Thyroid Reset - 4 Ways to Get Your Thyroid Back on Track

Thyroid Reset – 4 Ways to Get Your Thyroid Back on Track

Ready to tackle your thyroid problems but unsure of where to start? 

​Enter the 10-day thyroid reset.

Let me first start by saying…

This guide is only a starting point! ​This isn’t going to completely resolve every one of your problems, and you may ultimately need further restrictions and changes. 

But:

It is the first place I would start if you are overwhelmed and it will definitely help improve your thyroid function and metabolism.

​I created this because it just isn’t feasible to see every patient personally and there are so many out there who need help… and I want to do what I can to move forward with my mission to help as many Hashi and Hypothyroid patients as possible!

So let’s start with some ground rules.

Who is this for?

  • People who have recently been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s or Hypothyroidism
  • People who have not tried any other interventions before
  • People who are ready to take action on their health and make changes

Who isn’t this for? 

  • People who have failed more restrictive diets like the Autoimmune Protocol
  • People who are already working with a Functional Medicine Practitioner
  • People who are looking for a “quick fix”

What is the 10 Day Thyroid Reset? 

This guide contains a small portion of my 60 Hormone Mastery Guide if you like what you see here you can find more information about the complete guide here

​The full guide contains a step-by-step walkthrough for 60 days and includes recipes, shopping lists, supplement guides, weight loss guides, and detoxification guides – ALL designed to help improve your thyroid function naturally!

Did you know that lifestyle factors (1) like what kind of food you put in your mouth, how much stress you have, how much you sleep, and how much you exercise all play a major role in your overall health? 

If you ask any Doctor if the foods that you eat or don’t eat are important for reversing disease, they will all unanimously agree. 

But when was the last time your Doctor sat down and talked to you about your diet, your energy levels, or the stress in your life? ​

​And that is the problem.

If all of these things are so important why hasn’t anyone addressed them for you?​

This guide is designed to get you from ‘couch to 5k’ but with your thyroid!

You see…

One of the biggest frustrations for me is that no matter how many people I see in my office I still never really seem to make a dent in helping all the people that need it. ​

So even though I may not be able to see everyone in my clinic, I can definitely give you the tools to help get you started. 

Speaking of that, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. 

​This Thyroid Reset Diet is actually going to cover more areas than just diet…

I broke down the 4 most important categories when it comes to healing your thyroid and boosting metabolism and expanded upon them below. 

If you want to get the full benefit then you need to commit to making changes in these 4 categories for the following 10 days. ​

DOWNLOAD FREE RESOURCES

Foods to Avoid if you Have Thyroid Problems:

I’ve found that these 10 foods cause the most problems for thyroid patients. Learn which foods you should avoid if you have thyroid disease of any type.

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The Complete List of Thyroid Lab tests:

The list includes optimal ranges, normal ranges, and the complete list of tests you need to diagnose and manage thyroid disease correctly!

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Thyroid Reset Diet Guidelines

Diet

  • 10 days of Solid Commitment
  • No more than 6-8 servings of Goitrogenic foods per week
  • No cheating

Exercise

  • High-Intensity Interval Training once per week
  • 1 hour of Low-Intensity Exercise (like walking) Daily
  • 10,000 Steps per day minimum

Supplements

Detox

  • Actively avoid Endocrine Disruptors
  • Deep Sweat once per week
  • Drink 64 ounces of water per day

Reboot Your Diet

Low carb high fat foods

Real, Whole food that you should focus on eating. If it doesn’t look like food, don’t eat it!

Where should you start? 

I’ll make it easy…

Eat real whole food. Period.

If it has more than 1 ingredient then don’t eat it. If it doesn’t pass the eyeball test then don’t eat it. ​You should be able to easily look at food and determine if it was made from a plant, or in a plant. 

In addition, there are a couple of No-Nos that every Thyroid patient should be aware of.

1. You should Avoid Calorie Restricted Diets at all costs

Calorie-restricted diets actually make thyroid function worse. (2) 

When you restrict calories your body thinks you’re in a state of starvation, and in order to preserve energy, it increases the production of Reverse T3 and reduces T4 to T3 conversion.

As little as 25 days of calorie-restricted dieting can reduce thyroid function (3) by up to 50%. 

2. ​You should Avoid Low-Fat Diets

Low fat is synonymous with high sugar. Not only that but low-fat diets have never been shown to cause sustained weight loss. 

​Remember that foods high in sugar may ultimately cause insulin resistance and lead to further hormonal imbalances. Insulin resistance (and elevated insulin levels) are notorious for causing Thyroid Resistance and increasing Reverse T3 levels. 

3. You should be cautious of very low carbohydrate diets

While it is true that low-carb diets do cause the most effective weight loss (4), they can potentially cause worsening fatigue in some hypothyroid patients. 

​That doesn’t mean you necessarily need to avoid them completely, but it does mean that you should only start this kind of diet if the person recommending it understands how carbs influence energy levels and adrenal function in thyroid patients. 

Low carb diets result in the most weight loss but can be harmful to hypothyroid patients

People suffering from thyroid problems do much better on a moderate-carb diet – around 20-30% of calories from carbs is a good starting point (and what you should focus on for these 10 days). 

After thyroid function and conversion have been optimized you can then consider reducing carbohydrates further. Because the majority of people are NOT optimized I generally don’t suggest low-carb diets to start with. ​

4. You should avoid eating more than 6-8 servings of Goitrogenic foods per week and these foods should be steamed instead of eaten raw

 

No more than 6-8 servings of goitrogens per week

Goitrogens are compounds that limit thyroid function and production by limiting the amount of iodine the thyroid can take in (5). 

These goitrogens are found in both the environment and in foods and may play a role in how you are feeling. 

Foods that contain goitrogens (you can find the list below), typically do not cause many issues for the majority of people suffering from thyroid problems. 

But, to be safe, you can limit your exposure to goitrogens in the foods that you consume by steaming them before you eat them

This tactic will limit the total amount that your body is exposed to.  

While it’s theoretically possible to cause thyroid dysfunction as you consume even healthy foods, in the practical world the risk of this happening is very slim. 

Foods high in goitrogens include

  • Cruciferous vegetables (Bok choy, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, and Cauliflower), and some other foods – peaches, pine nuts, pears, soy milk, soybeans, etc.
  • Quick Tip: Steaming foods that are high in goitrogens actually limits the active goitrogenic compounds in the food. If you are sensitive to goitrogens make sure you don’t eat these foods raw. 

Revitalize Your Exercise Routine

the science behind high intensity interval training

Exercise is another important area that requires some special considerations for patients with thyroid problems. 

​You have to remember that exercise is a stress on your body. And if you have a sluggish thyroid your body can’t necessarily tolerate that stress. 

In my practice, I’ve found that some patients aren’t exercising at all due to extreme fatigue (which isn’t good), and those that are exercising tend to be over-exercising thinking it will solve their weight problem (which also isn’t good). 

The truth is that you should really be somewhere in between…

Exercise is kind of like Goldilocks, too much is a bad thing and too little is also a bad thing. 

​Not only that but there are some distinct types of exercises that thyroid patients should be doing to boost their metabolism.

