Dr. Raina Stoyanova: Gluten Should Be Avoided In Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Author: Nia Rouseberg
Time for reading: ~3
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
Joint series with the "Helping Health" Foundation - specialists in diets for various diseases.
Nutrition in Hashimoto's thyroiditis
is a specific diet applied in the treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland, which occurs when the wrong signals in the immune system, causing an increased cycle of formation of antibodies against the glandular tissue of this organ.
It has been observed that in some human communities, where animal food is excluded, and proteins and fats are only of plant origin (nuts, seeds) and water is drunk from copper vessels, the disease does not exist.
In the disease, the way of eating and maintaining a regular rhythm of eating and releasing the intestines is extremely important. It is believed that clearing the intestines of accumulated toxins can prevent deterioration.
- What foods should patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis eat?
Protein - 15-20 grams of protein at each meal. Fish is a good choice, so is beef and pork. A protein shake may also be added for a snack.
Foods rich in antioxidants are needed - to fight free radicals, a product of the inflammatory process.
Foods rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, vitamin C and E, iodine, zinc and selenium should be chosen. Vitamin A and beta-carotene can be provided with: carrots, goose liver, eggs, spinach (slightly cooked), pumpkin, peppers, apricots, melons, sweet potatoes. Vitamin C - C: pepper, broccoli, citrus, goji berry, chokeberry. Vitamin E - with sunflower seeds, almonds, avocados. Selenium is rich in foods: Brazil nuts, mushrooms, shrimp, oatmeal, sunflower oil, brown rice.
- What foods should be avoided in Hashimoto's thyroiditis and why?
These patients should avoid gluten. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is thought to be more common in people with celiac disease - gluten enteropathy. The gluten molecule is similar to that of thyroid tissue and the autoimmune response is similar to that of gluten intolerance. Aspartame is contraindicated in thyroid problems not only because of its known toxicity.
Iodized salt is also not recommended, although the production of thyroid hormones depends on the presence of iodine. It is not possible to take enough salt to reach the recommended dose of iodine - 150 mcg. In addition, aluminum and dextrose are known to be added to most commercial salt packages. Sea or Himalayan salt is a far better choice.
Some unsaturated fats are not useful in Hashimoto's thyroiditis - they do not lead to hypothyroidism, but omega-6 fatty acids can support the decay of the inflammatory response.
In this endocrine problem, soy consumption is not recommended due to the high concentration of isoflavonoids. Even a small amount of soy could disrupt the already compromised function of thyroid hormones. Exceptions are fermented soy products, such as tempeh, miso and others.
- In what cases is it necessary to prepare an individual diet for the patient with Hashimoto?
Each case must be considered individually. Autoimmune thyroiditis manifests itself in different ways and is not equivalent to reduced thyroid function, but is the most common. About 5% of cases occur with increased or hyperthyroidism. The preparation of a personalized menu is desirable for all diseases, because it will be tailored to the specific metabolism, needs and condition of the gland.
- Should the regime be followed for life or is its periodic application enough? Are there any age characteristics?
The diet for thyroiditis is healthy, balanced and varied enough to become a way of life. Age characteristics are important insofar as caloric intake must be adapted to the respective age and needs.
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