Bioidentical Hormones and Hashimoto

Hashimoto is an autoimmune condition that can be reversed and successfully treated through a combination of dietary changes, specific behavioral modifications, and hormone therapies, including bioidentical hormones.

What is Hashimoto?

Hashimoto is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces certain antibodies known as TPO antibodies. These antibodies can disrupt thyroid function and lead to a deficiency in thyroid hormones, known as hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid.

In women entering menopause, progesterone levels drop significantly. This hormonal imbalance can cause the thyroid to reduce its function to create a metabolic balance.

Symptoms of Hashimoto's

Symptoms of this reduced thyroid function may include:

• Weight gain
• Hair loss
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Slowed memory

These symptoms can be identified through simple laboratory tests and a detailed medical history.

How is Hashimoto's diagnosed?

The presence of TPO antibodies is often an indication of developing Hashimoto's. It's important to know that these antibodies can increase over time, and it's their increase that leads to the diagnosis of Hashimoto's.

In Germany, TPO antibody values up to 35 units are considered normal, but this doesn't mean that values below <35 aren't signs of Hashimoto's. Therefore, it's important to monitor these values over years.

Treatment with Thyroid Hormones

The traditional treatment of Hashimoto's includes the administration of T4, an inactive thyroid hormone, also known as L-Thyroxine or Euthyrox. This treats Hashimoto's as a pure thyroid underfunction.

A more comprehensive treatment approach would include dietary changes (low or gluten-free), removal of all metals in the mouth, such as amalgam and various alloys, and a thorough examination of the intestines. If the underfunction persists despite supplementation with selenium, zinc, and vitamins A, D3, and E, T3 preparations or combination preparations might be necessary.

Many autoimmune diseases originate in the digestive system. This cannot be treated with a short intestinal cleanse or fasting cure. A comprehensive treatment protocol is necessary to treat the digestive system, stabilize the disease, and improve general well-being.

Addition: Therapy with Bioidentical Hormones

Therapy with bioidentical hormones can be very useful, especially for women in perimenopause. This treatment is individually adjusted to correct hormonal balance, such as progesterone. However, continuous monitoring of thyroid function is essential to ensure the therapy is effective.

In my own practice, I've found that only about 15% of all patients are satisfied with T4 therapy alone. Therefore, my treatment includes both bioidentical hormones and T3 preparations or combination preparations.

My treatment protocols are based on years of experience and focus not only on laboratory values but primarily on the general well-being and health of patients. If you would like comprehensive advice about how bioidentical hormones can positively influence your Hashimoto's, please schedule a video consultation with us.