To boost your metabolism you need to strike a balance between these two areas:​

High-Intensity Interval Training

This type of exercise (if done correctly) puts a physiologic stimulus at the biochemical level that causes a number of beneficial changes:

  1. It improves hormonal balance overall
  2. It sensitizes your body to insulin
  3. It causes more calorie burn than any other exercise
  4. It helps build lean muscle mass
  5. It boosts your metabolism by increasing Human Growth Hormone (6)

As you know, if you have thyroid problems, crushing fatigue can make it seem impossible to exercise at times. So, there are a few things you should remember before you start exercising:

join 80000 thyroid patients

Before you add high-intensity interval training into your regimen make sure your thyroid medication is optimized (if you are on it) and make sure your adrenals can tolerate the stress. 

If you are still experiencing crushing fatigue it’s best to focus on low-intensity and skip high-intensity exercise in the beginning. 

Low-Intensity Interval Training

This type of exercise should not be excluded! Science has shown that 1 hour of walking per day is enough to reduce your risk of ​premature death by 39%. 

Not only will it help you live longer but it is also critical to boosting and maintaining your metabolism. 

You’ll want to focus on doing one of the following for at least 30-60 minutes per day, in addition to walking 10,000 steps per day: 

  1. Walking
  2. Hiking
  3. Biking
  4. ​Household chores (Sweeping, Mopping, Cleaning Windows, etc.)
  5. Yoga
  6. Swimming

Don’t overthink this:

The goal here is to keep you moving constantly throughout the day. 

Bonus tip: ​Cycle Synching your Exercise Routine

Have you heard of cycle synching your workouts? 

Let me explain:

Throughout a woman’s cycle, her hormone levels fluctuate on a daily basis (I’m sure you know this already!), but what you may not know is that these hormones can influence your energy levels, metabolism, appetite and even your desire for exercise.

Follicular Phase Exercises: Days 1-14

For instance – at the beginning of your cycle you will have more energy as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone are in relative balance with one another. This means that you should focus on moderate intensity and longer workouts. 

graph showing when ovulation starts
​Ovulatory Phase Exercises: Days 12-16

Compare that to the ovulatory phase when testosterone levels peak and estrogen is increased – you will have the power and energy to do more strenuous exercise like lifting weights or doing high-intensity exercises. 

graph showing the elevation and fall of various hormones during the menstrual cycle
​Luteal Phase Exercises: Days 14-28

On the final two weeks of your cycle progesterone levels should peak which has a very calming sensation on your body – during this time you should focus on more relaxing and soothing exercises like yoga, pilates or lower intensity exercises. ​

Cycle synching exercises

Replete Nutrient Deficiencies with Targeted Supplements

supplements lined up on a shelf

​The focus of supplements during this 10-Day Thyroid Reset is to boost the conversion of inactive T4 to the active T3 hormone. 

This is accomplished by providing your body with the critical nutrients involved in the conversion process, and also by improving gut health which is involved in both converting thyroid hormone and acting as a reservoir (7) for stored thyroid hormone in the body. 

In addition, I’ve never found a person in my clinic who isn’t suffering from Adrenal fatigue to some degree due to the constant low-grade stress that we all deal with on a daily basis. 

Healing your adrenals will help the thyroid do its job and provide you with a boost of energy during this 10-day reset.

The following supplements have been tested on hundreds of patients with thyroid problems in my clinic and they are far and away the most potent and powerful supplements that I’ve used. 

​Adrenal Support

​Healing Adrenal Fatigue is such a huge part of treating the thyroid that it simply cannot be overlooked. 

The adrenals and the thyroid work in synergy to create your energy levels and your baseline metabolism. We’ve known this as far back as the 1920s (8). 

Further studies have shown that Hypothyroidism causes direct dysfunction (9) in the Adrenal Glands themselves – resulting in symptoms of fatigue which may manifest as the condition of “adrenal fatigue”. 

study showing the connection between tsh and cortisol

My experience in working with patients is that healing the Adrenals is required in order to achieve optimal results. I’ve also found that all other supplements and treatment seem to be more effective when also targeting the adrenals. 

Zinc

Zinc is one of the top 5 most common nutrient deficiencies I see in patients suffering from Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s.

If you’re curious about the other 4 nutrient deficiencies you can read about them here

This nutrient is involved in converting inactive T4 to the active T3 thyroid hormone in addition to a number of other beneficial side effects:

  1. Zinc boosts immune function (10) (Especially helpful for those with Hashimoto’s).
  2. Zinc is a powerful anti-inflammatory (11) agent.
  3. Zinc boosts cell-mediated immunity (12) helping to reduce autoimmunity.
  4. And finally, Zinc plays a role in reducing oxidative stress (13) and chronic inflammation. 
Zinc is an Antioxidant and Anti Inflammatory Agent

Using Zinc is a no-brainer when you have any sort of thyroid problem and should be a pivotal part of your nutrient regimen! 

Using the right type of Zinc and getting on the right brand is very important.

Remember that not all supplements are created equal, because of this I recommend using either zinc-picolinate or zinc-citrate because these have been shown to have superior absorption (14) compared to other cheaper formulations. 

Zinc tends to work well when coupled with Selenium (more on Selenium below) due to how they both work in your thyroid gland. 

Because of this, I recommend a product which contains both Zinc and Selenium. 

Selenium

Selenium is another important player in the T4 to T3 conversion process as well as the creation of thyroid hormone in your thyroid gland. 

Selenium forms a portion of the certain enzymes that catalyze the production of thyroid hormone. 

These proteins are known as selenoproteins and they are in several areas of the body. 

Without adequate levels of Selenium (and Zinc), these proteins may not work properly which may lead to decreased circulating thyroid hormone and decreased thyroid conversion. 

(This picture clearly depicts the nutrients required for proper T4 to T3 conversion and optimal thyroid function – The 10 Day Thyroid Reset targets all of these areas to help heal your metabolism and boost thyroid function)

Selenium (like zinc) is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and, when supplemented in healthy doses, may help reduce autoimmunity and inflammatory mediators (15). 

This is super important for all hypothyroid patients!

Why?

Because it’s estimated that over 70-90% of patients with Hypothyroidism in the United States have an autoimmune thyroiditis, whether your antibodies are elevated or not.

Let me say that again because it is so important…

If you have hypothyroidism there is a 70-90% chance it is caused by an autoimmune disease.

study showing selenium can help improve thyroid function

That is why I recommend that Hypothyroid patients undergo a trial of selenium supplementation.

This trial may help to promote more thyroid hormone, may help reduce autoimmunity and even antibody levels (16), and carries a very low risk of causing any harm. 

Couple that with the fact that it may help boost T4 to T3 conversion (17) and Selenium supplementation becomes a no-brainer for almost all thyroid patients. 

*Note: selenium tends to provide superior results when combined with zinc, for this reason, I recommend using them together in 1 supplement.

Probiotics​

Undiagnosed gut imbalances are probably the most overlooked and underdiagnosed conditions found among thyroid patients.

And this is a terrible situation, considering the importance the Gut plays in thyroid hormone metabolism. 

How Nutrient Deficiencies and Gut Imbalances Stack up Against You

Let me give you an example of how this can all stack up against you:

  1. If 20% of Thyroid Hormone is converted in the gut (18) and you have a gut imbalance (SIBO, Yeast overgrowth, Reflux, Dysbiosis, Leaky Gut, etc.) then the inflammation from this condition may limit your conversion process by 5-10%.
  2. If you have Zinc or Selenium deficiencies in your body that can further reduce whole-body conversion by another 5-10%.
  3. Now let’s assume you have Insulin Resistance, Leptin Resistance or that you take Anti-Depressants or other thyroid conversion-blocking medications. Now you’re set up to have another 5-10% reduction in conversion. 

