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The Gluten-Thyroid Connection

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This article is part of a special report on Thyroid Disorders. To see the other articles in this series, click here.

In the first article in this series, I showed that hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disease in 90% of cases. In this article we’re going to discuss the connection between autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) and gluten intolerance.

Several studies show a strong link between AITD (both Hashimoto’s and Graves’) and gluten intolerance. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5] The link is so well-established that researchers suggest all people with AITD be screened for gluten intolerance, and vice versa.

What explains the connection? It’s a case of mistaken identity.

The molecular structure of gliadin, the protein portion of gluten, closely resembles that of the thyroid gland. When gliadin breaches the protective barrier of the gut, and enters the bloodstream, the immune system tags it for destruction.

These antibodies to gliadin also cause the body to attack thyroid tissue. This means if you have AITD and you eat foods containing gluten, your immune system will attack your thyroid.

Even worse, the immune response to gluten can last up to 6 months each time you eat it. This explains why it is critical to eliminate gluten completely from your diet if you have AITD. There’s no “80/20” rule when it comes to gluten. Being “mostly” gluten-free isn’t going to cut it. If you’re gluten intolerant, you have to be 100% gluten-free to prevent immune destruction of your thyroid.

So how do you find out if you’re gluten intolerant? Unfortunately, standard lab tests aren’t very accurate. They test for antibodies to gluten in the bloodstream. But antibodies in the blood will only be found in cases where the gut has become so permeable that gluten can pass through. This is a relatively advanced stage of disease. Blood tests will miss the many milder cases of gluten intolerance that haven’t yet progressed to that stage.

Stool analysis is far more sensitive, because it detects antibodies produced in the digestive tract that aren’t yet escaping into the bloodstream. Using this method at Entero Lab, Dr. Kenneth Fine, a pioneer in the field, has found that up to 35% of Americans are gluten intolerant.

In addition to the stool analysis, Dr. Fine’s lab uses a cheek swab to test for the genes connected with gluten intolerance and celiac disease. People with HLA DQ genes are more likely than the general population to have autoimmune disease, celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Dr. Fine’s research shows that more than 80% of Americans have one of these gene types.

When I first read Dr. Fine’s research, I was astounded by the implications. It suggests that 1 in 3 Americans are gluten intolerant, and that 8 in 10 are genetically predisposed to gluten intolerance. This is nothing short of a public health catastrophe in a nation where the #1 source of calories is refined flour. But while most are at least aware of the dangers of sugar, trans-fat and other unhealthy foods, fewer than 1 in 8 people with celiac disease are aware of their condition. I would guess that an even lower proportion of people are aware they are gluten intolerant.

One reason gluten intolerance goes undetected in so many cases is that both doctors and patients mistakenly believe it only causes digestive problems. But gluten intolerance can also present with inflammation in the joints, skin, respiratory tract and brain – without any obvious gut symptoms.

As much improved as Dr. Fine’s methods are, they aren’t perfect. In some patients with autoimmune disease, their immune system is so worn out they can no longer produce many antibodies.

Hashmioto’s, the most common autoimmune thyroid condition, is primarily a Th1 dominant condition. I’ll explain what this means in further detail in a future article. For now, what you need to understand is that in Th1-dominant conditions, the Th2 system is suppressed. The Th2 system is the part of the immune system responsible for producing antibodies. When the Th2 system is severely depressed, the body’s ability to produce antibodies is impaired. The levels may be so low that they won’t show up on a test. So, even if you have gluten intolerance, your test for gluten antibodies may be falsely negative if you have Th1-dominant Hashimoto’s.

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This is why I recommend that you avoid gluten if you have AITD, regardless of whether tests show an active antibody response. This is especially true if you have one of the genes (HLA DQ1,2, or 3) that predisposes you to developing gluten intolerance. In my opinion continuing to eat gluten when you have a confirmed autoimmune condition simply isn’t worth risking the immune destruction it could cause.

In fact, the more I learn about gluten and its effects on the body, the more I think we’d all probably be better off not eating it. Mark Sisson has written extensively about the dangers of gluten and gluten-containing grains, so head over there and have a look if this is new to you.

The short version: foods that contain gluten (both whole grains and flours) contain substances that inhibit nutrient absorption, damage our intestinal lining, and – as I’ve described in this article – activate a potentially destructive autoimmune response. What’s more, there are no nutrients in gluten-containing foods that you can’t get more easily and efficiently from foods that don’t contain gluten.

