Natural Remedies for Managing Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Natural Remedies for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Are you looking for natural remedies to help with the symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis? Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and often leading to hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. This is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States and mostly affects women. While traditional treatment usually involves hormone replacement therapy, many people also look for other natural remedies to support their thyroid health and improve their overall well-being.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Approach

Approximately 50% of individuals with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to address their symptoms and support immune balance. Below, we explore natural remedies, including vitamins, supplements, diet, and lifestyle practices, that can enhance thyroid function and reduce inflammation.

Vitamins and Supplements for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

For Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis certain vitamins and supplements can support thyroid function, reduce inflammation, and support overall health. Here are some commonly recommended vitamins and supplements for people with Hashimoto’s, along with references to support their effectiveness:

Selenium

• Why it’s important: Selenium plays a crucial role in the conversion of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) into its active form, triiodothyronine (T3). It also helps reduce thyroid antibodies, particularly thyroperoxidase (TPO) antibodies, which are elevated in Hashimoto’s.
• Recommended dosage: 200 mcg/day.
• References: Studies have shown that selenium supplementation can reduce TPO antibodies, which may help slow the progression of Hashimoto’s and improve thyroid function.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Selenium 200 mcg

Zinc

• Why it’s important: Zinc supports the immune system and helps with thyroid hormone metabolism. Zinc deficiency is common in those with thyroid disorders and can impair thyroid function.
• Recommended dosage: 25-30 mg/day.
• References: Research shows that zinc supplementation may improve thyroid function, especially in people who are deficient.
• Recommended Supplement: Garden of Life Raw Zinc.

Vitamin D

• Why it’s important: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto’s. Adequate vitamin D can help modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation.
• Recommended dosage: 2000-5000 IU/day (based on blood levels).
• References: Several studies suggest a strong association between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, with supplementation helping to reduce TPO antibodies and improve symptoms.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Mega D-3 & MK-7 5000 IU

Magnesium

• Why it’s important: Magnesium supports thyroid function and aids in the conversion of T4 to T3. It is also essential for energy production.
• Recommended dosage: 200-400 mg/day.
• References: Magnesium supplementation has been shown to support energy levels and thyroid function.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Magnesium Citrate

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

• Why it’s important: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the inflammation associated with Hashimoto’s.
• Recommended dosage: 1000-3000 mg/day.
• References: Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation and help regulate the immune system in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Omega-3 1000mg

B-Vitamins (Especially B12)

• Why it’s important: Many people with Hashimoto’s have a vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 is vital for energy, nerve health, and red blood cell formation, which are often impacted by hypothyroidism.
• Recommended dosage: 500-1000 mcg/day.
• References: B-vitamin supplementation, especially B12, has been shown to improve fatigue and other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.
• Recommended B12 Supplement: Garden of Life B12
• Recommended B Complex Supplement: Garden of Life Raw B Complex
  • B Vitamins are often synthetic even in some of our recommended quality brands. If you have a B12 deficiency we recommend both Garden of Life B12 and Garden of Life Raw B Complex. See our natural vs synthetic ingredients page for more information.

Vitamin C

• Why it’s important: Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect thyroid cells from oxidative stress, which can be elevated in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s.
• Recommended dosage: 500 to 1,000 mg/day.
• References: Some studies suggest that vitamin C may help reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with Hashimoto’s.
• Recommended Supplement: Deva Vegan Food Based Premium Vitamin C
  • C Vitamins are often synthetic even in some of our recommended quality brands. See our natural vs synthetic ingredients page for more information.

Iron (if deficient)

• Why it’s important: Iron is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s are often linked with iron-deficiency anemia.
• Recommended dosage: Based on lab results, typically 30-50 mg/day.
• References: Supplementing with iron can improve thyroid hormone levels and general well-being in those with deficiency.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Double Strength Iron 36mg

Probiotics

• Why it’s important: Gut health is crucial for immune function. Many individuals with Hashimoto’s have digestive issues, and probiotics can help restore gut balance, reduce inflammation, and improve the absorption of nutrients.
• Recommended dosage: A high-quality probiotic with multiple strains, 10-50 billion CFUs/day.
• References: Studies have shown that probiotics can help modulate immune function and reduce inflammation in autoimmune conditions.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Probiotic Defense

Ashwagandha (Adaptogenic Herb)

• Why it’s important: Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps regulate the stress response, which is vital since chronic stress can exacerbate thyroid dysfunction.
• Recommended dosage: 300-600 mg/day.
• References: Some studies suggest that ashwagandha may support thyroid hormone production and reduce stress, which can be beneficial for Hashimoto’s.
• Recommended Supplement: Now Foods Ashwagandha 450 mg

Now Foods is one of my favorite brands since they often source natural ingredients and are affordable. Click here for a complete list of my recommended supplement brands and a 25% discount thru my FullScript store.

Recommended Diets for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Several dietary approaches are commonly recommended to support thyroid health and minimize inflammation in those with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis:

1. Paleo Diet: Encourages whole, unprocessed foods like meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables, while avoiding grains and dairy. This diet aims to reduce inflammation and stabilize blood sugar levels.
   • The Complete Paleo Cookbook for Beginners
2. Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet: Similar to the Paleo diet but more restrictive. It eliminates common allergens and inflammatory foods to support gut health and reduce autoimmune responses.
   • The Autoimmune Protocol Made Simple
3. Gluten-Free Diet: A significant percentage of people with Hashimoto’s also have gluten sensitivities. Removing gluten from the diet may reduce thyroid antibodies and improve thyroid function.
   • Gluten Free for Beginners
4. Hashimoto’s Protocol: The Hashimoto’s Protocol is a detailed plan that helps manage Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis through changes in diet and lifestyle. It focuses on eating an anti-inflammatory diet filled with whole foods that are good for your body while cutting out things that can cause problems, like gluten, dairy, and processed sugars. The plan also includes ways to manage stress, regular exercise, and specific supplements to support thyroid health and improve overall well-being.
   • Hashimoto’s Protocol: A 90-Day Plan for Reversing Thyroid Symptoms and Getting Your Life Back
5. Mediterranean Diet: Rich in anti-inflammatory foods like olive oil, fish, and leafy greens, the Mediterranean diet promotes heart health and reduces inflammation, making it a good option for those with Hashimoto’s.
   • The Mediterranean Diet for Beginners

Each of these dietary approaches aims to reduce inflammation, optimize nutrient intake, and support the immune system.

Other Natural Remedies for Supporting Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

• Stress Management: Chronic stress can make autoimmune conditions worse, so it’s important to find ways to relax. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help lower stress levels and support thyroid health.
• Regular Exercise: Engaging in gentle activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can improve metabolism and support thyroid function. High-intensity exercise should be approached cautiously, as it may increase fatigue in those with hypothyroidism.
• Adequate Sleep: Poor sleep can worsen autoimmune symptoms. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep to support immune balance and hormone regulation.
• PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Therapy: PEMF therapy helps reduce inflammation and boosts energy production at the cellular level. Individuals with autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s report improvements in fatigue, inflammation, and overall well-being with regular PEMF use.

By adding these natural remedies to a complete plan, people with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can boost their thyroid health, lower inflammation, and improve their overall well-being.

This website may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through them. This information is for educational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice. Always check with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.