Each of these alone wouldn’t make a big difference, but, when you start stacking them up, all of a sudden you have a 15-30% (or more) reduction in T4 to T3 conversion in your entire body!

This doesn’t even take into account the fact that inflammatory conditions (like Insulin and leptin resistance) cause Thyroid Resistance at the cellular level.

So, not only can your body not convert the inactive T4 to T3, but now it has trouble even letting what little active T3 is in the body get inside the cells to do its job. ​

This is why you simply cannot ignore nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, or gut imbalances.

Most Common Gut Imbalances in Thyroid Patients​

Thyroid patients are susceptible to a number of gut imbalances because of how thyroid hormone functions in the gut.

Thyroid hormone helps increase intestinal peristalsis (19) (the natural movement of the gut) and it also helps the body regulate the amount of stomach acid (20) needed for digestion. 

study showing the connection between the thyroid and the gut

If you have low thyroid problems you’re now set up to develop gut imbalances…

The most common imbalances I see in Hypothyroid and Hashimoto’s patients include Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), Yeast overgrowth (21), Acid Reflux/GERD (22), Intestinal Dysbiosis, Leaky Gut, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

I’ve found that unless these imbalances are treated your thyroid will NOT function at 100%.

That’s why I’ve included some basic gut health recommendations in this Thyroid Reset Diet.

The Best Probiotics for Hypothyroidism

Because certain gut imbalances are so common in Hypothyroid patients I don’t recommend jumping into any random probiotic to try and improve your health.

Certain types of probiotics are better than others and certain strains of probiotics have been well-studied and shown to be effective in clinical studies. 

Hypothyroid patients tend to benefit from probiotics that meet the following criteria:

  • They contain several different species and strains of probiotics
  • They contain a high enough CFU or ‘dose’
  • They contain both bifidobacteria and lactobacilli species
  • They are packaged properly to maintain stability and efficacy (they need to be in the right type of containers to protect against probiotic degradation)

If you stick to these guidelines then you can be sure you are getting a high-quality probiotic and one that will actually be effective. 

The right probiotic may help improve your intestinal tract (23), reduce inflammation (24) and even promote weight loss

Renew Your Body By Detoxing

Detoxing doesn’t just refer to chemicals and toxins (though I will teach you how to do this!), but it also refers to removing negative thoughts and emotions which have a huge impact on your overall health.

​Did you know there is a magic number of happy emotions you need to have for every negative emotion to really thrive in life? 

The answer is 3:1.

how many positive emotions you need to have each day to be happy

You need to have three positive emotions for every negative emotion. ​

The point is:

Toxic emotions, toxic chemicals, toxic behaviors, whatever it is, they matter and they have a negative impact on your health.

If you don’t remove these toxins from your body you will NOT optimize your health. ​

​Detoxing Endocrine Disruptors and Chemicals

​Whether you realize this or not, your body comes into contact with chemicals that have to be eliminated by your liver on a DAILY basis. 

What’s worse is that many of these chemicals ​have been shown to negatively impact hormone levels by blocking the effect of hormones at the cellular level or by mimicking the actions of hormones in your body. 

These chemicals are known as Endocrine Disruptors and they may be seriously impacting your thyroid function. ​

In fact…

The Endocrine Society recently published a paper (25) outlining the list of chemicals that are known endocrine disruptors.

study showing the importance of endocrine disrupting chemicals on thyroid function

The scary part is that they recognize in their paper that these chemicals alter thyroid function at the cellular level (causing tissue-level hypothyroidism) lowering free T3 levels, but the chemicals don’t impact TSH levels. 

This means that if your doctor is only ordering TSH and Free T4 then they are not getting a complete picture of your thyroid function. ​

​The main bad guys you want to avoid include:

  • Bisphenol A
  • Phthalates
  • Pesticides
  • Persistent Organic Pollutants (Polychlorinated biphenyls) 
  • Polybrominated Diethyl Ethers

​Use these tips to ensure you don’t even come into contact with these chemicals: 

  • Stop touching Receipts (they contain high levels of bisphenol-A)
  • Drink out of glass cups or containers
  • Drink filtered water ONLY (any filter is better than no filter)
  • Avoid anything made of plastic
  • Say no to hand-me-down plastic toys
  • Eat organic foods and grass-fed meats
  • Avoid anything with the word ‘Fragrance’ or ‘Parfum’
  • Check your cosmetics for Chemicals (use the Skin Deep application from EWG)

​Helpful Tips to Make the Thyroid Reset Diet More Effective

One of the best ways to make this reset a success is to find an accountability buddy to help keep you on track!

You can make a commitment (as a comment here) or find someone else to do it with you and, by doing this, you will have publicly committed yourself. 

When you make a commitment public you are much more likely to follow through!

I also have other resources for you, which you can find more info about below: 

I’m always updating this post, so if I left something out or you have more questions please comment below and I will do my best to answer

At the end of your 10 days, you should notice a change in your energy levels, how well your brain is functioning and a change in your waistline. And that is by design!

Now I want to hear from you:

Did you use this guide? Did it help you?

Are you planning on using it?

Is anything confusing?

What’s holding you back?

Leave your questions or comments below! 

Scientific References

#1. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21276278

#2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6694559

#3. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6694559

#4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17341711

#5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21745527

#6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12137178

#7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3049061

#8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1524572/?page=1

#9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15007197

#10. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9701160

#11. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4429650/

#12. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20150599

#13. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4429650/

#14. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3630857

#15. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2721352/

#16. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23046013

#17. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8834378

#18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3049061

#19. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2833301/

#20. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20351569

#21. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3163673/

#22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3929142/

#23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16148529

#24. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5490534/

#25. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26414233

how to reset your thyroid to get back on track

picture of westin childs D.O. standing

About Dr. Westin Childs

Hey! I'm Westin Childs D.O. (former Osteopathic Physician). I don't practice medicine anymore and instead specialize in helping people like YOU who have thyroid problems, hormone imbalances, and weight loss resistance. I love to write and share what I've learned over the years. I also happen to formulate the best supplements on the market (well, at least in my opinion!) and I'm proud to say that over 80,000+ people have used them over the last 7 years. You can read more about my own personal health journey and why I am so passionate about what I do.

P.S. Here are 4 ways you can get more help right now:

#1. Get my free thyroid downloads, resources, and PDFs here.

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145 thoughts on “Thyroid Reset – 4 Ways to Get Your Thyroid Back on Track”

    • Hey Sarah,

      Great question. During this 10 day period I would recommend that you stay away from rice. It’s not that I am against rice, but in general I’ve found that most patients who see me have some degree of insulin resistance. Because of this I make the recommendation to avoid it for a short period of time before reintroducing to back into your diet. When you reintroduce this food group make sure to watch your GI function closely! If you experience bloating, gas or distention that is a sign you may have unresolved gut imbalances that need attention.

      Good luck!

      Reply
      • Dr. Childs, how about organic brown rice? Brown rice contains selenium which is one of the vitamins you suggested to lower the TPO-antibodies.

        Reply
        • Hey W,

          I would recommend using selenium supplementation. The guide is not tailored to specific individuals, but I’ve found many people to be insulin resistant and for that reason I take it out of this diet. It may be something that many people can tolerate and add back in, but initially I would advise against it.

          Reply
  1. Would you recommend the same supplements if being treated with Armour rather than Synthroid or Levothroid?
    What is recommended for constipation? System is very slow and doesn’t work normally. Need to take lots of things to get any bowel movement. Mirilax, stool softeners, Docsulate, Milk of Magnesia, even Ex-Lax occasionally. Very uncomfortable. Food does not seem to digest and break down properly. Thanks.

