Hashimoto thyroiditis: what you need to know
Hashimoto’s disease, also known as Hashimoto thyroiditis or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. These attacks gradually wreak havoc on the thyroid gland, rendering it incapable of producing the hormones required for a variety of bodily functions. This results in hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland.
A diet high in whole, unprocessed foods, such as high-fibre fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; healthy fats; and lean proteins, is the best diet for Hashimoto’s. People with Hashimoto’s disease frequently end up experimenting with various diets until they find one that makes them feel the best.
How do diet and lifestyle changes help?
You are less likely to suffer from certain health conditions if you make healthier dietary choices. When known trigger foods are avoided, autoimmune conditions have the potential to go into remission.
Eliminating your food triggers is such an important part of healing from Hashimoto’s disease. The last thing you want to do is aggravate your already inflamed thyroid.
Foods to eat
● Fruits – Including a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet can help ensure that you get enough vitamins and minerals.
● Non-starchy veggies – Starchy vegetables such as sweet potatoes, peas, corn, and white potatoes contain more sugar than non-starchy vegetables.
● Healthy fats – Salmon, nuts, chia seeds, albacore tuna, and avocados contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help reduce inflammation.
● Plant based Proteins – tofu, beans, lentils and nuts are high in protein and low in saturated fat.
● Gluten-free grains – If you have celiac disease, you should avoid gluten. If you do not have celiac disease but believe you are sensitive to this protein found in wheat and other grains, you can try a gluten-free diet.
● Nuts – Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds are high in protein, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids, whereas peanuts, pecans, almonds, and walnuts are high in protein, fibre, magnesium, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
● Non-dairy foods – Dairy is one of the most troublesome foods for Hashimoto’s patients and avoiding it can help reduce bloating, diarrhoea, and acid reflux.
● Lentils – Foods high in zinc, such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans are beneficial to those suffering from this condition.
● Spices and herbs – Chamomile, gotu kola, and licorice are your pals. Withania is a herb that helps the body cope with stress and may increase thyroid hormone production. Chamomile, of course, helps with stress and sleep, but it also has other advantages.
Foods to avoid
● Added sugar – You must avoid soda, energy drinks, cakes, ice cream, pastries, cookies, candy, and sugary cereals.
● Fast food – Reducing your intake of ultra-processed foods and added salt may help you manage your weight and improve your overall health.
●Highly processed foods – Processed foods contain a lot of sodium which is bad for your thyroid. It also increases the risk of hypertension.
● Gluten-containing grains – If you have thyroid issues, you should try to limit your gluten intake. Gluten is a protein found in grain-based foods such as barley, wheat, and rye. It can impair thyroid medication absorption and irritate the small intestine.