pressure is put on it – almost every where but especially near joints. In fact, it hurts when I get a pedicure and they massage my calves. Lost my taste for most foods, most everything upsets my stomach for a while after eating, I am very careful what I eat so that I won’t gain anymore weight. I am 5′ tall and weigh about 163 now. I should be more in the 130 range or less. I was on Synthroid for several years to control the growth of the nodules in my thyroid but a doctor took me off of it later. No problems while I was on it as long as the dosage wasn’t too large. Regardless of belonging to a gym, being at the gym several hours 5 days a week, no weight loss. I am 74 years old. My eyebrows became very thing especially on the outer edges a number of years ago now. I have been fighting the weight gain for probably 10 years now. Doctors just saying your tests, the typical ones, are “in the range”. That’s the end of that. I sleep poorly as well. I have anxiety attacks without my medicine, some depression (it was worse but not as bad now), tire easily, etc.

    Reply

  162. Hi There,
    I am on synthroid – 50mg. A year ago my hair was shedding excessively (TE) I went on Eltroxin 25mg and it was worse than ever, switched to Synthroid 50mg and the rapid loss has stopped (10 months on) this was in April. It’s now July and my crown and part are getting thinner. In 10 months my hair has now started miniturising – the doc has now suggested androgenic alopecia has kicked in. I have no family history, low testosterone and previously no hair issues. I am 39. While I have read synthroid can cause hair loss those comments don’t go into detail. I just have a feeling thyroid and T4 meds are to blame not my hormones and DHT. Do you have any advice. I am thinking of trialling a natural thyroid replacement but don’t want to trigger more hair loss!! It’s a terrifying cycle.
    Thanks so much.

    Reply

  163. hello Dr.izabella wentz
    could you help me please, i have hair loss for 3 years, i took some multi vitamins but my hair fall did not stop. sometimes it decrease and then back! i think also my energy is low in day.
    i am so upset for my hair loss, please tell me what should i do? may i have hashimoto?
    my doctor said every thing is normal but i does not feel good…my blood test is:
    tsh: 1.9
    ferretin: 70.8
    VIT. D: 38.4
    prolactin: 13.4
    testostrone: 0.31
    estradiol: 230 (i was in luteal)
    progestrone: 7.3
    iron: 149
    zinc: 94
    selenium: 115

    Reply

  164. Hi. I have Hashimoto hypothyroidism and so does my sister and so does my mom. My kids ages 16 (girl) and 13 (boy) have TSH and T4 levels that are within range an negative TPOAb tests but their TGAb is very high (over 400 for my daughter and about 200 for my son). What would be good options to try and see if we can get their TGAb levels down? Or to prevent bigger issues in the future? They do take vitamin D supplements and I am thinking about trying selenium and Wobenzym. Anything else? Not so sure about Betaine with Pepsin because I read it upsets the stomach of some people.

    Thanks for any suggestions.

    Reply

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