    Reply
    • Hey J,

      In general the recommendations would remain the same regardless of the medication that you are taking. Just make sure that you monitor your body closely as you make any changes 🙂

      Constipation is a serious issue! I plan to write a long post about this in the future. For now I would recommend the following: Aim for 1 bowel movement per day. In order to achieve this I would use magnesium citrate (200-2000mg at night) in combination with sodium ascorbate or ascorbic acid (1000-2000mg per day), titrate this until you have one loose bowel movement per day.

      You may be right in that your body is having difficulty digesting food. If you believe that is the problem I would consider using digestive enzymes in combination with probiotics (use soil based organisms like prescript assist). But realize that you may have other gut imbalances that need to be treated and these supplements may improve the symptoms but not treat the underlying cause.

      Let me know if you have any further questions!

      Reply
      • Chew your food well, the body supplies lots of different enzymes at each stage of digestion, beginning when we put food into the mouth until the food leaves the body through the bowel. Don’t drink at the mealtime as it dilutes the digestive enzymes that are trying to digest the food. Drink between meals leaving at least half an hour approximately after eating or before eating again.When drinking water, it is not food. The minute any beverage other than water is consumed, it is food. Hope this helps. Relax at mealtime .

        Reply
  2. Just tried to get the PDF after reading this twice so I could take further notes, and I even confirmed my subscription, but no PDF.

    Reply
    • Hey Maggie,

      Thanks for the question!

      Beans have been removed initially because they are highly fermentable by intestinal bacteria and can cause problems in those with gut imbalances. SIBO and yeast overgrowth are particularly common in hypothyroid and hashimoto’s patients and for that reason I don’t recommend that patients start with them initially.

      I am a huge fan of beans as a source of nutrients, though – but only in patients that can tolerate them! Depending on your digestive tract I would remain off of beans and legumes for at least 3 weeks before re-introducing them. And pay close attention as you reintroduce them to see how your gut tolerates it.

      Reply
      • When you say pay close attention as you reintroduce them to see how your gut tolerates them, what exactly do you mean?
        When I eat beans & legumes I get a lot of gas. I thought that was a normal side effect of those foods. I don’t get bloating or constipation ever.

        thanks

        Reply
        • Gas and/or bloating are not normal after eating those foods. They usually indicate bacterial overgrowth in the setting of hypothyroidism.

          Reply
  3. Hello! I am on Armour and Cytomel, as my rT3 was elevated. I have hypothyroid not caused by Hashimoto’s and am on supplements to deal with high cortisol and estrogen dominance. I am working with my doctor to address these issues. Things seem to be leveling out over these past few months, but I still cannot lose all the weight I gained. I lost a lot of weight with a ketogenic diet with an average of 1200 calories, but quickly regained 35 pounds with no change in diet or activity level. Could following the diet recommended help aid in weight loss?

    Reply
    • Hey Allie,

      It really depends on the person and without knowing you personally I wouldn’t be able to say for sure. This is a very healthy diet for anyone with Thyroid problems, but it won’t be a miracle cure for weight loss in every individual.

      Losing weight is primarily about balancing your hormones, not about “dieting”. This guide is designed to optimize thyroid function, help you reduce symptoms however it may also cause weight loss in some people.

      If you are primarily concerned with weight loss I would check out these articles:
      http://www.restartmed.com/lose-weight-hypothyroidism/
      http://www.restartmed.com/lose-weight-hashimotos/

      Reply
    • Hey W,

      They shouldn’t, but every individual is unique. If you have an allergy to eggs or a component of eggs it could theoretically cause issues.

      Reply
      • Dr. Childs,

        I was on the gluten free diet for a month and included organic eggs as part of my diet, and I felt fine after eating them. However, because my TPO-antibodies was exceptionally high (14K), it was suggested to me that I should change my diet to autoimmune paleo diet, which means no eggs. Does your center have food sensitive test(s) that can determine the type of foods that I’m sensitive to which could possibly cause inflammation?

        Reply
      • Dr. Childs,

        I’m just reading your blog post on Pinterest. I see I’m about 2 years late. I find it very very on point. I’m recently diagnosed with hypothyroidism and Candida overgrowth. I’m sure I have some sort of digestive issues as well….. I was in the hospital eleven times for pancreatitis between June 2015 and July 2016 which I think may be where all this began….I’ve done countless hours of research and a lot of it coincides with other articles of a similar subject. Yours gives me hope…you make it sound doable…whereas most other recommendations are overwhelming with tons of restrictions…which is stressful…most days I just cry because it’s too much…I’m on levothyroxine and I am taking acidophilus as well as a new supplement called Pau ‘D Arco. I have developed an extreme yeast infection on my scalp and my hair is falling out….I’m completely at a breaking point….please please help me…
        Thanks
        Whitney W
        35
        Texas

        Reply
  4. found this very interesting reading, ive just had my dosage increase to from 150g to 175g of levothyroxine, just feel so tired all the time joints really aching, dropping things or cant grip the way I used to with my hands, I work part time and can wait to get home, if I didn’t need to go out I would be quite happy in the house all day, feeling bit depressed theres no reason that I should but cant seem to shake it off, I go to slimming world which is all about healthy eating but for the last year I just cant seem to lose weight, feeling so frustrated xx

    Reply
  5. you say no low carb diet. but isnt that what your diet is ? HFLC since we eat no starch carbs but rely on vegetables to get carbs

    Reply
    • Hey Pam,

      Great question! In this article when I refer to staying away from low carb diets I mean nutritional ketosis and/or calorie restricted very low carbohydrate diets where 5-10% of your calories are from carbs.

      In general getting carbohydrates from vegetables sources is sufficient for the majority of hypothyroid patients, with the goal of getting around 15-30% of calories from healthy sources of carbohydrates.

      I typically don’t recommend ketosis type diets in the setting of extreme adrenal fatigue and/or an under treated thyroid. Since most patients are suffering from 1 or both of these conditions I recommend against these types of diets initially (again referring to VERY low carbohydrate diets and/or nutritional ketosis). This diet is low carb when compared to the standard american diet, but it has been battle tested on hundreds of hypothyroid patients and I know that it works well.

      It’s also important to remember that each person will need a different diet, and figuring out what your body needs is a process of trial and error. This is simply a starting guide.

      Reply
  6. Thank you for this 10 day plan. I am now on day 18 and plan to continue for another week. I have not lost any significant weight but am thankful that it help me accomplish some nutritional goals. I did not think it would be possible for me to eliminate all artificial sweeteners frm my diet,but T have. I feel really great about that. This also made me aware of how much soy I was consuming! Yikes! It is in everything! So, soy has also been completely eliminated. I am hoping to see some weight loss of I press on! Thank you for all the information!

    Reply
  7. Thank you! I’ll review ur article every now and then. I have a hypoechic solid nodules in both thyroid lobe but normal size thyroid gland. Please advise so it will not increase in size 1.68. No rice it really keeps me bloated. Thank you for the info.

    Reply
  8. I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer 10yrs ago so my thyroid was completely removed so I’ve been on synthroid ever since. I suffer from extreme fatigue and joint pain and have gained almost 40 pounds that no matter what i do i can’t seem to lose no matter what! Do you think this diet will help me? If i could get rid of the fatigue and aches i know í could lose the weight because I’ll become more active and motivated! Anything you suggest will be so helpful…

    Reply
  9. Hello,

    I have type 1 diabetes and hypothyroidism. Would any of these supplements affect my diabetes? What is your stance on iodine supplementation? Some people have had great success using an iodine protocol. Also, what is your opinion of vegetarian and vegan diets on thyroid health?

