How To Overcome Hashimoto’s Disease Flare Ups

Hashimotos Flare ups

Going through Hashimoto’s flare ups can be a scary and frustrating experience. Usually they happen suddenly and can last for a long time. Even people who manage Hashimoto’s successfully or have achieved remission, experience autoimmune flare ups from time to time.

While it is important to try to identify what triggered your autoimmune flare up and develop some coping mechanisms, there are 3 actionable steps you can make to help you overcome Hashimoto’s flare ups more effectively, support your immune system and improve your thyroid health.

Letting autoimmune flare ups go on for too long without doing anything and hoping that they will disappear on their own is not a good idea because something is obviously wrong and needs attention as soon as possible.

In today’s article I am going to cover what you can do to handle Hashimoto’s flare ups.

Are You On The Hashimoto’s Roller Coaster?

Many people with Hashimoto’s disease constantly have ups and downs that make them feel like they are on a roller coaster ride. They are going through emotional and physical turmoil when symptoms change every month, every week and in some cases every day when a person can interchangeably become hypothyroid and hyperthyroid.

Some thyroid and autoimmune symptoms can get better or worse. There could be periods of a temporary remission that are followed by times when symptoms return. When thyroid health is going downhill more and more new symptoms appear and are getting out of control.

For many, Hashimoto’s disease becomes unpredictable making it difficult to manage and live with because at any moment it can create a different set of health challenges.

But Why Do You Feel This Way?

1. Gradual Progression Of Hashimoto’s Disease

It takes years for Hashimoto’s disease to develop and progress to hypothyroidism. As thyroid cells get damaged during the autoimmune attack, they release their stored thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. This increases thyroid hormone levels and can make a person temporarily hyperthyroid or in an extreme case go through Hashitoxicosis.

Unfortunately, doctors may not suspect the thyroid as a cause of your symptoms. Swings between temporary hyperthyroid states and going back to normal are often misdiagnosed as an anxiety or panic disorder when in fact they happen due to autoimmune Hashimoto’s disease.

2. Unstable Thyroid Levels

With each autoimmune attack, more thyroid cells are destroyed and a person gradually becomes more hypothyroid. Fluctuations of thyroid hormone levels take place within the normal thyroid reference range or slightly outside of the lower range when some people enter a “grey area” of subclinical hypothyroidism.

This means that your TSH and thyroid hormone levels can fluctuate and become unstable within the normal reference range, however you can already experience many hypothyroid and autoimmune symptoms, ups and down in your energy levels, weight gain, hair loss, mood swings, anxiety and depression.

As the thyroid gland makes an attempt to produce more thyroid hormones to compensate for the imbalance, it becomes swollen and can cause a discomfort in the neck area.

3. How Leaky Gut Fuels Hashimoto’s Flare Ups And Autoimmunity

New research has uncovered compelling evidence regarding the role of leaky gut as a trigger for autoimmune Hashimoto’s disease flare-ups, providing valuable insights into the connection between these two conditions.

In fact there is more and more evidence that leaky gut, or as it is called in scientific literature increased intestinal permeability, has been implicated as a potential factor in exacerbating the symptoms and progression of Hashimoto’s disease.

A recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology examined the association between leaky gut and Hashimoto’s disease flare-ups. The researchers found that individuals with Hashimoto’s disease experienced increased intestinal permeability during flare-up episodes compared to periods of remission. This suggests that the disruption of the intestinal barrier function plays a significant role in triggering autoimmune reactions against the thyroid gland.

The study also revealed that certain components, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), derived from gut bacteria, were present at higher levels in the bloodstream during flare-ups.

LPS is known to activate the immune system and promote inflammatory responses. The increased intestinal permeability allows these harmful substances to leak into the bloodstream, initiating an immune response that contributes to thyroid inflammation and exacerbation of Hashimoto’s symptoms or a Hashimoto’s flare up.

Additional research has delved into the mechanisms underlying the link between leaky gut and Hashimoto’s disease flare-ups. It has been proposed that the entry of gut-derived antigens and toxins into the bloodstream triggers the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, immune cells, and autoantibodies specific to the thyroid gland. As a result, levels of TPO and Tg thyroid antibodies could go up.

This immune activation perpetuates a cycle of inflammation, triggers autoimmune flare ups and worsens Hashimoto’s symptoms.

4. Autoimmune Flare Ups Are The Result Of The Immune System Imbalance

Even when you have your autoimmune thyroid disease under control or in the remission, from time to time you may experience autoimmune flare ups when you feel worse and your symptoms intensify.

Conventional medicine focuses on the thyroid alone without taking into a consideration the autoimmune part of the disease and the fact that the thyroid is a part of an endocrine system where all glands affect each other.

Shifts of the immune system is one of the major processes that happen in any autoimmune disease. The body’s immune system becomes imbalanced when one part of the immune system Th1 or Th2 becomes dominant over the other resulting in a Hashimoto’s flare up and further disease progression.

