Author: Siddarth Goel

Ever stood up too fast and felt like the room was spinning? Or had sudden dizziness that made the world tilt sideways? You’re not alone. Vertigo affects millions of people worldwide. But what if we told you that vertigo isn’t always an ear issue or a neurological problem? What if it had deeper roots — in your hormones, your gut, and even your lifestyle?

At Hormone Reset, we view vertigo not as a stand-alone condition, but as a symptom of internal imbalance. Our functional medicine approach goes beyond temporary fixes. We find the root cause.

What really is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often triggered by changes in head position or movement. It can be accompanied by nausea, unsteadiness, ringing in the ears, or even blurry vision. It is a symptom, not a disease in itself.

Types of Vertigo You Should Know:

• Peripheral Vertigo: Caused by issues in the inner ear (e.g., BPPV, Meniere’s Disease)
• Central Vertigo: Originates from brain or brainstem problems (e.g., stroke, migraine)
• Functional Vertigo: Arises from systemic imbalances like hormone shifts, gut dysbiosis, or stress

Why It Matters: 

Understanding the type of vertigo helps identify the underlying root — and that’s where healing truly begins.

Also Read: What is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

Vertigo Symptoms: Beyond Dizziness

The experience of vertigo can vary widely, and understanding each symptom can reveal valuable clues about what’s going on internally:

• A spinning or tilting sensation: This hallmark of vertigo often signals inner ear disturbances or brainstem involvement. However, it may also stem from sudden hormonal fluctuations or neurotransmitter imbalance due to poor gut health.
• Difficulty walking or standing: Balance issues point to impaired coordination between the vestibular system and central nervous system. Chronic inflammation or nutrient deficiencies (like magnesium or B12) can make these pathways sluggish.
• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are closely tied to the vagus nerve and gut-brain communication. Disruption in the gut microbiome or adrenal fatigue can make your body more reactive to movement or sensory inputs.
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears): While often associated with inner ear damage, tinnitus can also emerge from hormonal imbalances (especially thyroid dysfunction) and chronic stress impacting neural regulation.
• Visual disturbances: Blurry vision, light sensitivity, or difficulty focusing can stem from vestibular-ocular reflex dysfunction, a condition aggravated by adrenal dysregulation, systemic inflammation, or brainstem signaling issues.
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating: Common in both vertigo and gut dysbiosis, these symptoms are linked to impaired glucose regulation, poor neurotransmitter synthesis, dysbiosis, toxicity, and adrenal burnout — many of which are interconnected with hormone imbalances.
• Panic attacks or heightened anxiety: Anxiety can be both a cause and result of vertigo. Low GABA, high cortisol, and disrupted gut flora intensify the brain’s fear response. Addressing these through hormone and gut reset can calm the nervous system.

The Functional Medicine Lens: What’s Really Going On?

Unlike traditional medicine that treats vertigo symptomatically, functional medicine digs deep into underlying causes:

Gut-Brain Axis Disruption

A compromised gut microbiome affects neurotransmitter production (like serotonin and GABA), which regulate both mood and balance. This imbalance can lead to increased feelings of anxiety and depression, highlighting the vital connection between gut health and mental well-being. 

Hormonal Fluctuations

Shifts in estrogen, cortisol, and thyroid hormones influence blood flow, fluid balance, and nervous system function. These hormonal irregularities can destabilise the vestibular system.

Brainstem and Neurological Triggers

Vertigo may stem from subtle brainstem dysfunctions. Even in the absence of obvious neurological symptoms, inflammation or hormone-related disruptions in this area can result in vertigo.

Deficient Nutrients and Neuroinflammation

Low levels of many nutrients including magnesium, vitamin B12, or omega-3s affect neural conductivity. Chronic inflammation further impairs communication between the brain and body. Consequently, these deficiencies can lead to various neurological issues, making it essential to maintain adequate nutrient levels for optimal brain health.

Also Read: What is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

Gut Health and Vertigo: A Silent but Strong Link

The gut isn’t just for digestion — it’s a control center for brain signaling. Recent research has shown that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in influencing our mood and cognitive functions. Additionally, the connection between the gut and brain highlights the importance of a healthy diet in maintaining mental well-being.

