Did you know that 90% of all hypothyroid cases are autoimmune? Autoimmune thyroid, commonly know as Hashimoto’s disease is the most common autoimmune disease in the United States (estimated at 35 million). The body interprets itself as a threat and makes antibodies against the thyroid tissue, which over time leads to tissue destruction and symptoms. Did you know that thyroid medications do not address the autoimmune component of this condition? Thyroid supplementation is very important with an elevated TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) but the traditional model of medicine ignores the underlying autoimmune aspect of Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism. Although patients are often told to “diet & exercise” or take another medication(s), these are ineffective and allow the hypothyroid condition to progress. So what causes Hashimoto’s Disease and what can be done to feel better?
Hashimoto’s Disease along with all other autoimmune conditions develops when three criteria are present in the body: Leaky Gut (permeability), Genetic Susceptibility, and a Trigger. There are several known triggers that exacerbate autoimmune conditions and hypothyroidism including: gluten intolerance, vitamin D polymorphism (the body’s inability to use natural vitamin D), iodine excess, heavy metal toxicity, estrogen surges, pregnancy (especially postpartum changes), gastrointestinal infections, and insulin surges. Perhaps the most common and most critical is gluten intolerance (not just celiac disease!), to which 80% of Americans have a genetic predisposition. The majority of these conditions are addressed at Red Tail Wellness Center and rather than symptom suppression, we focus on removing the root cause and allowing your body to heal itself.
People who suffer from this debilitating condition are some of the most rewarding clients to work with as great changes can be made very simply. Since autoimmunity is complex, a detailed history is always taken at the first visit. It is during this visit that many insights regarding your particular case surface and a more specific treatment plan can be determined. We have found that determining and addressing immune dominance is integral in the treatment of Hashimoto’s Disease. (As described in: Why do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms? by Datis Kharrazian – #1 seller on Amazon). Put simply, is one side of your immune system driving the antibody reaction, thus destroying the thyroid over time? It is nearly impossible to manage an autoimmune condition without addressing and regulating the immune system! With new technologies, testing and natural therapies people have begun to take back their health and finally reach the vitality they’ve missed for decades! For more information please contact the Red Tail Wellness Center at 303-882-8447 or for more information on thyroid please visit my website.
