Many people with low thyroid are prescribed hormone replacement without ever being told why their thyroid is underactive. The most common reason is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Although it’s the leading cause of hypothyroidism, it’s often overlooked in standard care.
Hashimoto’s occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Over time, this reduces the gland’s ability to produce thyroid hormones. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Brain fog
- Constipation
- Depression
- Cold intolerance
- Hair thinning
If symptoms continue despite “normal” lab results or medication, the autoimmune root cause may be missed.
Doctors often don’t test for Hashimoto’s because there’s no medication that treats the immune attack itself. Thyroid medication replaces lost hormones, but it does nothing to stop the ongoing immune damage. Without treating the source, symptoms may remain or even worsen.
Functional medicine offers a deeper, more personalized approach.
Instead of focusing only on labs or prescriptions, it looks for the root causes of immune dysfunction. These may include:
- Food sensitivities (especially gluten)
- Gut imbalances
- Chronic stress
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Environmental toxins
Functional medicine is a smart choice for managing Hashimoto’s.
It uses advanced testing and whole-body strategies to reduce inflammation, support immune balance, and help the thyroid function more efficiently. Care plans are customized to each individual—not based on a one-size-fits-all protocol.
Hashimoto’s is manageable. When the immune system is supported and triggers are removed, many people experience significant improvements in energy, mood, digestion, and mental clarity. Some even reduce their need for long-term medication. If thyroid symptoms persist despite treatment, it may be time to take a different path. Addressing the real cause not just the symptoms can lead to lasting relief and a better quality of life.