Hashimoto's - Secondary
What Does It Mean?
Hashimoto’s Secondary is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. Unlike primary Hashimoto’s, secondary Hashimoto’s is associated with dysregulation in the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, which leads to inadequate Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) production. This results in decreased thyroid hormone levels, impacting metabolism, energy production, and immune function.
Root Causes & Imbalances
- Autoimmune dysfunction leading to chronic inflammation
- Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid (HPT) Axis disruption, causing inadequate TSH stimulation
- Iodine metabolism impairment, affecting thyroid hormone synthesis
- Nutrient deficiencies (selenium, iodine, zinc, vitamin D) crucial for thyroid function
- Chronic stress & adrenal dysfunction, influencing cortisol and immune response
How Did We Get Here?
Signs & Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Secondary
Patients typically present with:
- Fatigue and sluggish metabolism
- Cold intolerance
- Weight gain despite normal diet and activity levels
- Depression or mood instability
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Dry skin, brittle nails, and hair thinning
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness and joint pain
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
Lab Markers & Expected Changes
To confirm Hashimoto’s Secondary, we assess thyroid and immune function markers.
| Lab Test | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) | Decreased | 1.00-2.00 µU/mL |
| Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO Ab) | Increased | 0-6.80 IU/mL |
| Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Anti-Tg IgG) | Increased | 0-15.00 IU/mL |
| Iodine (Serum/Plasma) | Normal or Decreased | 52.00-80.00 µg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach
Treatment focuses on immune modulation, thyroid hormone support, nutrient replenishment, and inflammation reduction.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita-Thyro | Supports thyroid hormone production and metabolism | 1 capsule with or without food, three times daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces inflammation and modulates immune response | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports estrogen metabolism, reducing autoimmunity triggers | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| DG Protect | Enhances digestive enzyme function for better nutrient absorption | 1 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, three times daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet (gluten-free, dairy-free, low processed foods)
- Stress Management (mindfulness, adaptogenic herbs)
- Optimize Sleep to regulate HPA axis
- Exercise (low-impact movement like yoga or walking)
- Avoid Endocrine Disruptors (reduce exposure to toxins, plastics, and processed foods)