Dr. George Sakorafas informs us about the disease
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common autoimmune disease affecting the
thyroid gland. It is characterized by inflammation and infiltration of the thyroid gland
by lymphocytes, often leading to hypothyroidism a situation where the
thyroid underfunctions and produces insufficient hormones.
Treatment and Nutrition for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
The treatment of hypothyroidism caused by thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s usually involves the administration of levothyroxine, a synthetic
form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. In addition to medication,
nutrition can play a supportive role in the management of
symptoms.
Foods to Avoid When Someone Has Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Although there is no strictly defined diet for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis certain foods may worsen symptoms in some patients, such as:
#1. Foods with Gluten: People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis have increased
risk for celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes intolerance to
gluten. Even without celiac disease, avoiding gluten can
benefit some patients.
#2. Foods with Sugar: Processed and added sugar can
cause inflammation and worsen autoimmune symptoms.
#3. Processed Foods: Processed foods often contain
additives and preservatives that may negatively affect his health
thyroid.
#4. Lactose: Lactose intolerance is common in people with thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s and can affect the digestion and absorption of drugs.
#5. Fast Food & Pancakes: These foods are usually high in unhealthy nutrients
fatty and can contribute to inflammation.
Special Diets for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
In addition to avoiding certain foods, some patients may
benefit from special diets, such as:
#1. Gluten Free Diet: This diet excludes all sources of gluten and
may help reduce antithyroid antibodies and
improving thyroid function.
#2. AIP Diet (AutoImmune Protocol Diet): This diet is more restrictive
and excludes a wider range of foods that can cause inflammation in
people with autoimmune diseases.
It is important to note that research on diet and
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is still ongoing and the recommendations may
vary by patient. Always consult the doctor before doing
significant changes in your diet.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune condition that requires
ongoing management. In addition to medication, the adoption of a hygiene
diet and avoiding foods that may worsen symptoms
can contribute to improving patients’ quality of life.
Dr. Georgios Sakorafas
Endocrine Surgeon (Thyroid-Parathyroid)
Adjunct Professor of Surgery, University of Athens
T. Coordinator Director of Surgery Clinic of Hospital “Agios
Saturday”
