Lecture on Hashimoto's

Introduction

• Hashimoto's is not just a thyroid issue, it's a whole-body issue.
• Signals a systemic problem that manifests in the thyroid.
• Critical to understand and address the root cause.

Speaker Introduction

• Afrat Lamandre, Dr. E, NP with a PhD, founder of The New Method.
• Focus on empowering people to realize symptoms are real and identifiable.

Thyroid Basics

• Thyroid as Thermostat: Butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, regulates body functions including metabolism and heart rate.
• Hypothyroidism: Condition where the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

What is Hashimoto's?

• Autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid.
• Leads to hypothyroidism and a damaged thyroid.

Conventional Medicine Treatment

• Typically treated with hormone replacement (T4, e.g., levothyroxine/Synthroid).
• Adjust medication based on blood tests.
• Does not address the root cause of the autoimmune condition.

Functional Medicine Approach

• Focus on identifying and addressing why the immune system is attacking the thyroid.
• Aim to find root causes of systemic issues.

Key Areas to Investigate

Gut Health

• Leaky Gut: Permeable gut lining allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, leading to immune response.
• Gluten Sensitivity and Molecular Mimicry: Gluten can trigger immune response that attacks the thyroid.

Microbiome

• Role of Gut Bacteria: Essential for conversion of T4 to T3, which is necessary for thyroid function.

Viral and Bacterial Infections

• Common infections like Epstein-Barr and H. pylori can trigger autoimmune responses affecting the thyroid.

Stress

• Chronic stress can overactivate the immune system, leading to autoimmune conditions.
• Cortisol produced during stress can interfere with thyroid hormone conversion.

Toxins

• Heavy metals and other toxins can disrupt hormone production by interfering with thyroid enzymes.

Supplements for Hashimoto's

• Iodine: Essential but needs to be balanced.
• Selenium: Protects thyroid and helps hormone production.
• Zinc: Aids in hormone conversion and immune support.
• Iron: Necessary for thyroid hormone production.
• Vitamin D: Supports the immune system.
• B12: Often low in people with Hashimoto's.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduces inflammation.
• Probiotics: Essential for gut health and thyroid function.
• Ashwagandha: Helps with stress management.
• Lysine: Antiviral support.

Conclusion

• Hashimoto's requires a comprehensive approach to address root causes beyond just hormone replacement.
• Important to work with a provider to identify and treat underlying issues.
• The New Method offers resources and assistance for managing Hashimoto's.