The connection between blood sugar spikes and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a topic that deserves attention. Hashimoto’s is known for its numerous triggers, with dysglycemia being one of them. Dysglycemia refers to fluctuating blood sugar levels, where the glucose levels rise and fall. While diabetics experience persistently high blood sugar, severely hypoglycemic individuals have consistently low blood sugar levels. However, for those whose blood sugar levels fluctuate between high and low, it can be a crucial indicator of insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, or reactive hypoglycemia.
If you suspect dysglycemia, pay attention to two key symptoms: fatigue after meals, often associated with insulin resistance, and postprandial fatigue. Experiencing both of these symptoms may indicate fluctuating blood sugar levels. Understanding the impact of these fluctuations on Hashimoto’s becomes relatively straightforward.
The primary hormone affected by blood sugar fluctuations is cortisol. While cortisol is widely known as a stress hormone, it primarily acts as a glucocorticoid, regulating blood sugar levels. When blood sugar rises, cortisol increases, and when blood sugar decreases, cortisol levels decrease as well. This reciprocal relationship determines the body’s response to changing blood sugar levels.
Cortisol also plays a role in the initiation of inflammatory processes. Whether cortisol levels rise or fall, inflammation is triggered. Given that Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disorder with multiple triggers, it becomes crucial to identify and eliminate the sources of inflammation. Simply addressing inflammation by using supplements like turmeric may not be effective if dysglycemia is left uncontrolled. It is essential to identify and address all triggers that contribute to inflammation.
Dysglycemia is a potent trigger for autoimmune thyroid disease, ranking among the top causes. In a list of 42 or 43 triggers, dysglycemia would likely be placed in the top five or six due to the general lack of blood sugar control in our society. Inadequate meal frequency, consumption of unhealthy foods, insufficient food intake, and overeating all contribute to poor blood sugar control. The abundance of easily accessible food has numbed our awareness of blood sugar management, leading to potential health complications.
Blood sugar regulation is influenced by various factors, including stress. Stress raises insulin levels, leading to increased blood sugar and subsequent inflammation. This chain reaction can have a profound impact on Hashimoto’s, triggering inflammatory responses and raising TPO antibody levels. These antibodies attack the thyroid, causing further disruption and symptoms such as tremors and restlessness. Clearly, blood sugar management plays a crucial role in managing Hashimoto’s.
Low blood pressure is another significant factor to consider. Individuals with low blood pressure and poor blood sugar regulation may suffer from reduced oxygen supply to the brain cells, leading to chronic inflammation. Addressing these two issues is paramount when treating challenging cases of Hashimoto’s. Even if dietary changes, such as eliminating gluten, are implemented, persistent dysglycemia and low blood pressure can hinder progress. Treating these underlying issues alongside other interventions is essential for successful management.
In conclusion, understanding the connection between blood sugar spikes and Hashimoto’s is vital for individuals dealing with this autoimmune thyroid disorder. By recognizing the impact of dysglycemia on cortisol, inflammation, and immune responses, patients can take proactive steps toward managing their symptoms and improving their overall thyroid health. Achieving proper blood sugar control and addressing triggers effectively will contribute to a comprehensive approach to managing Hashimoto’s.
Note: The above article was auto generated off the transcript of the above video. Because of this there may be some errors that do not coincide with the video.
