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SHOW NOTES: Episode 51

Do you need to go gluten-free if you have Hashimoto’s?

I’m bringing back Lindsay O’Reilly, registered dietitian, to discuss the relationship between gluten and thyroid dysfunction. You might remember Lindsay from episode 3 and episode 20 where we dove into the basics of thyroid function. We’re shifting gears for this episode and focusing on if you need to go gluten-free if you have Hashimoto’s.

Lindsay shares that there are two main reasons why gluten can be problematic for those with thyroid issues. The first is related to gut health and autoimmune disease. Lindsay explains that a condition known as leaky gut, where the gut barrier becomes permeable, allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream and can trigger autoimmune disease. Gluten can contribute to this condition, causing immune system reactions.

The second reason is a phenomenon known as molecular mimicry. In this scenario, the body mistakes gluten for thyroid tissue and attacks the thyroid.

Going gluten-free can be difficult at first. Lindsay recommends removing gluten from the diet for at least 3 to 6 months to see if symptoms improve and to allow the immune system effects of gluten to subside. However, she does share that it can be challenging to remove gluten completely.

We talk about navigating social situations while maintaining a gluten-free diet and how that can be tricky at times.

It’s important to do your research and understand where gluten can be found in food. A good starting point is substituting gluten-containing foods with whole foods. For instance, you could replace toast with roasted potatoes.

Reliable resources for gluten-free recipes can be a lifesaver. Lindsay and I both recommend the Real Food RDs (therealfooddietitians.com), my website, and Pinterest as great starting points. Remember, transitioning to a gluten-free diet takes time, and it’s important to give yourself grace during the process.

Sometimes, there can be shame and guilt that is associated with food choices. Eating in general can bring up shame for many people, especially those with a history of dieting. It’s important to make choices based on what works for your own body and seek resources and support if needed.

Remember, this journey is personal and should not be driven by shame but rather by a desire for healing. We encourage you to focus on positive reasons for making dietary changes, such as improving your health and feeling better, not the scale.

Navigating a gluten-free lifestyle requires patience and self-compassion. It’s a journey, not a destination. So, take baby steps, make mindset shifts, and remember to be kind to yourself along the way.

I want to remind you that this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or replace medical care. Please seek a medical professional for individualized care for you.

Thank you for listening! I would love to connect with you on Instagram (@loveyourbodywell) and hear what you thought about today’s episode!

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER:

• Gluten and its relationship to thyroid dysfunction
• The difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity
• Reasons for removing gluten from the diet
• Discussion on leaky gut and how gluten can contribute to autoimmune disease
• Explanation of molecular mimicry and how gluten can trigger an immune system attack on the thyroid
• Challenges of eating gluten-free in social situations and advice for transitioning to a gluten-free diet

LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

• Connect with Lindsay on Instagram: @thyroidnutrition.rd or on her website: www.lindsayoreillyrd.com
• Gluten-free recipes that we recommend: Real Food RDs: (therealfooddietitians.com) or you can find some gluten-recipes on my website as well!
• Primally Pure — Use Code BBJ when you order from Primally Pure using this link!
• Check out last week’s episode here!
• I’d love to connect with you on Instagram: @loveyourbodywell
• Join my email list HERE to stay connected!

MORE ABOUT THE LOVE YOUR BODY WELL PODCAST:

Nourishment from the inside out. 

The Love Your Body Well Podcast is a safe place for you to learn about healing your relationship with your body while also focusing on wellness so you can feel your best. 

I’m your host, Amy Reinecke, and I’ve made it my mission to empower you to own your journey and embrace the path before you. Wellness is multi-faceted and there are so many areas that create the foundation for overall wellness.  As women, too often the number on the scale or the size of our jeans takes precedence, and the truth is, it’s about a lot more than that.

On the Love Your Body Well Podcast you’ll be encouraged to be an advocate for your health, learn to listen and love the skin you’re in, embrace your journey, and heal your body and mind with self-love and compassion. This podcast is for you if you want to take back control of your health and embark on a self love journey to love, cherish and care for the one body you have. Here, you will learn how to love your body well.

Join my email list and connect with me on my blog at www.loveyourbodywell.net and Instagram @loveyourbodywell.

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This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or replace medical care.