How It Works:

• Gut-Brain Communication: Microbes in the gut interact with the brain through the vagus nerve, forming the gut-brain axis, which impacts mood, emotional response, and cognitive function, influencing mental health and stress responses.
• Effects of Leaky Gut: Increased intestinal permeability, or leaky gut, can cause systemic inflammation that disrupts the vestibular system, essential for balance and spatial awareness. Chronic inflammation contributes to neurological disorders, making gut health vital for neurological well-being.
• Importance of Gut Flora: An imbalance in gut bacteria can lower levels of neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin, which are crucial for mood and balance. It also increases LPA, a highly neurotoxic material. A healthy gut microbiome is necessary for synthesizing these neurotransmitters, and their deficiency can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and balance issues.
• Restoration of Gut Flora: Improving gut flora through dietary changes, probiotics, or other methods may enhance neurotransmitter production, potentially improving mood and balance.

The Hormone Reset Method: A Root-Cause Solution

At Hormone Reset, we heal from within. Our approach combines ancient healing principles by addressing the root causes of hormonal imbalances, we empower our clients to achieve lasting wellness and vitality. Hormone Reset programs integrate functional treatments, dietary modifications, and holistic practices with modern therapies to support each individual’s unique journey to health.

Deep Diagnostic Testing: 

• Gut Microbiota Diversity and Dysbiosis: The gut microbiota consists of a diverse array of microorganisms that play critical roles in digestion, metabolism, and immunity. Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in these populations, which can lead to various health issues, including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and autoimmune disorders.
• Hormonal Mapping: This process measures thyroid hormones, cortisol, and sex hormones to assess their levels and interactions, which are crucial for metabolism, stress response, and reproduction. Imbalances can cause disorders like hypothyroidism and fertility issues.
• Inflammatory and Immune Markers: Evaluating inflammatory markers such as cytokines and CRP is key to understanding chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases, which can impact overall health.
• Brainstem Response: Testing brainstem response provides insights into auditory pathways and neurological health. Abnormal results may signify hearing issues or neurological conditions like autism.
• Nutrient Absorption and Deficiencies: Assessing nutrient absorption is vital to prevent complications from deficiencies, such as anemia or osteoporosis, influenced by factors like gut health and diet.

Individualized Healing Protocols: 

Based on diagnostics, we create:

• Anti-inflammatory meal plans: Incorporating a variety of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can significantly reduce inflammation in the body. Emphasizing antioxidant-rich foods helps combat oxidative stress and promotes overall health.
• Gut repair and detox support: Focusing on gut health can improve digestion and nutrient absorption while reducing symptoms of discomfort. Including probiotics and fiber-rich foods in your diet plays a crucial role in fostering a balanced microbiome.
• Herbal adaptogens to reset cortisol: Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help your body adapt to stress and regulate cortisol levels naturally. Integrating these herbs into your daily routine supports resilience and helps in managing stress more effectively.
• Hormone regulation strategies: Implementing lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management can significantly improve hormonal balance. Understanding the body’s hormonal fluctuations can also guide you in making appropriate dietary changes to support overall wellness.
• Brain retraining therapies and vestibular rehab: These therapies aim to strengthen the brain’s neural connections and improve motor function following disruptions. Engaging in targeted rehabilitation exercises can lead to enhanced coordination and cognitive function, promoting better overall brain health.

Whole-Person Lifestyle Reset: 

We teach patients to:

• Regulate circadian rhythms: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to help your body maintain its natural rhythm.
• Activate the vagus nerve: Deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing and other techniques can stimulate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation. Incorporating these techniques into your daily routine can help manage stress and anxiety levels effectively.
• Reconnect with nature and reduce EMF exposure: Spending time outdoors can boost your mood and mental clarity, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Additionally, limiting exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) by minimizing the use of electronic devices can support overall well-being.
• Move mindfully and reduce toxin load: Engaging in mindful movement practices, such as yoga or tai chi, can enhance your physical and mental health. Moreover, focusing on a clean diet and minimizing exposure to environmental toxins can lead to increased vitality and well-being.

Functional Neurology and Vertigo: Rebuilding Balance

Functional neurology focuses on neuroplasticity — your brain’s ability to rewire itself. It’s especially powerful for chronic or functional vertigo.