    Reply
    • Hey Vanessa,

      They shouldn’t affect your diabetes, but each patient is different so monitor your glucose levels and hgb A1c closely. If anything they would improve your control.

      Iodine supplementation can be effective, and it depends on the patient. When I start it I always use selenium concurrently and only if I get signs that the body is deficient or lab tests show they are deficient.

      Vegetarian and vegan diets can theoretically impair thyroid function though I’ve never actually clinically seen that to be the case. I would rather patients eat tons of vegetables and let me deal with any goitrogenic issues as they arise, rather than having patients fear vegetables and avoid them completely. The chances of goitrogens affecting thyroid function is very slim in most patients.

      Reply
  10. Thank you so much for your articles and this reset program. A few questions: On this reset can we eat any raw veggies (non-goitrogens)? How about organic grassfed beef/pork? Also, when monitoring basal temps, is a low temp acceptable (under 97 F.) as long as it’s steady? Age 63, I have Hashimoto’s, I’m on Armour, feeling great as far as hypo symptoms but weight won’t budge.

    Reply
    • Hey Addie,

      This diet represents generic guidelines for people who don’t know where to start.

      If you know your body and you know you do well on raw veggies, then by all means eat them. The same is true for grass fed beef and pork.

      As long as you are asymptomatic, have great energy and no hypothyroid symptoms then I’m happy. Your body temp could be low for a number of other reasons (including a thermometer that is inaccurate!), so as long as you are asymptomatic I wouldn’t worry about it.

      Lastly, your weight may not budge because of other hormone imbalances – including low estrogen from menopause/low progesterone levels or insulin resistance.

      Reply
    • Hey Chrisanthy,

      It just means that the body is sweating profusely (sweat dripping off of the body). How to get there depends on the person, I usually recommend FAR IR sauna + niacin.

      Reply
  11. Hi doc,
    Thank you for the great post
    My wife’s hormonal levels are like this
    Tsh-4.18
    Ft3-2.71
    Ft4-1.02
    Total T3-115
    Total T4-8.3
    She has symptoms of hypothyroidism and has been gaining weight and many other symptoms…
    What would be the best drug to prescribe for her… Coz I am not sure about the doctors will prescribe right drugs after watching the Lab results.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hey Sam,

      She will probably do best on a medication containing T3 like liothyronine or natural dessicated thyroid.

      Reply
  12. Thanks for the article! I am on day 6 of the 10 day reset. Couple questions- at the end of 10 days, what changes can I expect to see? How do I know if I should stay on it longer? Also, how do you know when you can re-introduce other foods? Last, is there a hierarchy of foods to start with when you bring them back into your diet. Thanks so Much!
    Amanda

    Reply
    • Hey Amanda,

      You should stay on it longer if you notice a reduction in your symptoms. In some people it won’t be as effective unless you are also being treated with the right dose and type of thyroid medication, but you should still notice a reduction in your symptoms.

      Reply
  13. Hi Dr. Childs,

    I was dx with Hashimotos & had a total thyroidectomy last week due to suspicious nodules. Pathology results still pending & waiting to see if I will need radiation tx. When would be a good time to start on your program? Not sure where to begin being so fresh post op.

    thanks.

    Reply
    • Hey Sonya,

      The sooner the better. Most patients are under treated after thyroidectomy with levothyroxine (T4 only medications). I would wait to see what is going on with your path reports and then make a decision at that point. Good luck!

      Reply
  14. After the 10 days, how do you eat? Do you reintroduce foods? Do you do that in a specific order? Do you never eat certain foods again? I almost feel like I need a professional living with me, preparing my food, and giving me proper supplements in order to be successful! I’m frustrated!

    Reply
    • If the diet doesn’t help improve your symptoms after 1 month then your problem isn’t with the diet it’s with something else: usually being under dosed or being treated with the wrong medication. If weight loss is your goal, and you don’t lose weight with this diet you will need further intervention.

      Reply
  15. I am currently taking synthroid 100mcg and a Vita chewable because I stopped eating dairy. Are these ok to take with your recommended supplements? Should I stop taking the chewable vitamins? Thank you!

    Reply
  16. This was such a great read! My question is if all my thyroid levels were normal but my antibodies were extremely high, would you suggest still doing everything in the first part of the article (diet, 10,000 steps supplements etc) also do you think you would prescribe thyroid meds for that situation! Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Hey Kelsey,

      If patients are symptomatic with elevated antibody levels then I do generally recommend treatment. And, yes you should still do those things.

      Reply
  17. Hello

    I’m wondering why the diet suggest no beans & legumes. I understand no peanuts/peanut butter (goitrogens) but no beans? I usually eat beans for protein.

    Can you recommend a doctor in South Florida who can work with high reverse T3?
    I’m not on any medications and have not been diagnosed with hypothyroidism but my Reverse T3 is 21.

    thanks

    Reply
    • Hey Natalie,

      I don’t know any Doctors in that area.

      Beans and legumes tend to react in hypothyroid patients due to concomitant SIBO/yeast overgrowth syndromes.

      Reply
  18. Thank you so much for the helpful information at your website. It is the most thorough I have seen.
    Can’t wait to try some of the suggestions.
    I started with a new D.O. and he did a complete blood panel. I have hypothyroid with weight gain
    that I cannot get rid of. I exercise daily and don’t typically eat more than 1000 to 1200 calories a day.
    Have a feeling my t3 is too low.
    Again thank you for the information at this site.

    Reply
    • Hey Joan,

      You are welcome! I write every post so that it is the most detailed article on the subject (at least thats my intent). Good luck with your new physician!

      Reply
  19. Hello, just wondering if this might be suitable for me as I’m a bit complicated, because, as well as hypothyroidism, I also have type 1 diabetes(42years), Addison’s disease, Adult growth hormone defficiency, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue? Would be grateful for ANY advice, as my consultant told me ten years ago, “this is best you are going to get”. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hey Buffy,

      Unfortunately I can’t provide specific medical advice, but I can tell you that you will most likely need much more than just this blog post. These changes are a good first place to start (assuming you haven’t made them yet), but with the amount of hormonal imbalance you have you will likely need more intensive care and follow up.

      Reply
  20. I notice that sweet potatoes and carrots aren’t on the list of foods to eat but have seen them on some other food lists for hashimotos. Should these be avoided for any reason? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hey Kristen,

      If you tolerate them you can certainly add them, there is no one-size-fits all diet for everyone I’ve just provided a place to start.

      Reply
  21. Hi! As a vegetarian I was wondering where should I get my protein during the “cleanse” if all legumes, grains and soy is forbidden? I rely on those sources for my daily protein so I am quite lost if I kick them out of my diet, for a while at least.
    Thank you! 🙂

    Reply
    • Hey Anna,

      I guess I would ask why are you doing the cleanse to begin with? if it’s for weight loss then there are much better ways to go about it.

      Reply
  22. Hello,
    I am researching how to increase t3 levels since my natural path wants to put me on thyroid medication (the one from pigs). She said that I could go on it and off whenever my levels increased a bit more.

    I am currently pregnant (20 weeks along) and wondering if the supplements you suggest are safe during pregnancy (zinc, selenium, adrenal support…)?

