Dr. Steven Roach, DC, Thyroid Doctor Near Charlotte, NC Comments:
For the person with autoimmune hypothyroidism, a detox diet that removes inflammatory foods can significantly alleviate thyroid symptoms.
Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism is a condition in which the immune system attacks and destroys the thyroid gland, and it accounts for 90% of hypothyroidism cases in the United States. Hashimoto’s is linked with leaky gut and gut inflammation, conditions that perpetuate thyroid symptoms. The more severe the Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, the more severe the gut issues, and vice versa.
A good detox diet halts this vicious cycle by calming inflammation, stimulating repair and recovery, and boosting energy. A detox diet should never involve frequent hunger or lack of nutrients, factors that only stress the body further.
Hypothyroidism and gluten
Many people don’t realize they have food intolerances. These foods trigger an immune reaction and cause such symptoms as low energy, rashes, joint pain, digestive issues, headaches, anxiety, depression, and more. They also prevent weight loss. The foods people most commonly react to are gluten, grains, dairy, eggs, and nuts.
Many studies have established a link between Hashimoto’s and gluten intolerance, making gluten strictly off limits if you want to improve thyroid symptoms.
Other inflammation triggers
Other common immune triggers include nightshades (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, etc.), legumes, coffee, and, of course, foods high in sugar. Don’t forget, sugary foods include sweet fruits and natural sweeteners, such as honey, maple syrup, and agave.
The hunger-free diet plan
At this point you might be saying, “There is nothing left to eat!” On the contrary, the detox diet resembles what our ancestors ate prior to the industrialization of food, and there is plenty to eat. In fact, it is important not to get too hungry as the low blood sugar caused by chronic hunger causes inflammation. Eat frequently enough to sustain energy and avoid crashing.
For patient’s in our thyroid recovery program a custom-tailored detoxification is usually the first step towards feeling and functioning well again.
