Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack the thyroid gland. This can lead to a decreased production of thyroid hormones, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and cold intolerance.
There is some evidence that going gluten-free may be beneficial for people with Hashimoto's. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Some people with Hashimoto's may have a gluten sensitivity, which means that their body reacts to gluten in a negative way. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the gut lining, which can further impair thyroid function.
One study found that people with Hashimoto's who went gluten-free for 6 months had a significant decrease in their levels of thyroid antibodies. Thyroid antibodies are proteins that the body produces in response to an attack on the thyroid gland. High levels of thyroid antibodies are associated with more severe symptoms of Hashimoto's.
Another study found that people with Hashimoto's who went gluten-free for 12 months had an improvement in their symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and hair loss. They also had an improvement in their quality of life.
It is important to note that not everyone with Hashimoto's will benefit from going gluten-free. Some people may not have a gluten sensitivity, and others may not be able to maintain a gluten-free diet long-term. However, if you have Hashimoto's and you are considering going gluten-free, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor first.
Here are some tips for going gluten-free if you have Hashimoto's:
Read food labels carefully. Gluten can be hidden in many foods, even those that you wouldn't expect.
Look for gluten-free certified products. This is the best way to ensure that a product is truly gluten-free.
Cook at home more often. This will give you more control over what ingredients are in your food.
Join a gluten-free support group. This can be a great way to get support and advice from others who are also gluten-free.
Going gluten-free can be a big change, but it can be a worthwhile one for people with Hashimoto's. If you are considering going gluten-free, talk to your doctor and do your research. With a little planning, you can make the transition to a gluten-free diet and start feeling better