Though related to hypothyroid, Hashimoto’s is actually a very different condition and requires a very different approach. Hypothyroidism is a problem with your thyroid gland; Hashimoto’s is a problem with your immune system.

Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. With this disease, your immune system attacks the thyroid. The thyroid becomes inflamed and can’t make enough thyroid hormones.

Secondary hypothyroidism occurs when the hypothalamus produces insufficient thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) or the pituitary produces insufficient TSH. Sometimes, deficient TSH secretion due to deficient TRH secretion is termed tertiary hypothyroidism.

Foods to avoid on the Hashimoto’s low thyroid diet

• Sugars and sweeteners, including honey, agave, maple syrup, coconut sugar, etc.
• High-glycemic fruits: Watermelon, mango, pineapple, grapes, canned and dried fruits, etc.
• Tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant, and other nightshades.
• Mushrooms.

Having another autoimmune disease — such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or lupus — increases your risk of developing Hashimoto’s disease. Radiation exposure. People exposed to excessive levels of environmental radiation are more prone to Hashimoto’s disease.

Which stage of Hashimoto’s are you in?

• Initiation. This is the start of Hashimoto’s.
• Expansion.
• Full-blown disease.
• Medicated Hashimoto’s.
• Medicated and lifestyle managed Hashimoto’s.
• Putting the brakes on the disease.
• Preventively managing Hashimoto’s.

Eating a thyroid-friendly diet can help reduce inflammation and decrease the severity of flare-ups. Try to eat meals that mostly consist of lean meat, fish high in omega-3’s, and vegetables. Some studies suggest that eating a gluten-free diet may also help people with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s.

If you deal with chronic pain, exercising in water or on a recumbent stationary cycle may be suit you best. If you’re feeling good and are up to it physically, daily high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which activates anti-inflammatory mechanisms, can boost your workouts and help manage Hashimoto’s low thyroid.

Being rich in fiber, coconut water can prevent food cravings and overeating. Also, it can maintain your blood sugar level and help in better digestion. Notably, poor digestion and spiked blood glucose levels are already associated with weight gain.