Therapies We Use:

• Eye Tracking and Gaze Stabilization: This technique involves training the eyes to follow moving objects smoothly, which can help improve visual processing and reduce dizziness. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing balance issues due to vestibular disorders.
• Vestibular Retraining Exercises: These exercises aim to help individuals adapt to changes in their vestibular system, improving their balance and reducing symptoms like dizziness. They often include head movements and postural challenges to strengthen the brain’s ability to manage spatial orientation.
• Sensory-Motor Integration Therapy: This therapy focuses on enhancing the brain’s ability to process sensory information and coordinate motor responses. It is particularly useful for those with sensory processing disorders, as it combines various activities to promote better body awareness and movement control.
• Brainwave Entrainment Techniques: These techniques use rhythmic stimuli, such as sound or light, to synchronize brainwave activity. This can lead to improved focus, relaxation, and overall mental well-being, making it a valuable tool for stress reduction and cognitive enhancement.

These tools help rebuild lost connections, regulate brain-body communication, and create long-term stability.

The Gut-Brain Axis: More Than Just a Buzzword

Your gut makes over 90% of the body’s serotonin — a key neurotransmitter in mood and motion regulation. Inflammation in the gut impairs this process, leading to:

• Anxiety-triggered dizziness can make it difficult to maintain balance, often leading to feelings of unease and uncertainty.
  
• Heightened sensitivity to motion may result in nausea and discomfort, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.
  
• Fluctuating vestibular control often presents a challenge in situations requiring stability, making it hard to navigate in busy or crowded environments.
  

The Takeaway: Gut health is brain health. And in vertigo, healing the gut is often the first step to lasting recovery.

Functional Vertigo: When the Tests Are Normal but You Still Feel Off

Have you been told “everything looks normal” but still feel dizzy? You may be dealing with functional vertigo — where the problem lies in how your body responds, not what shows up on a scan.

Clues That Point to Functional Vertigo:

• Symptoms worsen with stress or poor sleep
  
• Relief after dietary changes or probiotics
  
• Fluctuating intensity not linked to specific movements
  
• History of hormonal issues or autoimmune disorders
  

At Hormone Reset, we validate what you feel and uncover what’s unseen.

Why Hormone Reset Works Where Others Don’t

• Whole Person Approach: We believe in treating the entire individual, not just their symptoms. This means considering how everything works together, including the gut, brain, hormones, and emotions, to ensure a balanced and healthy body.
  
• Data-Driven Testing: We utilize precise testing methods rather than making guesses about your health. By analyzing your unique data, we can understand your specific needs and tailor a plan that works just for you.
  
• Bio-Individualized Protocols: Our health plans are customized to fit your personal health profile. We recognize that everyone’s body is different, so we design strategies that address your specific conditions and wellness goals.
• Empowerment and Support: We are committed to empowering you throughout your healing journey. This includes educating you about your health choices and providing support every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident and informed in your path to wellness.
  

Restoring Balance, Restoring Life

Vertigo doesn’t need to be a constant companion. By approaching it through the lens of functional medicine and hormone reset, you can take control of your health and find lasting relief. Understanding that vertigo is not merely a random symptom but a message from your body about underlying imbalances is the first step toward healing.

At Hormone Reset, we believe that vertigo is just one part of the puzzle. By addressing the root causes — whether it’s gut health, hormonal imbalances, stress, or neuroinflammation — we offer a holistic solution that doesn’t just mask the symptoms, but fosters true healing. It’s about restoring balance within your body, and in doing so, restoring your life.

Let us help you start that journey — because you deserve a life where you can feel calm, clear-headed, and centered.

References:

1. Rodrigues-Pádua, J., Bercik, P., & Collins, S. M. (2020). The Role of the Gut Microbiota in Vestibular Function. Journal of Neuroinflammation. Link
2. Romijn, M., Brummer, R., & Manfready, S. (2022). Gut Health and Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Implications for Functional Vertigo. Journal of Functional Medicine. Link
3. Swain, S. E., McKinney, S. M., & Thompson, J. K. (2021). Understanding Central Vertigo: A Neurological Perspective. Neurology and Neuroscience Journal. Link
4. Bercik, P., & Collins, S. M. (2018). The Gut–Brain Axis: Implications for Neurological Disorders. Journal of Clinical Investigation. Link
5. Manfready, S., & Pande, A. (2021). Functional Medicine in Treating Chronic Dizziness and Vertigo: An Overview. Integrative Medicine Reviews. Link
6. Swain, S., & Thompson, J. (2019). The Interplay Between Stress Hormones and Dizziness: The Unseen Link. Neuropsychology Review. Link

Vervent, D., & Tilk, M. (2022). Vestibular Rehabilitation and its Role in Chronic Vertigo. Journal of Vestibular Research. Link

Psoriasis has long been viewed as a stubborn autoimmune condition, treated primarily with immunosuppressants, steroids, and biologics. But what if we told you that the key to long-term healing isn’t just about suppressing symptoms but about resetting your body from the inside out?

