What exactly is Hashimoto’s?
Hashimoto’s, also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, is a chronic autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own thyroid tissue, triggering inflammation.
The thyroid gland produces important hormones that influence metabolism, energy production, and many other bodily functions. If the thyroid gland is damaged by the inflammation, it can lead to hypothyroidism in the long term.
Hashimoto’s often develops gradually and therefore frequently goes unnoticed for a long time. Fatigue, exhaustion, difficulty concentrating, and weight fluctuations are among the possible symptoms.
How does Hashimoto’s develop?
Hashimoto’s is what’s known as an autoimmune disease. This means that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the body—in this case, the thyroid gland.
This abnormal immune response leads to chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. Over time, this can damage the tissue, causing the thyroid gland to produce fewer and fewer hormones.
The exact cause of Hashimoto’s disease remains unclear to this day. However, various factors may play a role:
1. Genetic predisposition
Hashimoto’s disease occurs more frequently in some families.
2. Hormonal fluctuations
For example, during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.
3. Stress and psychological strain
Chronic stress can affect the immune system.
4. Excess iodine
Too high a level of iodine can place additional strain on the thyroid gland and exacerbate symptoms in some people with the condition.
Typical symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease
Hashimoto’s disease often develops slowly and therefore frequently goes unnoticed for a long time. Since the thyroid gland influences many important bodily functions, the symptoms can vary widely.
Possible symptoms include:
1. Fatigue & Exhaustion
Many people with Hashimoto’s feel constantly weak or listless.
2. Feeling Cold & Sensitivity to
Cold Metabolism often slows down, causing people to feel cold more easily.
3. Weight Gain
Weight fluctuations can occur even with no change in diet.
4. Concentration Problems
Memory problems or so-called “brain fog” symptoms may also occur.
5. Dry skin & hair loss
Hashimoto’s can also affect the skin, hair, and nails. Many people with the condition find hair loss particularly distressing.
6. Mood swings
Inner restlessness, depressive moods, or irritability are also possible.
7. Menstrual irregularities
In women, hormonal balance may also be affected.
Typical symptoms of Hashimoto’s.
Daily Life with Hashimoto’s: Tips for Greater Well-Being
Hashimoto’s can affect daily life through fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or Mood swings can have an impact. However, adopting a few mindful habits can often improve your well-being and provide targeted support for your body.
1. Maintain a balanced diet
The following are especially recommended:- Foods rich in omega-3, such as fish, nuts, or flaxseed oil
- Foods containing selenium, such as eggs, mushrooms, lentils, or fish
- Adequate vitamin D
Iodine should only be consumed in moderate amounts, as excessively high iodine levels can worsen the condition.
2. Support gut flora
Healthy gut flora plays an important role. Probiotic foods can support digestion and the immune system, for example:
- Yogurt
- Sauerkraut
- Kefir
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
3. Reduce stress
Stress and psychological strain can exacerbate symptoms. Relaxation techniques such as:
- walks
- Yoga
- Breathing exercises
- Meditation
- getting enough sleep
can help relieve stress on the body and mind.
4. Make sure to get enough exercise
- Going for a walk
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Yoga
5. Be mindful of gluten intake
Many people with Hashimoto’s report an improvement in their symptoms through a low-gluten or gluten-free diet.
6. Attend regular checkups
This allows treatment to be tailored to your individual needs.
7. Give your body enough rest
Hashimoto’s is often accompanied by fatigue. That’s why it’s important to take your body’s warning signs seriously and build enough rest into your daily routine.
These medicinal plants can provide natural support for Hashimoto’s
Certain medicinal plants can help people with Hashimoto’s gently alleviate and positively influence symptoms such as inner restlessness, exhaustion, sleep problems, or digestive issues.
These selected medicinal plants can naturally support well-being in people with Hashimoto’s.
- Annual mugwort is traditionally used to support the immune system and aid in detoxification.
- Wolf's-foot has a calming effect and helps balance mood.
- Balloon Vine are used to support heart health and circulation.
- Lemon balm has a calming and relaxing effect; it is used to relieve stress and inner restlessness and to promote restful sleep.
- Rock Rose is known for its antioxidant properties and is traditionally used to strengthen the immune system.
- Propolis supports the immune system and has anti-inflammatory effects.