    My T3 is averaging 2.2-2.5 and my tsh and T4 are both normal. From what I have researched on my own it seems drastic to jump towards thyroid medication with these lab results. Any thoughts on what you think should be a normal T3 at this point of pregnancy?

    How about using rhodiola rosea during pregnancy?

    In your diet you did not list any red meat as being okay. Does that mean you should not eat venison or elk?

    I have some type of autoimmune condition and eat a very clean diet (no wheat, dairy, soy, corn…)I also have SIBO but symptoms have improved since becoming pregnant.
    Thank-you so much for your insight!

    Reply
  23. I am interested in buying the supplements you listed, but I was wondering if it would be fine to use them longer than the ten days. For example,would it be safe to use them until they are gone?

    Reply
  24. I also have tried to download the PDF and it hasn’t come through. Can you please send it to me? Thanks. Also, what are the next steps after the 10 day detox?

    Reply
  25. I am just now getting on Synthroid and Cytomel Combo. I am going to try these supplements along with this diet. I have Reactive Hypoglycemia so I use beans to keep fiber in my diet as alot of fiber is good for the RH. I am excited to see if following this and taking the beans out along with these supplements you recommended(purchased them all) will make a difference. My question is can i continue the supplements or do I just take them for the 10 day period? Do you have any recommendations for Reactive hypoglycemia?

    Reply
  26. First of all, Thank You for all this!! I have just recently been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, but have been suffering (and still suffering) from it for years. My question is: I have torn my rot. cuff so how much of a difference would it make in your program to have to cut out a great deal of high intensity workouts you suggest?

    Reply
  27. Hiya, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism about 6 years ago ( they figure I had it long before then but no one caught it). It was not until just last year that I was told the cause of it is hashimotos. I have a very aggressive hashimotos and my doctor has me on only synthroid. I have asked multiple times to be tested more in depth but he says my symptoms are just a result of depression ( I have 4 littles kids and little time to myself) I know I am not depressed.. I really just want to feel like a human again and be able to lose the baby weight, but am feeling a little lost this article is a great read, but I am wondering if this is ok to do while breastfeeding or if I should wait until I am no longer nursing?

    Reply
    • Hey Rosalina,

      I wouldn’t make any changes, take any supplements, etc. if you are nursing without first consulting with your physician.

      Reply
  28. What would be a good breakfast to have on the 10 day thyroid diet, I would normally have something with milk, are you allowed to have home made cashew or almond milk, also I’m unsure how to fit in all the protein options as it says 3 servings plus snacks. B

    Reply
  29. This was a great post. I have been suffering from Hypothyroidism for over 2 years. The first year and half the doctors did not put me on medication. I gained 20 lbs that do not seem to come off even with Zumba, Pilates, Walks and what not. Its difficult to motivate myself to even try. Anyhoo.. Looks like this is back to basics for me. Feeling inspired. Hope I stick through 10 days to feel better. Thanks!

    Reply
  30. Hi,
    thanks a lot for doing this articles. I am not english native speaker and I am just trying to find out, how it is with hypothyroism, my husband has higher level of TSH 6,63 mlU/l, normal FT4 12,8 qmol/l and higher AB/TPO 242 IU/ml. And cholesterol 6,58 mmol/l (LDL 4,88). I suppose it´s Hashimoto´s. The problem is that his endocrinologist said him almost nothing about this, just only recommendes the pills for treatment (for his whole life). I would like to know, if there is hope to deal with this without drugs and heal it in natural way, I think in our republic don´t exist the doctors with other point of view – just only the pills… it would be very encouraging to know that there is other way. Unfortunatelly in our country are not so available this information (in our language) so I am slowly trying to find out something about this in English – that means more time because of translation 🙂
    So thank you very much once again.

    Reply
    • Hey Katerina,

      You are very welcome! I hope you find it helpful and I hope the translation process isn’t too much of an issue, but thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment.

      Reply
  31. Hi Dr. Childs,
    I have been diagnosed with Hypo. My story is that the pills they gave me made me feel worse so i stopped taking them. I was on a keto diet and it helped a bit but then the symptoms came back (during this time i took spupplements, Selenium, zinc, B vitamins, etc). I did a 40 day fast on smoothies and by the end of it all of my hypo symptoms went away. I started eating again (everything and gained the weight back), now i’m a vegan but the symptoms are worse. I don’t know what is going on. What should i do? Thinking about doing another 40 day fast but i can’t keep that up, i have to eat to survive. I feel lost. Thank you for any advice you could give me. (I am also allergic to gluten)

    Reply
    • Hey Cristina,

      It’s impossible to say what is going on without lab work. I would consider a full hormone evaluation including sex hormones and insulin/leptin.

      Reply
  32. Thank you so much for this! I am going to start today. I’m thinking I should stop taking my current multi vitamin because I don’t want to overdo it on the selenium (and my multi has zinc oxide), but then I’m concerned about not taking enough of the others that aren’t in the ones you recommend. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  33. Hi Dr. Childs! I just found your website yesterday and have been devouring all the information. Thank you for your detail and sharing such helpful information. How do I get your 10 Day Thyroid Reset diet you talk about in this post? I don’t see a link. Am I missing it somehow? Thank you!

    Reply
  34. Thank you so much for this and all your resources. I just completed this 10 day reset protocol and I dropped 5 pounds which feels like a small miracle considering it has been impossible for me to lose weight in the past two years and whenever I have tried to lose weight since my hypo diagnosis it has just pushed my weight up even further. One question though…the first few days I felt awesome….then my energy levels crashed (about day 4 of the protocol) but I stuck it out….and like I said there was significant weight loss, but it seemed some of my hypo symptoms intensified, especially fatigue…..any thoughts?
    Day 11 – after completing the protocol. I added back in some clean grains (i.e. Organic, gluten free, unprocessed) and some more fruit, etc and it seems to help my energy level some, but I’m still dragging. Do you think I may have swung too low carb for my body?

    Reply
    • Where did you find the guide for the 10 day reset protocol? I am unable to find anything with the information and the link that I tried won’t open or download. Thank you.

      Reply
  35. Dear Dr. Childs,

    First of all, thank you for all of the good work and information you are providing in your pages. I’ve been devouring all of it for the past week!

    I’ve been struggling for over 10 years with thyroid levels and it’s symptoms — weight gain/inability to lose weight, chronic joint issues & some muscle contractions, irregular cycles, depression + all of the other goodies that come with hypothyroidism. So very frustrating, especially because I diligently work to be healthy in diet & exercise. I’ve been eating well for years now + I incorporated slow intense resistance training a couple of years ago, but with yet another recent dip/depression/joint pain/weight gain, I finally committed to a LCHF diet. (I so enjoy the Mediterranean plate, it was difficult for me to give up all that farmers offer, esp. grains & fruit!)

    Unfortunately, nothing on the scale has budged and I still don’t feel right. So, I’m regrouping again & going in for more blood work to see if something has changed or if the levels are not optimal for me. (I hope & pray my doctor will listen!)

    I would love to download your 10-day pdf mentioned in this article, but I, too, are unable to do so. Would you mind forwarding the pdf? I’d be most grateful.

    Thank you!

    Reply
  36. Hi Dr Childs. Thank you for this informative site!
    I have learned a lot. I would like to ask your opinion on timing. I am currently on Nature-Throid 2 grains. My doctor just put me on T3 ( Cytomel) 5 mcg in addition to the 2 grains per day of Nature-Throid . Do most people have success taking the Cytomel together with the Nature in the morning? It was recommended I split the Nature dose (6am and 11am). but I am unsure about the Cytomel and the best time to take it. The only instruction given is to take it on an empty stomach.
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Antionette,

      Dosing is highly individual and there are probably no less than a dozen different ways to take thyroid medication.

