Certain eating plans, including the Autoimmune Protocol diet and a grain—or gluten-free diet, may help reduce inflammation that contributes to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that gradually destroys thyroid tissue via lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that are part of your immune system

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland at the base of the neck that secretes hormones affecting nearly every organ system. It also controls metabolism and growth. Eventually, damage to this gland leads to insufficient thyroid hormone production.

This article explains the diet and lifestyle modifications most likely to benefit those with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

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Photography by Aya Brackett

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is one of the most common thyroid disorders in the United States and other developed countries. Even when treated with medication, its symptoms may significantly affect quality of life.

Research shows that diet and lifestyle play vital roles in managing Hashimoto’s, as numerous individuals find that their symptoms persist even with medication. Plus, many people who exhibit symptoms aren’t given medication unless they have altered hormone levels.

Specifically, diet and lifestyle changes can help with several different factors related to Hashimoto’s. For example, cutting certain foods out may help reduce inflammation, which is often tied to diet and may be a driving factor in Hashimoto’s.

Diet and lifestyle modifications can also help reduce your chance of developing comorbidities such as obesity and diabetes.

Plus, these changes may help slow or prevent thyroid damage caused by elevated thyroid antibodies and manage body weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

That said, every person with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis responds differently to treatment, which is why an individualized approach is so important.

The following are some evidence-based dietary tips to help treat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Many studies indicate that those with Hashimoto’s are more likely to have celiac disease than the general population. As such, experts recommend that everyone diagnosed with Hashimoto’s be screened for celiac disease.

What’s more, some evidence suggests that gluten– and grain-free diets may benefit people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

In a 6-month study of 34 women with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a gluten-free diet reduced thyroid antibody levels while improving thyroid function and vitamin D levels, compared with a control group.

Other research notes that people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis — or autoimmune diseases in general — likely benefit from a gluten-free diet even if they don’t have celiac disease.

Learn more: The gluten-free diet: a beginner’s guide with meal plan and everything you need to know about the grain-free diet.

The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is designed for people with autoimmune diseases. It removes potentially harmful foods like grains, dairy, nightshades, added sugar, coffee, legumes, eggs, alcohol, nuts, seeds, refined sugars, oils, and food additives.

In a 10-week study of 16 women with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the AIP diet significantly improved quality of life scores and significantly decreased levels of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP).

Although these results are promising, larger longer-duration studies are needed. This is also an diet that should be prescribed and monitored by an experienced healthcare professional.

Learn more: AIP (autoimmune protocol) diet: a beginner’s guide.

Lactose intolerance is very common among people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

If you suspect lactose intolerance, cutting out dairy may aid digestive issues, as well as thyroid function and medication absorption.

Keep in mind that this strategy may not work for everyone, as some people with Hashimoto’s tolerate dairy perfectly well.

Learn more: Lactose-free diet: Foods to eat and avoid.

Inflammation may be a driving force behind Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. As such, an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits and vegetables may significantly improve symptoms.

A study of 218 women with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis found that markers of oxidative stress — a condition that causes chronic inflammation — were lower in those who ate fruits and vegetables more frequently.

Learn more: Anti-inflammatory foods to eat.

Following a diet low in added sugar and highly processed foods but rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods may help improve one’s health, manage one’s weight, and reduce Hashimoto’s-related symptoms.

Whenever possible, prepare your meals at home using nutritious foods like vegetables, fruits, proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs.

Learn more: 11 simple ways to focus on whole foods instead of clean eating and Whole-foods, plant-based diet: a detailed beginner’s guide.

Several supplements may help lower inflammation and thyroid antibodies in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Plus, those with this condition are more likely to be deficient in certain nutrients, so supplementing may be necessary

Beneficial supplements include:

Note that supplementing with high doses of iodine in the absence of an iodine deficiency may lead to adverse effects in those with Hashimoto’s. Don’t take high dose iodine supplements unless a healthcare professional has directed you to do so.

Learn more: Supplements and thyroid health: What to know.

If you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a nutrient-dense diet may help reduce the severity of your symptoms and improve your overall health. Focus on the following foods.

Keep in mind that some people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis avoid a few of the foods mentioned above, such as grains and dairy. It’s important to experiment with your diet to find out what foods work best for you.

Learn more: What’s the best diet for hypothyroidism?

Eliminating or restricting the following foods may help reduce Hashimoto’s symptoms and improve your overall health :

Note that some cruciferous vegetables and soy products contain goitrogens, which are substances that may interfere with thyroid hormone production

Yet cruciferous vegetables are highly nutritious, and cooking them diminishes their goitrogenic activity. Thus, they are unlikely to interfere with thyroid function unless eaten in extremely large amounts.

Some evidence also suggests that soy harms thyroid function as well, so many people with Hashimoto’s choose to avoid soy products. Nonetheless, more research is needed.

Although these recommendations may help many individuals, it’s important to experiment with your diet to find the best method for you.

Working with a dietitian who specializes in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can help you narrow down potentially problematic foods and set up an eating pattern that’ll help you feel your best.

A study done in 60 women with Hashimoto’s found that engaging in stress reduction practices helped to reduce their depression and anxiety, improve overall quality of life, and lower thyroid antibodies.

Additionally, for maximum absorption, it’s best to take thyroid medication on an empty stomach at least 30–60 minutes before breakfast or at least 3–4 hours after dinner.

Keep in mind that when you’re first starting medication, it may take a few weeks or longer to start feeling better. If your symptoms aren’t improving, speak with a healthcare professional about other options.

As Hashimoto’s symptoms may significantly affect your quality of life and mental health, be sure to find a healthcare team that you trust. This may take some time, but it’s essential to getting the right treatment.

Can you eat eggs if you have Hashimoto’s?

If you adopt the AIP diet, you will want to cut out eggs. Otherwise, you should ask your doctor whether eggs should be included in your diet, as every person is different.

What triggers Hashimoto’s flare-ups?

Unlike other autoimmune diseases, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis doesn’t have distinct “flares.” Instead, it slowly damages the thyroid gland over time. Eventually, it can progress to hypothyroidism, where the thyroid can no longer produce enough hormones.

Certain factors can affect the severity of Hashimoto’s symptoms. This includes nutritional deficiencies, as well as medications and supplements if they interfere with your thyroid medication. Stress can also worsen the condition by slowing down metabolism and hormone levels.

Learn more: What are the symptoms (and causes) of a Hashimoto’s flare-up?

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid. It causes numerous symptoms that may persist even if you take thyroid medication.

Research shows that dietary and lifestyle changes can significantly improve your symptoms and boost your overall health. However, every person with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is different, so it’s fundamental to find a dietary pattern that suits your needs.

A dietitian or other healthcare professional who specializes in autoimmune diseases may be able to help you find an eating pattern that works for you.