Is Intermittent Fasting Beneficial or Harmful for Hashimoto's Disease?

Understanding Hashimoto's Disease and Fasting

Hashimoto's disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the thyroid gland. This causes inflammation and damage to the thyroid tissue, leading to underproduction of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism). Some of the most common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold temperatures, joint and muscle pain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, and depression.

Intermittent fasting (IF) has become a popular dietary strategy for weight loss, blood sugar regulation, and other health benefits. Proponents believe fasting gives the digestive system a break while energizing cells through ketosis. But is fasting actually beneficial for those living with Hashimoto’s?

Potential Benefits of Fasting for Hashimoto's

Some early research suggests short-term, intermittent fasting may provide certain advantages for those with Hashimoto’s disease:

• May help with weight loss or maintenance
• Can reduce inflammation
• May improve gut health and autoimmune response
• Allows the liver to rest and rejuvenate

Losing excess weight can help balance hormone levels and relieve Hashimoto’s symptoms like fatigue. Some inflammation reduction could ease joint pain and swelling. And giving your system a break from digestion may benefit the microbiome diversity of your gut.

Potential Risk Factors of Fasting with Hashimoto's

However, experts also point out certain downsides or precautions regarding fasting with a thyroid condition:

• Can slow an already underactive metabolism
• May worsen fatigue, brain fog, and nutrient absorption
• Can trigger headaches, nausea, or electrolyte imbalances
• Requires close monitoring of thyroid medications

Very low calorie diets through extreme fasting put stress on your body already struggling with hormone regulation. Dehydration, changes in medication potency, and essential vitamin/mineral deficits could do more harm than good if one is not careful.

Best Practices for Fasting with Hashimoto’s

If you want to experiment with fasting for Hashimoto’s benefits, start with the following best practices:

Try Shorter Fasting Periods

Extreme fasting may not be wise long-term for those with hypothyroid issues. Consider shorter windows like 12-14 hours without food each day. This allows your system a decent block of time to rest.

Avoid Total Calorie Restriction

Lower daily calories too much, and your metabolism will slow further. Focus instead on time-restricted feeding windows without worrying about overall calories. Be sure to eat high nutrient foods within your window.

Stay Hydrated and Listen To Your Body

Drink plenty of electrolyte-rich fluids before, after, and even during fast periods. And most importantly, stop immediately if you feel off or symptomatic in any way.

Adjust Medications Under Doctor Supervision

Thyroid drugs can be impacted significantly by dietary changes. Work closely with your doctor to modify drug types or dosages to account for fast schedule changes.

Best Foods to Eat While Fasting for Hashimoto’s

Carefully consider the best foods to eat during non-fasting periods if you try intermittent fasting with Hashimoto’s disease. Focus on the following:

Nutrient-Dense Fruits and Vegetables

Fill up on antioxidant and vitamin-rich produce like berries, citrus fruits, bell peppers, spinach, kale, and broccoli. These provide nourishment and energy without taxing your compromised digestion.

High-Quality Proteins

Fatty fish, grass-fed meats, pasture-raised eggs, bone broth, and plant proteins give you the amino acids you need. This prevents the loss of lean muscle mass as a side effect.

Healthy Fats

Extra virgin oil, nuts, seeds, avocado, and even full-fat dairy offer essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. Ensure you get enough of these in feeding windows.

Fermented Foods

Kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, and kefir introduce gut-healthy probiotics. Healing your microbiome may aid the autoimmune response underlying Hashimoto’s.

Foods to Avoid While Fasting with Hashimoto’s

Be sure to steer clear of the following food items linked to worsening thyroid dysfunction:

Soy Products

The phytic acid in unfermented soy beans interferes with nutrient absorption. Furthermore, compounds resemble estrogen that can hinder thyroid function.

Cruciferous Vegetables

The goitrogens in vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale can disrupt thyroid hormone production in excess.

Gluten-containing Grains

Wheat products trigger inflammation and intestinal permeability for those sensitive. Stick to ancient grains instead.

Added Sugars

Stay away from sweets, sodas, juices, candies, and desserts with added sugar. These spike blood sugar and insulin throwing off thyroid hormones.

Caffeine and Alcohol

Coffee, energy drinks, tea, and alcoholic beverages act as toxins in the body. Limit use which stresses the endocrine system.

The Bottom Line

Research shows brief, intermittent fasting may benefit those living with Hashimoto’s hypothyroid disease. However, certain risks still exist when restricting calories and meals. Work closely with both your doctor and dietitian to determine if occasional fasting aligns with your condition. When allowed, stick to shorter fasts, stay hydrated, supplement wisely, and select the most nutritious whole foods to refuel.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.