      Reply
  37. I have had hypothyroidism for years and I have done research into my condition. I want to thank you for putting this together in a concise and easy to follow article. Well done. I wanted to ask if you have seen any correlation between hypo and vitamin d. Whenever my thyroid function drops I also have vitamin d deficiency. Have you found this to be the case as well? I also had a doctor recommend chromium piculate to help with energy boost. What are your thoughts on that? I would also like to ask what you would recommend now that I am in menopause I find my symptoms are worse the fatigue the mental fog and forgetfulness (is quite embarrassing).

    Reply
    • Hi Marie,

      Almost everyone has low Vitamin D3 because of sun screens and a general lack of sunlight, so it’s difficult to draw a conclusion because almost everyone I see has both hypothyroidism and low vitamin D.

      Reply
  38. Hi there,

    Just wondering where the actual plan is? or is it just the info on this page?

    I am a thyroidectomy patient d/t papillary thyroid carcinoma. I stumbled across your site in desperate search of finding a way to feel more ‘myself’ prior to having my thyroid out. I had my first surgery in 2014 when I was 18 followed by RAI treatment and 2 more sequential surgeries. I was a very petite girl before, since then I have gained about 35 pounds. I am hoping this will help me get back on track, and I have also looked into desiccated thyroid hormone, I just need to get my GP on board with me. If you have any supplementary information about either Cytomel (in addition to synthroid) or Armour (on its own) it would be greatly appreciated.

    Thanks in advanced,

    Kelty

    Reply
  39. Hello Dr. Childs! I loved your article. It reminded me of a similar article from Authority Nutrition, a source I absolutely adore. I wanted to know, with regards to your recommendations for HIIT, what you thought of the following quote from Healthline:

    Aerobic exercise appears to be very effective at increasing insulin sensitivity in people who are obese or have type 2 diabetes (31, 32, 33, 34).

    One study compared two groups. One performed sustained aerobic exercise, and the other performed high-intensity interval training.

    The study found that although both groups experienced improvements in fitness, only the group that performed sustained aerobic activity experienced significantly lower insulin levels (34).

    End quote

    Thank you!

    Reply
  40. Dr
    I have hypothyroidism. Not overweight, exercise hard 3x a week, medically treating for high blood pressure, high cholesterol. Have been on hormones since 1993 when I had a complete hysterectomy. In trying to get off hormones, experienced hair loss. Conflicting doctor recommendations. I had a tia and one dr warms if I don’t get off hormones I’m in stroke risk from them. Another says you can’t do without it. There’s been one blood test after another, including on the liver,adrenal, etc. I had a lot of symptoms when I went cold turkey off the hormones, including fatigue, constopation, body inflammation. Very conscientious with my diet for years. Brought up on Mediterranean diet and continue with it. Have eliminated gluten, no processed foods. Take armour thyroid 120. I just don’t know what to do, stroke, hair loss and fatigue vs. staying on hormones. Low low t3. Thank you for any answers.

    Reply
  41. Hi Dr Childs!

    Thank you for this amazing information and for fighting for people to get to the bottom of their issues
    I’m still trying to get my diagnosis correct as it’s something in between of Adrenal Fatigue and low thyroid function‍♀️I have a 3.3 TSH with everything else normal (not been tested for reverse T3 though) and have been seeing a naturopath who has been super helpful, but we are still not 100% sure what I have
    May I ask why you don’t recommend multi vitamins?

    Thank you!

    Reply
  42. Hello Dr. Child’s,

    I have been dealing with hashimotos for a year now. I’ve seen two different endocrinologists and the only treatment that they have mentioned is levothyroxine doses. My antibodies are over 400 and my TSH is 19 and has only gone up over the year. I guess I’m just wondering why they might not have mentioned diet, supplements, and all of the other essential parts of this blog post?

    Reply
  43. Thank you for all your posts, super helpful! A question I do have…what to do about low sex drive? Like I mean non-existent. Do you have a post on that? Or any recommendations of supplements. I have had this for years and tho I’ve asked my doctors, they just skip over it. Please direct me. Thank you.

    Reply
  44. Question: I keep searching for something I can agree with. I love all your information. I however have hyperthyroidism and I’m wondering how your plan works with this? There’s not as much help for this. I currently take LDN (low dose naltrexone) which is an alternative to killing off my thyroid. My DR believes it’s more of an auto immune issue. Any helpful thoughts greatly appreciate.

    Reply
    • Hi Patrice,

      This particular program is designed for hypothyroid patients, not necessarily those with hyperthyroidism. Many of the therapies listed here will help with both conditions, though.

      Reply
  45. What about those of us that don’t have a thyroid anymore? Would this still be beneficial? I had a TT for cancer. Thanks!

    Reply
  46. Hi Dr. Childs,

    I had a total thyroidectomy should I follow this thyroid reset diet or would it be pointless having no thyroid to reset? I am so careful with my diet and I am at the gym doing classes four times per week. I mix it up two weight training classes (Bodypump) yoga and a combination class of yoga and Pilates. I walk also. My weight won’t budge. My thyroid levels are stable with Synthroid and Cytomel. I juice vegetables once per day and take selenium, magnesium, zinc, L-Tyrosine, B complex, EFA, probiotics. I wonder if I have insulin resistance. I’ve had no thyroid for ten years plus I’m turning 50 soon and it’s feeling impossible for my weight to budge

    Reply
    • Hi Jodi,

      Most of the information listed here is still relevant for those without a thyroid because T4 to T3 conversion is still important if you are taking T4 medication.

      Reply
  47. I was told I shouldn’t take Cytomel because I have CAD. Do your products work like Cytomel and are they safe for me to take?

    Vicki

    Reply
  48. Hi
    I wondering if these supplements help with raised cholesterol, particularly with high ldl level. I have had partial removal of thyroid and taking eltroxin.

    Reply
  49. My cardiologist put me on 25 MCG of Liothyronine SOD. I was already taking Levothyroxine 112. My hair started falling out at an alarming rate. Now he wants me to continue the Liothyronine and cut the Levothyroxine in half. I am very nervous. I worry if I keep losing my hair, it will never grow back.

    Reply
    • Hi Peggy,

      Generally, hair loss from liothyronine is temporary. I’ve written extensively about hair loss and thyroid function which you can read about here including tips on how to prevent hair loss: https://www.restartmed.com/thyroid-hair-loss/

      I would check out this article for more information which should be helpful for your situation!

      Reply
  50. I’m a 4 year papillary thyroid cancer survivor who is in desperate need of some guidance. I was diagnosed back in 2014, when they found a lump on the side of my neck, which later came back as a 4cm cancerous nodule. During my TT they removed that monster and some cancerous lymph-nodes. I was also told that they also removed my parathyroids, reconstructed them(whatever that means), and then put them back in.

    First of all, is the 10 Day Thyroid Reset Diet good for patients without a thyroid and who have to have both hyper and hypothyroidism, in order to suppress the cancerous tissue from regrowth? My last thyroid level check was back in May and my T3 Free was 2.90, my T4 Free was a 1.20 and my TSH at a 1.63.
    Secondly, my levels for insulin, estrogen, testosterone, leptin and cortisol have never been tested either. Here lately I’ve been to the point of exhaustion as I’ve never experienced before. It’s gotten so bad as to the point of falling and staying asleep all day, sometimes the whole weekend too. I use to work out 5 days a week, since last September, but had to stop a month ago, due to lack of energy and other symptoms.