The more the relation of the Th1 and Th2 is out of balance, the more damage to the healthy thyroid tissue occurs and the more advanced Hashimoto’s thyroiditis becomes.

Standard thyroid testing doesn’t involve the evaluation of immune system and testing for thyroid antibodies. As a result, many patients and their doctors don’t know that thyroid imbalance is actually caused by an autoimmune thyroid disease.

Getting an extended thyroid panel when testing your thyroid can give a more comprehensive picture about the autoimmune component well before a person develops full-blown hypothyroidism and helps to deal with autoimmune flare ups.

If you doctor doesn’t order extended thyroid panel, insurance doesn’t cover it or you cannot get to the lab the easiest way to get your thyroid properly tested is to get this thyroid test kit. Just use the discount code DISEASE25 to get your 25% OFF and FREE Shipping (USA, UK, Ireland and Europe).

One of the major factors that contributes to the suppression and shifts of your immune system is stress. In fact, it affects the whole Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid axis, your adrenals and all major hormones.

Imbalances of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid axis, especially low adrenal function and low cortisol output mean that your immune system becomes weak and vulnerable and as a result, autoimmune Hashimoto’s disease symptoms get worse.

How To Get Your Hashimoto’s Flare Ups Under Control

Hashimotos Flare

If you want to support your recovery from an autoimmune Hashimoto’s flare up, here are 3 tips:

Step #1: Stop Overdoing It And Relax More

Doing more than you physically and mentally can and ending up with an autoimmune flareup is what happens to many Hashimoto’s patients.

Give yourself more rest time, reduce stress, get more sleep and improve quality of sleep and start pacing yourself. It is better to take breaks between your activities and stop before you get tired than do everything at once and end up physically exhausted and mentally drained.

Don’t overexert yourself with exercise when you go through Hashimoto’s flare up or when your thyroid levels are off. It is recommended to completely stop exercising if you have Hashitoxicosis or are hyperthyroid because it can make your symptoms even worse.

Over-exercising is seen by your body as a form of stress. As a result, your stress hormones are elevated, liver and muscle glycogen are depleted and thyroid becomes suppressed. If you want to exercise learn here how to do it in a thyroid supportive way.

Step #2: Balance Your Gut Flora And Microbiome

Lack of good bacteria can contribute to Hashimoto’s flare ups and hinder your recovery.

Consider taking a good quality probiotic because it will help you to strengthen your immune system, support T4 to T3 thyroid hormone conversion, improve your energy levels, digestion, nutrient absorption and can improve with many hypothyroid and autoimmune symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog and depression.

By the way, I’d like to let you know that right now a reputable health company is giving away a FREE bottle of high-quality probiotic that can be very helpful for people who need to overcome Hashimoto’s flare ups, have impaired digestion, constipation, depression and low immunity.

Sometimes we just cannot get enough good bacteria with foods alone even if you add probiotic-rich foods such as kefir and/or kombucha to your diet.

For example, one serving of kefir provides on average 2 billion good bacteria while a high potency probiotic you can get today for free has 50 billion beneficial bacteria and three different strains. This makes far superior and more effective for replenishing good bacteria including after the antibiotic use or overuse.

Step #3: Reduce Stress And Give Your Body Nutrients It Needs

Stress and disease deplete your body of nutrients and building blocks it needs to fight the disease, support your recovery and keep you healthy.

Give your body, the thyroid and adrenals nutrients they need. One of the often forgotten nutrients that is absolutely mandatory for supporting liver function, proper detoxification and thyroid hormone production is protein.

Keep in mind that at least 70 to 100 grams of high-quality protein per day is necessary to support proper thyroid and liver function, healing process and immune system. If you are not getting this amount of protein through your diet you are at risk that your recovery from a Hashimoto’s flare up can take longer and your body is going to struggle.

If you have difficulties to get this amount of protein with foods or would like to add protein to your smoothies and juice, you can get it with a protein powder. Right now, you can get a FREE container of a premium protein and experience first hand how adding protein to your diet can help you to improve your thyroid and overall health.

These 2 FREE supplements provide nutrients that are often lacking in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and hypothyroidism. It’s truly free, no strings attached. You can try them out and experience for yourself a wide range of benefits they provide for people with thyroid disease. You can get 1 FREE Bottle of probiotic here and 1 FREE container of protein here

Step #4: Heal Leaky Gut To Stop And Prevent Hashimoto’s Flare Ups

Findings about the connection between Hashimoto’s flare ups and leaky gut syndrome highlight the importance of addressing gut health and intestinal barrier integrity in managing Hashimoto’s disease.

Strategies that aim to restore the integrity of the intestinal lining and reduce intestinal permeability may help prevent or mitigate autoimmune flare-ups.

Dietary modifications play a crucial role in supporting gut health and its integrity. A nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can promote gut healing and reduce inflammation. Avoiding potential trigger foods, such as gluten and dairy, may also be beneficial for individuals with Hashimoto’s disease.

