What is it?
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder where the body mistakenly the thyroid gland. Lymphocytes (white blood cells) and antibodies infiltrate the gland, leading to cellular damage.
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Often confused hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s is the primary cause hypothyroidism in America. This autoimmune disorder results in chronic inflammation and tissue destruction, gradually diminishing the thyroid's ability to produce hormones.othyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not generate sufficient hormones, which can stem from various factors, including the damage caused by Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.
Hoshimoto's Thyroiditis
Creating balance. Restoring function.
Causes of Hoshimoto's and risk factors
Celiac disease may develop from a combination of genetic predispositions, gluten consumption, and other contributing factors, though the exact cause remains unclear. Factors such as infant feeding practices, gastrointestinal infections, and gut microbiome may play a role, but these have to be definitively proven. The disease can also manifest following surgery pregnancy, childbirth, viral infections, or significant emotional stress.
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When the immune system mistakenly reacts to gluten in food, it damages the small intestine'si—tiny, hairlike structures responsible for nutrient absorption. If the villi are compromised, nutrient absorption is hindered, regardless of food intake.
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Risk Factors
Celiac disease is more prevalent among individuals who have:
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A family history of celiac disease or dermatitis heriformis.
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Type 1 diabetes.
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Down syndrome, Williams syndrome or Turner syndrome.
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Autoimmune thyroid disease.
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Microscopicitis.
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Addison's disease.
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Symptoms of Hoshimoto's Thyroiditis
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is known for its challenging diagnosis due to the varying symptoms that individuals may experience. Initially, the condition be asymptomatic, often not showing any signs until it progresses, at which point symptoms of an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism may emerge.
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​​People with Hashimoto’s may experience fluctuating symptoms, including those of an overactive thyroid, known as hyperthyroidism. This inconsistency can be confusing and frustrating, often leading to misdiagnoses and delays in proper treatment. One of the initial signs of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is swelling in the front of the neck, caused by an enlarged thyroid, or goitre. If not addressed,
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Hashimoto’s disease can result in the gradual atrophy of the thyroid gland as its cells are progressively.
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Patients with Hashimoto’s may present with a variety of common symptoms, including:
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- Weight gain
- Puffiness of the face
- Leaky gut syndrome
- Joint and muscle pain
- Cold sensitivity
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Enlargement of the thyroid
- Hoarseness
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The ramifications of Hashimoto’s extend beyond these symptoms. Given that thyroid gland is integral to metabolic processes and numerous bodily functions, disruptions in its activity may lead to a spectrum of complications, such as:
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- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Cardiovascular disease
- Infertility
- Long-term constipation
- Hair loss
- Depression
- Bradycardia
- Hypertension
- Cognitive impairment
Furthermore, untreated Hashimoto’s may lead to but serious complications, including:
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Myxedema: a critical condition characterized by drowsiness, significant lethargy, and potential loss of consciousness. Triggers for myxedema may include exposure to cold, sedatives,, or other stressors, making it a medical emergency.
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Birth defects: individuals with untreated hypothyroidism resulting from Hashimoto’s may have an increased risk of giving birth to children with congenital anomalies, such as intellectual and developmental delays, cleft palate, and issues affecting the heart, brain, and kidneys. Proactive monitoring of thyroid levels prior to conception and pregnancy is essential to ensure timely intervention and mitigate these risks.
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The Balance Functional Medicine approach to Hoshimoto's Thyroiditis
The Balance Functional Medicine approach to Hashimoto's thyroiditis focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes and contributing factors of this autoimmune disorder, rather than solely treating the thyroid itself.
Conducting advanced thyroid panel testing, our we emphasize the importance of supporting the immune and restoring normal immune function, alongside optimizing thyroid performance.
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This holistic approach aims to restore balance within the, potentially allowing the thyroid to regain its normal function. While some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to Hashimoto’s that cannot be altered, is often an environmental trigger or event that initiates the condition. We collaborate with you to pinpoint any factors as bacterial overgrowth, lingering viruses, fungal infections, toxin exposure, food sensitivities heavy metals, or mold that may serve as triggers for your autoimmune disorder.
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Gut health and a diverse microbiome are crucial for immune function and thyroid health, as compromised intestinal barrier function, or 'leaky gut', can disrupt immune responses.
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To enhance these areas of your health, your functional medicine physician may recommend personalized plans that include:
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Eliminating inflammatory foods and beverages: often advise removing gluten and other potentially inflammatory items from your diet, which may include alcohol, soft drinks, dairy, sugar, artificial ingredients, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates.
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Increasing healthy fats and nutrient-rich whole foods: Incorporating foods high in thyroid-supporting nutrients such selenium, zinc, iron, B, and vitamin A, along with healthy fats like olive oil,ocados, nuts, seeds, and wild-caught fish.
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Nurturing gut health: After addressing inflammation, we focus on restoring gut function and diversity through probiotics, supplements, cultured foods likeucha and kimchi, and prebiotic-rich foods such leeks and onions.
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Toxin Removal: Reducing exposure to everyday toxins—like heavy metals and harmful chemicals—by using natural and organic products, air and water filters, avoiding hazardous substances.
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Reducing stress: It's essential to lower stress levels, as chronic stress can elevate cortisol and disrupt hormone. Our practitioners and health coaches can help you create a stress reduction plan that may include improving sleep, practicing restorative yoga, meditation, and engaging in outdoor activities.
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These strategies are just a few ways our healthcare team at Balance Functional Medicine can assist individuals with Hashimoto’s and an underactive thyroid. Your specific approach may vary based on individual findings, and we advise against self-diagnosis and treatment due to the complexities of the condition.
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