    I also take my daily supplements of a scoop of super collagen, a 1/4 teaspoon of bulk supplement’s ascorbic acid powder, in the am and maybe an hour or two after I take my Synthroid and Cytomel. Upon reading it seems I shouldn’t take any calcium supplements til 4 hours after taking my thyroid meds. Is this true? Maybe this is the cause of my body feeling sooo tired and out of whack? I feel mustarding up energy, just to go potty, is quite the feat. I also supplement with Island Nature’s Ultra 30 Probiotics, ON Opti-Women MultiVitamins, Viva Naturals Krill Oil, over the counter Calcium 600mg with Vitamin D 3 800 IU and Glutamine, most of all which I take twice daily.

    My endocrinologist and primary care physician, both have ran my Thyroid levels and CBC panel, with no answer in sight, because all the tests come back “normal.” I am currently take Synthroid 137mcg in the morning, along with 5mcg of Cytomel. My endo just advised me to start taking my Cytomel tablet, in the afternoon, for an added boost of energy, that I have yet to feel.

    With all that being said could you recommend for me? I’m gasping for air, hoping I get pointed in the right direction. Thanks in advance and any response is greatly appreciated. Looking forward to hearing back from you soon! Good night and God bless.

    Reply
    • Hi Jeannie,

      It would probably be a good idea to check your total T3 and free T3 as these tend to correlate with thyroid status better than TSH.

      Reply
      • My endocrinologist finally got back to me. I sent her all the info, along with your websites, and she stated that everything from her end looks within range. It’s so annoying when doctors don’t listen to their patients. I thibkb we know a bit more about our bodies, especially when we feel something is off. So, I’ve since emailed my PCP with all your info and websites, so, now it’s another waiting game. I’m also looking into other doctors who have more knowledge about thyroid issues, in the Houston area.
        In your response, I thought free and total T3 were one in the same. So, instead of, looking at my TSH, T3 and T4, as whole, it’s better just to go off my T3, in cases like mine? Also, should I hold off in ordering your suggested supplements? Or should I just start somewhere? I’m also going to start the Paleo diet this coming Monday.
        Thanks for your medical advice. It’s all greatly appreciated.

        Reply
        • Hi Jeannie,

          The supplements and diet shouldn’t cause any negative effects so it would be reasonable to start with the therapies that you have control over.

          Reply
  51. Hi Dr. Childs.

    2 years ago my TSH was in upper normal range (4.9). But I had the symptoms (hair loss, cold sensitivity,…). When I started exercising my TSH went up drastically (up to 9), I also started to have trouble sleeping. I stooped exercising TSH went back to 4.9, sleep returned after some time. Exercise was very light, but looked like my body couldn’t handle it.
    When I started exercising again trying more slow approach – again my TSH almost doubled. My doctor put me on synthroid.
    I think he did based on numbers he saw (9).

    I am able to exercise now (a little). But none of my other symptoms have improved ( hair loss,…). And my T3 is very low (lower then before I started the meds!!!). It doesn’t seem to concern my doctor, because my TSH is normal. I think my T3 is low because I exercise. It was a case before, right?
    My cholesterol is border line now as well. So I do not know how to balance meds, exercise, food that I do not hurt my body instead of helping it? Any thoughts on my case?

    Appreciate your help,
    Lina

    Reply
  52. Hello Doctor Westin Childs. If we have mild hypthyroidism and follow 10 days strict diet and lifestyle you advised. Can we bring back thyroid to normal and cure this? Or is it something like we need to be on medication for lifetime?

    Reply
    • Hi Gina,

      Glad you found it helpful! I have over 260 articles on thyroid disease so there is plenty to read and learn 🙂

      Reply
  53. Your website Dr. Childs is by far the most comprehensive tool for us Thyroid folks, I have ever seen. With only this one article, I have a general idea of the course of treatment and I can be checking things as questions would rise for sure. This is a well of information for us!
    I do not see where I can search if somebody has asked this question before. This is my first attempt to ask you a question directly Dr. Westin and it is very important for me.
    Can you make recommendations whether or not stool tests should be utilized more than once to be re-evaluating a Young 12 years old Thyroid patient for her weight gain and some stomach issues like gas, discomfort/pain after eating and occasionally blood on the stool with a constipation? She was diagnosed with Graves disease in 2015, but we were able to bring the Thyroid function to normal with Lemon Balm, Bugleweed tinctures and Supplements. She has been with Normal Thyroid levels since September of 2017, except that she gained a lot of weight and I am concerned that she might be becoming HypoThyroid now. We are treated by an Endocrinology Professor at Children’s Hospital of Alabama and a Functional Medicine Doctor in Atlanta, Georgia. The FM doctor wants another stool test, which is quite expensive. I wanted to ask you about that since I have not heard you talking about doing stool tests at all for evaluating the Thyroid and/or other underlying issues.
    Thank You !

    Reply
  54. Your Web site is very, very Useful, Doctor Westin!
    I just tried to post a question, but I do not see it coming up. Is it possible that it is not taking any new questions or does it take time for the question to be posted on here?

    Reply
  55. You seem to have addressed hypo but I am hyper please give information addressing that issue – foods to eat and foods to stay away from etc.
    thanks

    Reply
  56. Hi there,
    I, unlike a lot of your patients, was born without a thyroid and take medication in replacement. Therefore my body produces no TS3 & TS4 naturally. Do you have any recommendations or amendments to this ten day diet which would more speicifically apply to me?

    Reply
    • Hi Laura,

      The principles are largely the same whether you have a thyroid or not because you still must take thyroid medication which is an exact replica of what your thyroid would make normally and that medication still must be converted just like it does in people with a thyroid gland. The only difference is that you need to be more aggressive with your thyroid hormone medication replacement compared to those people with a thyroid gland.

      Reply
    • Hi Ina,

      I wouldn’t say water is a therapy for Hashimoto’s but instead, that hydration is required for optimal health in general.

      Reply
  57. Hi Interesting article. You talk about Insulin resistance. As well as having had a Total Thyroidectomy I have been type 1 diabetic for over 40 years. I am unsure how to measure insulin in this case as I am sure I am bound to be insulin resistant. Please can you give me any information as to how to deal with TT and Type 1 diabetes. I am now taking T3 only but am not losing much weight. When I first added 2 x10mcg to my 100 T4 I did lose wait but felt anxious. I have gradually changed to T3 only. I may not be taking enough. I take 30mcg in two doses

    Reply
  58. Hi Dr. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis this February. I was taking mesalamine but only helped for a book and went back to symptoms. I found another doctor and I’m not taking mesalamine but he has me on probiotics, colostrum, and other supplements and just the same ir only helped a month and now back to showing symptoms. Bloody stool, constipated, watery stool with ball like stool. My thyroid was checked and turned out fine. Would you still recommend me those supplements or anything else. I want to help my gut and get my bowels back to normal.

    Reply
  59. Greetings Doctor, l did not read all the comments so l don’t know if this was addressed: my thyroid went haywire 1994 with graves and hashimotos. Around 2004 l was placed on levoxyl and currently take 75mcg per day. Is it too late for me to “heal”?

    Reply
    • Hi Kim,

      There’s a fairly high chance that you have some degree of permanent damage since you’ve had Hashimoto’s for a few decades.

      Reply

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