Hypothyroidism is an under-functioning thyroid gland and Hashimoto Thyroiditis is the most common form, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, thinning hair, constipation, depression and anxiety. It is more prevalent in females and occurs between the ages 30-50 years old, with the incidence increasing with age.

There are many factors that may play a role in triggering Hashimoto’s, such as genetic, immune (where the body loses self-tolerance and creates antibodies which attack the thyroid), hormonal and environmental ¹.

Multiple dietary deficiencies have also been linked to Hashimoto’s, such as iron, selenium, zinc and vitamin D ². Stress can induce immunosuppression via increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity and cortisol release, causing inhibition of thyroid function and thyroid hormone release and favouring inflammation ³.

Infections such as the Epstein-Barr virus and more recently, Covid-19 can also be a trigger ⁴ ⁵. There are a lot more factors that can play a part in the pathogenesis of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, such as toxic overload and post pregnancy changes.

If you would like to know more about how you can support your thyroid nutritionally and lifestyle-wise, please book a free 15-minute discovery call or an in depth initial consultation