Hypothyroidism is rarely just a thyroid problem—it’s usually a sign of deeper imbalances in the body. Here are some of the most common root causes of low thyroid function:
1. Autoimmune Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s is the #1 cause of hypothyroidism—it’s an autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and gradual loss of thyroid function. Although it is the #1 cause of hypothyroidism in North America, many go undiagnosed because it requires testing beyond the standard TSH testing, and diagnosis does not change your medical doctors' treatment plan. This is why many people with hypothyroidism suffer symptoms despite taking thyroid medications. The medication is replacing thyroid hormone in the blood, so TSH may be normal, but the chronic inflammation of Hashimoto's is going unchecked and wreaking havoc on the body.
What triggers Hashimoto’s?
Chronic gut inflammation (leaky gut, dysbiosis, SIBO)
Food sensitivities (gluten, dairy, soy)
Viral infections (Epstein-Barr virus)
Chronic stress and adrenal dysfunction
How to address it naturally:
Heal the gut with an anti-inflammatory diet (removing gluten, dairy, processed foods).
Support the immune system with vitamin D, selenium, and omega-3s.
Reduce stress & inflammation with meditation, sleep, and adaptogenic herbs.
2. Nutrient Deficiencies: Fuel for Thyroid Hormone Production
The thyroid relies on key nutrients to produce hormones. Deficiencies in these nutrients can slow thyroid function:
Iodine – Needed for T3 & T4 hormone production
Selenium – Needed to convert T4 to active T3 and protects the thyroid from inflammation
Zinc – Supports thyroid hormone conversion
Iron – Low ferritin levels slow thyroid function
Vitamin D – Helps modulate immune function
Magnesium & B Vitamins – Support energy production and hormone balance
How to address it naturally:
Incorporate nutrient-dense foods like seafood (iodine), Brazil nuts (selenium), grass-fed beef (iron & zinc), and eggs (B vitamins).
Test for nutrient deficiencies and supplement if needed.
3. Poor Gut Health & Leaky Gut
80% of thyroid hormone conversion happens in the gut, meaning poor digestion and gut inflammation can directly impact thyroid function.
Common gut issues linked to hypothyroidism:
Leaky gut (intestinal permeability) – Triggers immune system overactivation/Hashimoto's
Dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria) – Affects thyroid hormone metabolism
H. pylori infection – Reduces stomach acid, impairing nutrient absorption
How to address it naturally:
Heal the gut with a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet.
Increase fiber & probiotics to support digestion.
Support stomach acid production with apple cider vinegar or digestive bitters.
4. Chronic Stress & HPA axis dysfunction
High cortisol suppresses thyroid function by reducing TSH and blocking T4 to T3 conversion (T3 is the active thyroid hormone).
Signs of adrenal dysfunction:
Waking up tired, even after sleeping 7-9 hours
Midday energy crashes and needing caffeine
Feeling wired at night but exhausted during the day
Keep in mind, symptoms of HPA axis dysfunction can overlap with hypothyriodism and low ferritin.
How to address it naturally:
Prioritize stress management (breathwork, meditation, journaling).
Support the nervous system with adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola.
Ensure blood sugar balance by eating protein, fats, and fiber at every meal.
5. Toxin Exposure & Heavy Metals
The thyroid is highly sensitive to environmental toxins such as:
Fluoride & chlorine (block iodine absorption)
Pesticides & endocrine disruptors (found in processed foods, plastics, and beauty products)
Heavy metals (mercury, lead, aluminum)
How to address it naturally:
Switch to filtered water to reduce fluoride exposure.
Use non-toxic beauty & household products.
Support detox pathways with cruciferous vegetables, targeted supplements, and Epsom salt baths.
How to Naturally Support Thyroid Function
If you suspect hypothyroidism, the goal is to address the root causes. Here’s a natural approach to get you started on the path to supporting thyroid health:
1. Get the Right Lab Tests
Many people go undiagnosed because doctors only test TSH, which doesn’t give the full picture. Ask for:
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
Free T3 & Free T4 (Active thyroid hormones)
Reverse T3 (Can show if stress is blocking thyroid function)
Thyroid Antibodies (TPO, Tg) – Check for Hashimoto’s
Ferritin, Vitamin D, B12 , and urine iodine
2. Eat a Nutrient-Dense, Thyroid-Supportive Diet
Protein-rich foods – Eggs, grass-fed meats, fish
Healthy fats – Wild salmon, avocados, coconut oil, ghee, olive oil
Cruciferous vegetables (cooked) – Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
Iodine-rich foods – Seaweed, fish, eggs
Selenium-rich foods – Brazil nuts, fish
Avoid gluten, dairy, and soy
3. Reduce Stress & Balance Hormones
Prioritize stress reduction with breathwork and sleep.
Use adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, holy basil).
4. Optimize Gut Health
Increase fiber, probiotics, and fermented foods for digestion.
Address gut infections if needed (test for SIBO, Candida, or H. pylori).
Final Thoughts
Many of the clients I work with who have hypothyroidism come to me feeling stuck because they are searching for one single root cause, when in reality, hypothyroidism is usually multifactorial. While addressing gut health, nutrient deficiencies, stress, autoimmunity, or toxins individually may help, the best results come from tackling all contributing factors at once. If we focus only on one piece of the puzzle while ignoring other key triggers—like poor digestion, HPA axis dysfunction, inflammation, or hormone imbalances—we won’t see true progress. Healing requires a comprehensive approach that supports thyroid function, immune regulation, and overall balance simultaneously. When we stop looking for a single root cause and instead address the full picture, we unlock real, sustainable improvements in our thyroid health and overall well-being.
If you’re ready to take a deeper dive into nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle strategies tailored to your unique needs, let's set up a complimentary chat to see if we are a good fit to work together. You deserve to feel empowered on your journey!
Are you struggling with a sluggish thyroid? Drop a comment below or share your experience! 💬
Disclaimer
This post is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or treatment plan.
The author and publisher of this content are not liable for any adverse reactions, effects, or consequences resulting from the use of any information provided. Individual health needs vary, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
If you have a medical concern, please seek guidance from a licensed medical professional.
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