“My Doctor said diet has no impact on my thyroid.”
This incompetence is still out there. I had a patient a few weeks ago tell me their endocrinologist said diet has nothing to do with thyroid. It can only be managed by thyroid hormones. 😔
Recent research has provided compelling evidence that dietary and lifestyle changes can profoundly influence autoimmune Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, a condition that affects nearly 90% of people with hypothyroidism. A recent study demonstrated that a low-carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet significantly reduced thyroid antibodies, which are key markers of autoimmune thyroid disease.
The Study: Diet Makes a Difference
In the three-week study, nearly 200 people with Hashimoto’s were divided into two groups:
1. One group followed a low-carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet.
2. The other followed a standard low-calorie diet.
The results were remarkable:
• The low-carb group experienced a 40% to 60% decrease in thyroid antibody levels.
• The low-calorie group, however, saw antibody levels increase by 9% to 30%.
The low-carb group also experienced modest weight loss, further supporting the link between diet and improved autoimmune health.
What Did the Study Group Eat?
The diet that reduced Hashimoto’s antibodies focused on:
• Low carbohydrates: 12–15% carbohydrates, 50–60% protein, and 25–30% fats.
• Lots of vegetables: A wide variety of vegetables to support gut bacteria and immune health.
• Lean meats and fish: High-quality protein sources.
• Avoidance of goitrogens: Foods like cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower), soy, and watercress, which may interfere with thyroid function.
The researchers also excluded gluten, dairy, eggs, legumes, and grains, which are often inflammatory for people with autoimmune conditions.
Functional Medicine and Diet for Hashimoto’s
At Apollo Health, we often recommend the Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) Diet for managing Hashimoto’s and other autoimmune diseases. This diet is similar to the study diet, focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods that support gut health and immune function.
In functional medicine, we recognize the profound role diet plays in reducing inflammation, improving gut bacteria, and supporting thyroid health. This study is further evidence that food can be a powerful tool for managing autoimmune conditions.
Take Control of Your Hashimoto’s Hypothyroidism
Managing Hashimoto’s starts with understanding your triggers and making informed dietary choices. At Apollo Health, we specialize in creating personalized plans to help you manage autoimmune diseases through functional medicine approaches.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you manage Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism and other autoimmune conditions.