Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States—and it’s often misunderstood or overlooked for years. As an autoimmune condition, Hashimoto’s occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and impaired hormone production. Over time, this can impact nearly every major system in the body.
At Vaya Physical Therapy & Wellness, we take a root-cause approach to managing autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s, helping our patients move beyond symptom relief to full-body healing.
What Is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?
Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system targets the thyroid—a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck responsible for regulating metabolism, energy, temperature, and more. As inflammation damages the thyroid, its ability to produce hormones (T3 and T4) declines, often resulting in hypothyroidism.
While Hashimoto’s can affect anyone, it is more common in women, particularly during middle age or after pregnancy.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s can develop slowly and may be misattributed to stress, aging, or other health issues. Common signs include:
- Chronic fatigue or low energy
- Unexplained weight gain
- Brain fog or memory difficulties
- Dry skin and brittle nails
- Cold sensitivity
- Constipation
- Thinning hair or hair loss
- Depression or anxiety
- Joint or muscle pain
- Puffy face or swelling
- Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing
Because these symptoms are non-specific, many individuals live with Hashimoto’s for years without an accurate diagnosis.
Health Risks Associated with Hashimoto’s
When not properly managed, Hashimoto’s can increase the risk of other health conditions, including:
- Adrenal dysfunction (fatigue, sleep issues)
- Blood sugar imbalances or insulin resistance
- Leaky gut and digestive disorders
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., estrogen dominance)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Fertility challenges and pregnancy complications
Understanding and addressing these interconnected systems is key to comprehensive care.
Root Causes and Triggers
Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s are influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the most common triggers include:
- Chronic stress: Disrupts immune regulation and thyroid hormone conversion
- Nutrient deficiencies: Low levels of selenium, zinc, iodine, B12, and vitamin D
- Food sensitivities: Especially gluten, dairy, and soy, which can provoke immune responses
- Toxin exposure: Pesticides, plastics, and synthetic chemicals can disrupt endocrine function
- Gut health: Imbalances in gut bacteria (dysbiosis), leaky gut, and infections like H. pylori or Epstein-Barr virus
- Infections and inflammation: Ongoing immune activation contributes to thyroid tissue damage
Natural Support for Hashimoto’s
While medication (such as levothyroxine) is often necessary to manage thyroid hormone levels, true healing also involves supporting the immune system, gut health, and lifestyle.
Nutrition for Thyroid and Immune Health
A whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet is foundational:
Recommended:
- Selenium-rich foods (Brazil nuts, wild salmon, sunflower seeds)
- Zinc sources (grass-fed meats, pumpkin seeds, legumes)
- Anti-inflammatory fats (olive oil, avocado, wild-caught fish)
- Probiotic and prebiotic-rich foods (fermented vegetables, fiber-rich plants)
- Gluten-free and dairy-free eating plans to reduce inflammation
Foods to Limit or Avoid:
- Gluten, dairy, and soy (may increase gut permeability and inflammation)
- Processed foods, sugars, and refined oils
- Artificial sweeteners and additives
Key Supplements (with clinical guidance):
- Selenium: Reduces thyroid inflammation
- Zinc: Supports immune regulation
- Vitamin D: Modulates immune responses
- Magnesium: Promotes metabolic balance and stress resilience
- Vitamin B12: Supports neurological function and energy
- Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha or Rhodiola help manage stress
- Probiotics: Support gut integrity and immune health
Lifestyle Strategies for Healing
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress is a major trigger for autoimmune flares. Practices like breathwork, mindfulness, and nature walks are powerful tools.
- Prioritize Restorative Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours per night to promote hormonal and immune regulation.
- Exercise Intelligently: Gentle movement—such as yoga, walking, or low-impact strength training—supports circulation and reduces inflammation without overtaxing the adrenals.
- Reduce Toxin Exposure: Choose organic produce, avoid endocrine-disrupting products, and filter your water and air when possible.
Final Thoughts
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a complex condition that affects far more than just the thyroid gland. A successful approach requires a holistic perspective that addresses the root causes—inflammation, nutrient imbalances, immune dysfunction, and lifestyle triggers.
At Vaya Physical Therapy & Wellness, we help patients identify their unique drivers of illness and develop personalized plans to restore energy, balance hormones, and support long-term wellness.
Ready to take control of your thyroid health?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your healing journey.
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