Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States, accounting for up to 90% of cases. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage that can eventually result in hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is characterized by the presence of antibodies called anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (Tg) antibodies in the blood. These antibodies can be detected through blood tests and are used to help diagnose the condition.
Unfortunately, most doctors do not initially test TPO, and if found elevated, will even dismiss stating it is common to have elevated antibody levels due to having Hypothyroidism, which is honestly poor medical care. Often many clients have had to advocate for themselves finding the right doctor to draw the appropriate labs and receive the diagnosis.
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can vary but may include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, depression, and a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). In some cases, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may not cause any symptoms initially and may be diagnosed incidentally during routine blood tests.
So, why does it even matter?
It is important to know whether or not Hashimoto’s is a part of your hypothyroidism diagnosis.
Here’s why:
Appropriate Treatment
Since Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder, there is a more holistic approach to treatment; a whole body focused, sustainable method. It is important to focus on the root cause and develop a catered treatment plan from there. My Keto Girls start an anti-inflammatory diet, incorporate intermittent fasting and learn how to eat mindfully. This approach will help manage systems and prevent further damage to your thyroid gland.
Identification of other autoimmune disorders
People with one autoimmune disorder are at increased risk of developing other autoimmune disorders. By identifying and treating Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, you may be able to prevent or manage other autoimmune disorders that could develop due to reducing inflammation and addressing the root cause.
Monitoring for potential complications
In some cases, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can lead to complications such as goiter, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer. With a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, healthcare providers can monitor for these potential complications and take appropriate action if necessary.
Overall, a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is important because it allows for appropriate treatment and monitoring, and can help to identify and manage potential complications and other autoimmune disorders.
It’s also important to note that while Hashimoto’s is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, there are other causes as well, such as iodine deficiency, certain medications, and pituitary gland disorders.
The Keto Girl Approach to Hashimoto’s & Hypothyroidism
When starting your thyroid healing journey, the first step is to identify the root cause of your weight gain such as: insulin resistance, inflammation, adrenal fatigue (i.e. high stress), ineffective absorption of nutrients & medication etc.
From there, you can begin to treat the root cause by creating simple anti-inflammatory keto meals that keep your metabolism optimal, always full, and help you lose consistent weight while reversing your Hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s. This is all while stopping the restriction from so many foods which often leads to binging and a sluggish metabolism.
You will learn how to develop a mindful, long-term relationship with food, living a Keto Girl lifestyle. My Keto Girls lose their first 20, 30, 50+ pounds not by calculating every single carb, protein and fat. Instead, they lose weight by addressing the root cause of their weight gain and develop a step-by-step action plan to help them lose weight forever.
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