The good news is that if you have AITD and are gluten intolerant, removing gluten completely from your diet will dramatically improve your health. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

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742 Comments

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  1. Gods I wish I had known of this connection when I was searching with everything I had to fight the graves disease that was consuming my body for 6 years before I finally gave in and let the stupid doctors have their way and radioblated it. Single biggest self betrayal of my life, but after trying everything I could find, I could not maintain the shaky normal readings I finally achieved. Had I known that bread – the staff of life – was what was killing me… It’s a bitter pill to be sure… Gluten free for 14 months now. Can’t save my thyroid, but it will save the rest of me, and I can warn others.

  2. I’ve been taking synthroid since I was 14 and now I’m 45. Is it possible to heal my thyroid gland and not take synthroid anymore?

    • Courtney…

      While this is not professional advice, quit dilly-dallying and check the links, above, for Primal Body/Primal Mind AND the radio interview appearing on Coast to Coast. Don’t expect friends and family to be too sympathetic as you try to Stop the Madness.

      Be advised: this is a long road. I can tell you that two years ago I had a lowered body temperature and aggravatingly cold hands in in temperate weather. Last night I walked my white German shepherd mix in below-zero wind chill w/ no discomfort to my hands, whatsoever, in the standard glove that I had worn before. My body temperature as returned to normal–despite my dropping twenty pounds–as evidenced by nominal readings during my five blood donations within the past year.

      You must be radical and tough w/ your health–it is a type of faith to go gluten and carbohydrate free. As a bread LOVER and carbohydrate freak for over 50 years, I can tell you that it is worth the trip.

  3. I’ve had Hashis for almost 20 years now. My symptoms have been poorly managed by synthetic hormones; my PCP would just increase or decrease my Levoxyl based on what my TSH happened to be doing on the day I had my blood drawn.

    So after years of going to a traditional western doctors and endocrinologists, I finally stopped the madness and went to a naturopathic doctor.

    First thing she did was order Array 3 and Array 4 from Cyrex Labs. (www.cyrexlabs.com)

    Predictably, my antibodies for almost all of the wheat proteins were double and triple where they should have been compared to the “normal” reference ranges. (In 20 years of treatment, no doctor had ever bothered to test me for Celiacs.)

    What was even more interesting, were all of the cross-reactive foods in array 4 that I am producing antibodies for. Milk, sesame, hemp, rye, barley, buckwheat, millet, spelt, quinoa, tapioca, and spelt all showed up with a high AI response. Coffee, interestingly, was the highest of the bunch at more than twice the reference range.

    (These tests are expensive – $550 for Array 3 & 4, and likely not covered by your insurance, but it really is a great comfort just to “know.”)

    I”ve been vegan for the past 15 years, which is pretty much the worst possible diet that a Hashis/celiacs person could possibly be on. All I ate was pasta, bread, seitan (straight up wheat gluten) and soy. It makes me sick to think how much damage I have done over the years, thinking I was living a “healthy vegan lifestyle.”

    I’m on a prescribed gut-healing detox diet for the time being and trying to educate myself about where I go from here, so thanks for this community! I need to re-learn and rethink eating. It’s sort of daunting, but my health is worth it.

  4. Laurie…

    About the “sugar-free” diet… Please consider checking the sources re the paleo-diet (Primal Body/Primal Mind) that I have indicated, above. More than likely your thyroid is still being hammered by the (most likely still) high-glycemic nature of your diet.

    But the gluten-free step removes a lot of the bad things…

    R.

  5. Where was this info six years ago?! I’ve spent that last six years covered with chronic hives. Taking massive amounts of anti-histamines (the only thing any Dr would do for me). Last year, I didnt have a single week without hives and that was it for me. I finally figure out I was on my own figuring this out.
    Yet another Dr blamed yeast so while walking a yeast free path, I figured I should go gluten free. Well I didn’t last too long on all things yeast sugar free but I decided to stick with gluten free. After three weeks, no hives. I can report that I am still mostly hive free. I am still learning the gluten free ropes and I can’t quite figure out why working out causes hives but I’m onto that next (now I think thyroid).
    PS: I really got hive relief when I gave up coffee in conjunction with gluten (I’ve read there is a link there too).

  6. Thank you for making the gluten-thyroid connection understandable! Ive been hypo/hashi for 10 years and was just told this week to go gluten free. It is so mmuch easier turning down a cookie now with this knowledge! But will take awhile to become the ingredient expert I need to be. I am really looking forward to your next article!

  7. Hi Chris,

    Thank you for doing your part to educate people about the effects of gluten.

    Do you have a list of cross reactive proteins that are related to wheat or gluten?

    Besides gluten, what else will trigger thyroid antibody production?

    What is the recommended dose of selenium to help inhibit thyroid antibodies?

    Is there anything else that inhibits thyroid antibodies?