2025 is the year of Functional Medicine breakthroughs for psoriasis—focusing on root causes like hormonal imbalances, gut health, and immune dysfunction rather than just surface-level symptom control. Let’s explore the top advances Treatments for Psoriasis.

1. Hormone Reset Therapy: A Game-Changer Treatments for Psoriasis

How do hormones affect psoriasis? Research has uncovered a powerful connection between cortisol, insulin, estrogen, and thyroid hormones in triggering or worsening psoriasis. An imbalance in these hormones can lead to increased inflammation, immune dysfunction, and poor skin regeneration.

Breakthrough in 2025: Personalized Hormone Reset Programs

New functional medicine protocols use hormone reset techniques to regulate the endocrine system and rebalance immune responses naturally. This includes:

• Cortisol Management: Targeted stress-reduction therapies, adaptogenic herbs (like Ashwagandha), and biofeedback help to reduce chronic stress-driven inflammation and lower the overproduction of cortisol, a key psoriasis trigger.
• Thyroid Optimization: A personalized plan addressing  thyroid issues, a common trigger for psoriasis, using functional testing, personalised nutrition, naturalthyroid supplements, selenium, and iodine therapy.
• Insulin Sensitivity Protocols: Using low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory diets combined with intermittent fasting, targeted supplements, probiotics, physical activity protocols, to stabilize blood sugar, enhance insulin response, and curb inflammation-driven psoriasis flare-ups.
• Hormone-Balancing Nutrients: Supplementation with key vitamins like Vitamin D, Omega-3s, Zinc, and magnesium to support hormonal equilibrium and improve overall immune system function.

2. Gut-Skin Axis: Healing Psoriasis from the Inside Out

Your skin is a reflection of your gut health. In 2025, microbiome-focused treatments are taking center stage in psoriasis management, as more evidence connects leaky gut syndrome and dysbiosis with autoimmune skin conditions.

Breakthrough in 2025: Advanced Gut Microbiome Testing & Healing Protocols

New at-home stool tests can now map out specific bacterial imbalances and identify gut permeability (leaky gut), which is often a root cause of psoriasis. Functional medicine treatments include:

• Targeted Probiotics & Prebiotics to restore balance, encourage the growth of anti-inflammatory gut bacteria and support beneficial gut flora like Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species.
• Elimination Diets: Diets that remove inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, processed sugars, and nightshades, which are known triggers for psoriasis, are an important part of the reversal process
• Gut Repair: Supplements like L-Glutamine & Collagen to repair the gut lining and strengthen the digestive barrier, promoting healthy immune function and reducing the autoimmune response.
• Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT): Emerging research has shown good resultsof FMT in modulating immune responses, rebalancing the gut microbiome, and improving chronic inflammatory skin conditions.

3. Detoxification Protocols: Clearing Out Hidden Triggers

Heavy metals, mold toxins, and environmental chemicals are silent culprits in psoriasis. These toxins interfere with liver function, disrupt the endocrine system, and contribute to immune overreaction, leading to chronic inflammation and persistent flare-ups.

Breakthrough in 2025: Precision Detox Programs for Psoriasis2

New testing methods now detect specific categories of toxins , leading to personalized detox plans using:

• Infrared Sauna Therapy for deep cellular detox, improved circulation, reduced inflammation, higher energy and enhanced lymphatic drainage.
• Liver-Supporting Supplements (Milk Thistle, N-Acetyl Cysteine, and Glutathione Boosters) help to improve liver function, clear out the sludge from the liver and to enhance natural detox pathways and support the body’s ability to clear toxins.
• Hydrotherapy & Lymphatic Drainage Massage to remove toxins faster, reduce inflammation, and promote skin healing by stimulating lymph circulation.
• Heavy Metal Chelation Therapy: For patients with high mercury, lead, aluminium or arsenic levels, specialized chelation treatments using EDTA and DMSA are proving beneficial in lowering systemic inflammation and improving skin conditions.

4. Autoimmune- Calming Peptides & Regenerative Medicine

Peptide therapy is revolutionizing psoriasis treatment by reprogramming the immune system and reducing chronic inflammation without harmful side effects.

