Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Evangeline Lindorf
Going to the beach helps Hashimoto's Ask me why!
Natural Treatments for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Holistic Approach
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as autoimmune thyroiditis, is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and, over time, impaired thyroid function. Practicing as a holistic, integrative nurse practitioner in Provo, Utah, I often encounter patients seeking natural treatments for Hashimoto’s to complement conventional care. Individualized treatment is crucial. Several natural protocols have shown promise in managing this condition. Below, I outline some of the most effective holistic approaches, including iodine protocols, castor oil packs, essential nutrients and supplements, treating underlying infections, and the importance of a gluten-free diet.
1. Iodine Protocols
Iodine is essential for thyroid function, as it plays a critical role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. While iodine deficiency contributes to thyroid dysfunction, excessive iodine intake may, in very rare cases, exacerbate autoimmune activity in the thyroid. Therefore, it’s important to approach iodine supplementation cautiously. For patients with Hashimoto’s, I offer and recommend an iodine loading test to determine baseline levels before starting supplementation. If deficiency is confirmed, low-dose iodine supplementation can be considered, typically in combination with selenium. Selenium is crucial because it helps mitigate the inflammatory detoxing effects from iodine supplementation. We carefully titrate based on the patient’s response and lab results.
2. Castor Oil Packs
Castor oil packs are a time-honored remedy in holistic medicine, valued for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. When applied over the thyroid gland, castor oil packs can help reduce inflammation and support lymphatic drainage, which can be very beneficial for patients with Hashimoto’s.
The castor oil packs and castor oil I have found to be of the highest quality are available at the following link:
https://www.shopqueenofthethrones.com/
Many patients report reduced neck pain and swelling, as well as an overall sense of well-being with regular use.
3. Essential Vitamins and Nutrients
Several vitamins and minerals play a pivotal role in supporting thyroid health and modulating the immune system. Key nutrients to consider include:
Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto’s. Supplementation with vitamin D3 can help modulate immune function and reduce autoimmune activity. A typical dose ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 IU daily, depending on the patient’s blood levels. The best way to get Vitamin D is through your skin from the sun. In Utah, we are so far north of the equator that many people are deficient year round, and may need sun exposure + supplementation. I test all of my patients' Vitamin D levels routinely.
B Vitamins: B vitamins, particularly B12, are essential for energy production and neurological function. Many patients with Hashimoto’s are found to be deficient in B12, which can contribute to fatigue and cognitive symptoms. Supplementation with a high-quality B-complex can support overall thyroid function and energy levels. I also test for the MTHFR gene to see if you need methylated B vitamins.
Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body, including those related to thyroid hormone production and utilization. It also supports adrenal health, which is often compromised in patients with chronic autoimmune conditions. Magnesium glycinate or citrate are well-absorbed forms that can be taken daily.
Zinc and Selenium: Both of these minerals are crucial for thyroid hormone synthesis and immune regulation. Selenium, as mentioned earlier, is particularly important when supplementing with iodine, while zinc supports immune function and may help reduce thyroid antibody levels.
4. Treating Underlying Infections
Chronic infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Lyme disease, and intestinal dysbiosis, have been implicated in the onset and exacerbation of autoimmune thyroiditis. Identifying and addressing these underlying infections is a critical component of a holistic treatment plan. For example, if EBV is suspected, antiviral herbs in combination with generalized immune system support may be beneficial. In cases of intestinal dysbiosis, a comprehensive gut-healing protocol, including probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes, can help restore balance to the microbiome and reduce systemic inflammation. Functional medicine testing can be useful in identifying these hidden infections, allowing for targeted treatment that addresses the root cause of the autoimmune response.
5. Gluten-Free Diet
A gluten-free diet is often recommended for patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as gluten has been shown to trigger autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals. This is particularly true for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, both of which are more prevalent in people with Hashimoto’s. Eliminating gluten from the diet can reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and lower thyroid antibody levels. Many patients report significant improvements in symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues after adopting a gluten-free diet.
In addition to avoiding gluten, it’s beneficial to focus on a nutrient-dense diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and berries. Reducing the intake of processed foods, refined sugars, soy, caffeine, and dairy can also support thyroid health and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Managing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis requires a comprehensive and individualized approach. By integrating the use of castor oil packs, essential vitamins, minerals, and supplements, going on a gluten free diet, and treating underlying infections, patients can significantly improve their thyroid function and overall quality of life. My goal is to empower my patients with the tools and knowledge they need to take control of their health, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of their condition.
Safe Exercise for People with Hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) If you’ve been diagnosed with hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) , you know that movement can feel tricky. Joints may slip, ache, or feel unstable, and sometimes exercise feels intimidating and overwhelming. However, the right kinds of exercise will help you get stronger, protect your joints, and improve your daily comfort. The goal with hEDS is not to push your body to extremes—it’s to gradually, over time, build gentle strength, stability, and confidence. Why Exercise Matters with hEDS The right types of movement can: Strengthen muscles that support loose joints. Improve balance and body awareness (reducing injury risk). Ease pain and fatigue. Boost mood and energy. Nurse Pro Tip : Think “support” not “stretch.” The goal isn’t more flexibility—you already have plenty—but stability and protection. ✅ Safe & Helpful Exercises When choosing activities, think slow, steady, and supportive. 💧 Water-Based Exercise Swimming, water walking, or gentle aquatic therapy take pressure off your joints while still giving you resistance to build strength. 🧘 Modified Pilates or Yoga Focus on core strength and stability. Skip deep stretches—keep movements small, controlled, and steady. 🏋️ Light Strength Training Resistance bands or light weights help build protective muscle. Stick with lighter loads, higher reps, and slow, intentional movements. 🚶 Walking or Cycling Flat-ground walking and recumbent cycling are gentle, low-impact ways to support cardiovascular health. 🤲 Physical Therapy Exercises A physical therapist who understands hEDS can teach you safe, customized strengthening routines to stabilize your most vulnerable joints. ( Email me @ yourinspiredvitality@gmail.com for personalized recommendations or referrals to Utah PTs familiar with hEDs). ❌ Exercises to Avoid Some activities can increase the risk of injury or worsen symptoms. It’s best to avoid: High-impact sports (running, jumping, contact sports). Heavy weightlifting (places too much strain on joints). Deep stretching or “contortion-like” yoga. Fast-paced HIIT workouts with explosive movements. Gymnastics or flexibility-focused training. Nurse Pro Tip : If the focus of a workout is “how far you can stretch” or “how heavy you can lift,” it’s probably not the right fit for hEDS. 💡 Tips for Moving Safely Listen to your body—stop if something feels wrong. Prioritize stability, not flexibility. Work with professionals who understand hypermobility. Progress slowly—small, consistent steps are safest. ✨ The Bottom Line -- Living with hEDS doesn’t mean avoiding exercise. It means finding the right kind of movement that supports your body instead of stressing it. With gentle, strengthening exercises, you can feel stronger, reduce pain, and enjoy a more active, confident life.
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.