Stress management is another vital aspect of maintaining gut health. Chronic stress can contribute to increased intestinal permeability and immune dysregulation. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and adequate sleep can help manage stress levels and support overall well-being.

Supplementation with specific nutrients, such as probiotics, prebiotics, glutamine, and the right type of omega-3 fatty acids, may aid in promoting a healthy gut environment and reducing autoimmune flare-ups in Hashimoto’s disease.

I would like to introduce to you a NEW groundbreaking supplement called GutReg™ that contains research-based ingredients in highly effective forms and amounts to repair your intestinal protective barrier.

Here is how it works:

1. GutReg™ helps “seal your intestinal walls” against foreign invaders. GutReg™ is specifically designed to address the common problem of a weakened and permeable gut lining, providing optimal support to strengthen it and promote a healthy immune response. The key ingredients in GutReg™ work together to fortify the gut lining, creating a robust defense against foreign invaders and secure your gut walls, preventing pathogenic organisms from entering the bloodstream and causing a cascade of health issues.

2. GutReg™ supplies powerful immuno-nutrients that support a healthy immune system. A strong immune system is crucial for fighting off infections, diseases, and maintaining overall well-being. GutReg™ ensures your immune system receives the necessary support it needs to function optimally.

3. GutReg™ helps to overcome digestive issues such as bloating, gas, occasional heartburn, and irregularity. GutReg™ can help alleviate these symptoms and promote healthy gut function. By addressing the root causes of these problems, GutReg™ allows you to enjoy better digestion and improved quality of life.

With the brand new GutReg™, you’re getting 4 essential gut-healing ingredients that are backed by research that are essential for helping restore a weakened, porous gut lining and supporting a powerful immune system against foreign invaders, including:

  • Zinc and L-Carnosine (PepZin GI®)
    This patented combination of zinc and L-carnosine provides powerful support for your gut lining. It helps restore a weakened and porous gut lining, promoting a healthier and more robust barrier against pathogens.
  • L-Glutamine
    L-Glutamine is often referred to as the “fuel for the immune system” because it is crucial for gut lining health and immune function. Research studies have shown that L-glutamine helps reduce markers of a weakened and porous gut lining, further supporting its beneficial effects.
  • Ginger Extract
    Ginger extract is a remarkable “superpower” spice with exceptional gastrointestinal benefits. It contains highly absorbed standardized gingerols, which posses 2-in-1 immune-supportive properties. These compounds support a healthy balance of gut microbes, contributing to a healthy GI environment and a balanced immune response. Ginger extract also promotes normal intestinal movement, making it effective for individuals experiencing digestive issues.

And today, you have the opportunity to secure your supply of premium GutReg™ up to 71% OFF – as low as $14 a bottle—PLUS free shipping. It even comes with a 60-day total-satisfaction-or-your-money-back guarantee where if you aren’t fully satisfied for any reason you can return even empty bottles for a fast and friendly refund.

Beyond that, it’s important to know that GutReg™ is tested by 3rd party labs to ensure purity and potency. In fact, we guarantee GutReg™ meets label claims – we’ve already done the testing to make sure it does!

Simply put, GutReg™ was designed to be a powerful gut lining support supplement available, and today’s special as low as low as $14/bottle pricing, plus free shipping is only available on the first come, first served basis.

So, if you would like to re-introduce more foods back in to your diet safely and don’t want get stuck on a restrictive diet forever…

==> Secure BioTrust GutReg™ Up to 71% OFF + FREE Shipping While Supplies Last

While more research is needed to fully elucidate the intricate relationship between leaky gut and Hashimoto’s disease flare-ups, these recent discoveries emphasize the potential therapeutic importance of addressing gut health as part of a comprehensive approach to managing Hashimoto’s disease and reducing frequency of autoimmune flare ups.

References:

1. Molecular Mimicry, Bystander Activation, or Viral Persistence: Infections and Autoimmune Disease. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2006 January; 19(1): 80–94. doi:  10.1128/CMR.19.1.80-94.2006

2. Probiotics Ingestion Does Not Directly Affect Thyroid Hormonal Parameters in Hypothyroid Patients on Levothyroxine Treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2017; 8: 316.

3. Autoimmunity and the Gut. Autoimmune Dis. 2014; 2014: 152428.

4. Immune System Stimulation by Probiotic Microorganisms. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition,2014 Feb; 54(7):938-56.

5. Primary hypothyroidism in an adult patient with protein-calorie malnutrition: a study of its mechanism and the effect of amino acid deficiency. Metabolism. 1988 Jan;37(1):9-14.

*I have partnered with Bio Trust Nutrition to make these free products available to you.*

About Marina Gutner, PhD

Marina Gutner, PhD, researcher, medical writer, thyroid blogger, founder and Admin of Outsmart Disease who writes about life-changing treatments for hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and autoimmune disease and how to balance hormones in women