Breakthrough in 2025: BPC-157 & Thymosin Alpha-1 Peptide Therapy

Functional medicine clinics are now using peptides to modulate immune overactivity, resulting in:

• Lowered inflammation without suppressing immunity, unlike conventional immunosuppressants.
• Faster skin healing & reduced scarring due to peptides’ ability to boost collagen production and support tissue regeneration.
• Improved gut lining integrity, leading to fewer flare-ups by reinforcing tight junctions in the intestines.
• Reduction in cytokine storms that exacerbate autoimmune responses in psoriasis patients, improving overall immune function and reducing disease severity.

5. Personalized Nutrigenomics: The Future of Diet-Based Healing

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all psoriasis diets. Genetic research has advanced nutrigenomics, the study of how your genes interact with food, enabling customized dietary interventions for psoriasis patients.

Breakthrough in 2025: DNA-Based Diets for Psoriasis Management

New genetic tests can reveal how your body uniquely responds to certain nutrients, toxins, and also likely food sensitivities. With this data, functional medicine practitioners craft:

• DNA-specific anti-inflammatory diets tailored to your genetic markers, optimizing omega-6 to omega-3 ratios for better inflammatory control.
• Customized supplementation plans targeting genetic deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like methylated B vitamins for improved detoxification and optimising methylation.
• Personalized fasting & eating schedules to optimize immune function, regulate autophagy, and enhance metabolic balance for long-term psoriasis management.
• Epigenetic Modifications: New research is exploring how diet and lifestyle changes can turn off psoriasis-related genes and promote long-term remission, offering a new frontier in Treatments for Psoriasis.

Also Read: Is a Permanent Cure For Psoriasis​ Really Possible? 

The Future of Psoriasis Treatment: Healing at the Root

2025 marks a shift from symptom suppression to deep-rooted healing in psoriasis care. With hormone reset therapy, microbiome restoration, detoxification, peptide therapy, and personalized nutrigenomics, patients are now empowered to achieve long-term remission naturally.

If you’re tired of just managing psoriasis and are ready to truly heal, it’s time to explore the Functional Medicine revolution.

References

• Mayo Clinic Staff. “Psoriasis: Diagnosis & Treatment.” Mayo Clinic, 2025. Link
• Cleveland Clinic. “Psoriasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 2025. Link
• National Library of Medicine. “Psoriasis and Functional Medicine Approaches.” PubMed, 2025. Link
• MFM Australia. “Psoriasis Treatments and Natural Approaches.” MFM, 2025. Link

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Autoimmune diseases are on the increase, and conditions such as Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are two of the most prevalent. Autoimmune diseases usually remain undiagnosed until they are fairly advanced, resulting in major health problems. Early detection can help avert complications, enhance well-being, and return hormones to a balance.

We’ll explore how to diagnose early, how early diagnosis can make a difference, how functional medicine helps treat these conditions, and why hormone reset strategies play a vital role in restoring thyroid function. Functional medicine doesn’t just manage symptoms—it offers a path to true healing and recovery.

What is the Thyroid and Why Does it Matter?

The thyroid gland, lovingly located in our neck, serves a very important function by secreting hormones that assist us in controlling our metabolism, energy levels, and general health. This tiny powerhouse influences almost every organ in our body, regulating all bodily functions including:

• Metabolism and weight
• Heart rate and blood pressure
• Digestion and gut health
• Brain function and mood
• Reproductive health and fertility
• Immune function

When the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, it can cause:

The Two Major Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders

• Graves’ Disease – This causes excess thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism), weight loss, nervousness, a racing heart, and protruding eyes, etc.
• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis – This causes insufficient thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism), causing fatigue, weight gain, depression, and mental fogginess.

Why Early Diagnosis is Important

Many people overlook thyroid issues because symptoms often resemble stress or ageing. Early detection of these conditions is vital for several reasons:

1. Preventing Serious Health Problems

• Graves’ disease, if left untreated, can lead to thyroid storm, a potentially fatal condition with high fever and tachycardia.
• Hashimoto’s may result in myxedema, a severe manifestation of hypothyroidism leading to coma and possible death.
• Both of these conditions increase the risk of heart disease, infertility, and osteoporosis.

2. Improving Daily Life

• Spotting these issues early means you can find relief from exhaustion, mood swings, and brain fog much quicker.
• With the right treatment, you can enjoy a steady weight, renewed energy, and sharper mental clarity.

3. Avoiding Lifelong Medication

• A lot of people rely on medications throughout their lives, sometimes forgetting to address the root issues that could help them feel even better.
• Functional medicine helps uncover natural ways to support the thyroid and, in many cases, can even turn the condition around completely.

Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Hashimoto’s with Functional Medicine

How to Diagnose Autoimmune Thyroid Disease Early

Early detection of autoimmune-mediated thyroid dysfunction is very important to be able to prevent the various conditions mentioned above. To ensure early diagnosis we need to test for the three antibodies mentioned below:

• Anti Thyroglubulin Antibody (Anti TG): ATG attacks and destroys a protein known as thyroglobulin which is needed for thryoid hormone synthesis. This leads to hypothyroidism also known as hashimoto’s. This antibody is often present years before any symptoms appear or the thyroid numbers go out of range. 
• Anti Thyroid Peroxidase (Anti TPO): Anti TPO, also known as AMA, destroys an enzyme called thyroid peroxidase. Without this enzyme the thryoid gland cannot product enough thyroid hormones leading to hypothyroidism or hashimoto’s. 
• Thyroid Receptor Antibody (TSI): TSI mimics the TSH hormone (TSH or thyroid stimulating hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland to stimulate the thyroid) and over-activates the thyroid gland leading to excessive production of thyroid hormones leading to hyperthyroidism of grave’s disease.

Anti TG and Anti TPO can often be detected in the blood years (sometimes even 10-20 years) in advance of any symptoms or even other thyroid numbers going out of range!
TSI can also be detected months in advance of any other symptoms and test results. 

A Functional Medicine Approach To Thyroid Health

Unlike conventional medicine which tends to focus on treating symptoms, functional medicine is a different approach in that it reveals and treats the underlying causes of illness. This approach empowers the body to heal itself naturally and efficiently.

How Functional Medicine Helps:

Comprehensive Testing

Standard tests may miss early thyroid issues. Functional medicine checks:

• TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3
• Thyroid antibodies (TPO, TG, TSI)
• Vitamin and mineral levels (iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin D, iron)
• Gut health markers and inflammation levels
• Toxins that often interfere with thyroid function

Finding the Root Cause

Common triggers include:

• Gluten intolerance (linked to Hashimoto’s)
• Chronic stress (raises cortisol, which affects the thyroid)
• Nutrient deficiencies (iodine, selenium, iron, and zinc are essential)
• Gut problems (a healthy gut supports a strong immune system)
• Toxin exposure (chemicals in plastics and cosmetics harm the thyroid)

Functional Medicine Strategies

Based on Hormone Reset, balancing hormones naturally is key. This includes:

• Eating the right foods – Reducing inflammation and boosting thyroid health.
• Managing stress – Meditation, breathing exercises, and herbal support.
• Healing the gut – Probiotics, fibre, and anti-inflammatory diets help.
• Using targeted supplements – Selenium, magnesium, omega-3s, and B vitamins support the thyroid.

Natural Ways to Support Thyroid Health

Lifestyle changes can help manage and even reverse thyroid issues.

1. Eating for a Healthy Thyroid

Nutrient-rich foods:

• A few great sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, tuna, and sunflower seeds. 
• If you’re looking for iodine, consider incorporating seaweed, iodized salt, and fish into your meals. 
• For zinc, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and beef are excellent choices. 
• And don’t forget about anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and a variety of green vegetables!

Avoid problem foods: Gluten, dairy products, sugar, and processed foods can trigger autoimmune reactions.

2. Managing Stress

Stress can make thyroid problems worse. 

Try:

• Engaging in regular exercise, finding peace through meditation, and practising deep breathing can truly nourish your well-being. 
• Journaling and seeking therapy offer wonderful emotional support, providing a safe space for reflection. 
• Exploring herbal adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola is a lovely way to enhance your resilience and overall wellness.

An important way these practices help is by strengthening and activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which in turn balances the immune system and other functions in the body. For true healing to occur, especially from autoimmune disorders, activation of the parasympathetic nervous system is of paramount importance. 

3. Improving Gut Health

• A thriving gut is essential for our immune system, as it plays a big role in keeping inflammation at bay. 
• To support your gut health, consider enjoying fermented foods, savoring fiber-rich vegetables, and incorporating probiotics into your routine!

4. Address Chronic Infections

Chronic infections can be understood as overgrowths of bacteria, fungus, viruses and parasites in the body. Any chronic overgrowth naturally alarms the immune system into becomng over-reactive. A few well known mechanisms are:

• Pathogens share structural similarities with self-antigens, leading the immune system to mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues. Example: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
• Chronic infections cause persistent inflammation, triggering non-specific immune activation and tissue damage. This can lead to the release of hidden self-antigens, promoting autoimmunity.
• Overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, fungi (Candida), and parasites disrupts gut barrier integrity, allowing undigested proteins and microbial toxins to enter circulation (intestinal permeability). This stimulates an abnormal immune response and cross-reactivity with body tissues.
• Certain viruses (like EBV, CMV, and HHV-6) can remain latent in the body, continuously triggering the immune system and driving chronic autoimmune responses

5. Reducing Toxins

Environmental toxins, including heavy metals (mercury, lead, arsenic), pesticides, industrial chemicals, and air pollutants, can trigger autoimmune diseases through several mechanisms:

• Some toxins mimic self-antigens, leading to immune confusion and attacking the body’s own tissues. Example: Mercury can trigger immune responses similar to those seen in autoimmune thyroid disease.
• Toxins cause oxidative stress, DNA damage, and chronic inflammation, which can break down immune tolerance and lead to autoimmunity.
• Heavy metals and chemicals can damage the intestinal lining, allowing undigested proteins and toxins into circulation, triggering an immune response. Example: Glyphosate in pesticides is linked to increased intestinal permeability and autoimmune diseases.
• Overburdened liver detoxification (due to high toxin exposure) can lead to the accumulation of toxins, worsening immune dysfunction and inflammation.
• Chronic toxin exposure can alter gene expression (without changing DNA), increasing susceptibility to autoimmune diseases like lupus, MS, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Hence it is essential to pay attention to all potential sources of toxins and reduce the exposure.

Take Charge of Your Thyroid Health

Living with thyroid disease doesn’t have to be the whole story of your life! When you catch it early and take the right steps, there’s a real chance to feel so much better. Functional medicine isn’t just about alleviating symptoms; it’s about discovering genuine pathways to recovery. By addressing the root causes through a nourishing diet, managing stress, and embracing personalized nutrition, many have found success in overcoming their thyroid challenges, leading to a boost in energy, metabolism, and overall well-being. 

If you’re noticing symptoms of Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease, don’t wait—take the step to get tested and start your journey to recovery today!

References

• Cao J, Wang N, Luo Y, et al. A cause-effect relationship between Graves’ disease and the gut microbiome contributes to the thyroid-gut axis: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Front Immunol. 2023;14:977587.
• Wyne KL, Nair L, Schneiderman CP, et al. Hypothyroidism prevalence in the United States: a retrospective study combining National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and claims data, 2009-2019. J Endocr Soc. 2022;7(1):bvac172.
• Yuan S, Du X, Liu H, et al. Association between bisphenol A exposure and thyroid dysfunction in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Toxicol Ind Health. 2023;39(4):188-203. 
• Gorini F, Bustaffa E, Coi A, Iervasi G, Bianchi F. Bisphenols as environmental triggers of thyroid dysfunction: clues and evidence. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17(8):2654. 
• Toloza FJK, Mao Y, Menon LP, et al. Association of thyroid function with posttraumatic stress disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Endocr Pract. 2020;26(10):1173-1185. 
• Razvi S, Bhana S, Mrabeti S. Challenges in interpreting thyroid stimulating hormone results in the diagnosis of thyroid dysfunction. J Thyroid Res. 2019;2019:4106816. 
• Iwen KA, Schröder E, Brabant G. Thyroid hormones and the metabolic syndrome. Eur Thyroid J. 2013 Jun;2(2):83-92. doi: 10.1159/000351249. Epub 2013 May 28. 
• Gontarz-Nowak K, Szklarz M, Szychlińska M, Matuszewski W, Bandurska-Stankiewicz E. A Brief Look at Hashimoto’s Disease, Adrenal Incidentalomas, Obesity and Insulin Resistance-Could Endocrine Disruptors Be the Other Side of the Same Coin? Medicina (Kaunas). 2023 Jun 30;59(7):1234. doi: 10.3390/medicina59071234.
• Hasham A, Tomer Y. Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in thyroid autoimmunity. Immunol Res. 2012 Dec;54(1-3):204-13. doi: 10.1007/s12026-012-8302-x. 
• Coppedè F. Epigenetics and Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2017 Jun 29;8:149. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00149.

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