    What is recommended as far as iodine supplimentation goes?

    Thank you for your help,

    Rob

  8. Hey Robert , I really enjoyed your post! You should start your own blog.
    What you say about Primal Body , Primal Mind really resonates with me too. Nora Gedgaudas has written such an easy to understand and fascinating book. I congratulate you on taking charge of your health. And believe me, I just turned 53 but I notice men my age and older who have managed to stay or get into shape, because I believe almost all of us have the ability to stay in or attain a healthy state. I see hundreds of guys who pass through my workplace and the healthy looking ones do stand out. So keep up the great work and keep the rest of us motivated.
    There is a slight chance that I might be able to participate in a climb to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro in the new year, so I am trying to get into the best condition that is possible for me. I don’t know too much information on being paleo and endurance exercise. If anyone has tips, I am all ears.
    Guess we are slightly off topic! Gluten….best to eliminate it for Most people.
    Another very good book is Wheat Belly by William Davis M.D. I don’t agree with everything in his book, but nevertheless, a lot of important information the public should know about.
    Happy holidays!

    • Kathryn…

      I really, really don’t understand someone who wants to go after Kilimanjaro–you have got to be kidding me. Insane. (But we all admire you, actually.)

      I find that I must apologize to all the readers–esp. you and Cindy–for the (obnoxious) references to body type, something a self-respecting guy should never do. Again, I did so only because this matters to some people, though I regard the changes to weight a purely secondary issue. (But thank-you for your kind remarks and your reference to my starting a blog (and the Good Doctor here is WAY ahead of me there).

      Please have a nice Christmas–everyone here, really, have a wonderful holiday. We are all struggling to stay strong not only for ourselves but those around us whom we love.

      Merry Christmas, all!!! (And, Hey Doc–you too!)

      • Robert,

        Well, Kilimanjaro is not quite Everest..now that to me is insane! Also it would be part of a medical research project so the whole science part is very interesting to me. May not even happen.

        Merry Christmas to you too!

  9. Kathy and Cindy…

    Yes, I know that we are really under the gun here w/ the holiday schedule, so quickly…

    Outside of the Bible, Ms. Gedgaudas’s book is, perhaps, the most life changing thing that I have ever read. It is not moving, of course, but from a practical life perspective it is unmatched. (Of course, Nora, herself, is relating what she has learned and complied from other sources, including sites like this and those you have referenced.)

    So, quickly… BE WARNED: if you decide to walk through this door you may experience a long and lonely ride. Since I don’t know where to start, I will dispense just a couple of recent anecdotes regarding myself and my friends.

    Primal Body was a “teacup” moment for me. (The movie “Hunt for Red October”–a definite guy flick but a classic for some campy scenes amid the tumult–contained a scene where a top Russian apparatchik (sp?) was walking his way to his office, grunting his acknowledgement to the muffled morning greetings echoing about his entrance. But one only saw his upper back and the camera panned forward w/ his progress. As he takes his seat at his desk, one only sees his large hands working his mail. He opens a note from his son-in-law, Captain Ramius, who has absconded w/ the Soviet Union’s marine Death Star, the Red October. As he reads the note, one only sees his left hand holding the note, and his right hand holding his teacup. The cup then abruptly drops from his motionless hand against the bone china saucer (w/ the characteristic note).

    Well, that is why I say that Primal Body, Primal Mind was my teacup moment. It is something that, once apprehended, changes everything, forever. (And that is true even if one “falls off the wagon” because the truth is out.) I wasted no time in conveying the outline of the concept to others (and purchased several copies as Kindle gifts for people to read on their PC screens–that option is there for everyone via “Kindle for the PC, avail. as a free download from Amazon). One of my closest friends is now taking this approach up full bore and has lost 15 lbs. in a couple of months. Btw, I am 6’1″ and was 175 last spring. I am now 152 lbs. (my fall senior high weight in ’73) and have abdominal and stomach muscles I never knew I had. My waist is 27”, but my legs and rump are still strong, and my chest is 40+!). Now, I am only relating information about weight and measurements (and who in the world cares about a guy–nobody) because I want to convey that this diet does NOT emaciate oneself, if followed correctly. (Remember the injunction–if you decide to go this route–about not consuming too much protein because one will revert to carbo-burning again.)

    (There is really way too much to discuss here…) Okay, last night a heavier friend (about whom I worry much and would be a choice candidate for this LIFESTYLE–it is not a diet; it is more akin to AA) and I were having a great time w/ a holiday meal at Bob Evans. I was trying to “Primal Body” the menu and decided upon the (surprisingly good) Cobb salad. I noticed that the last time we were there I couldn’t read the menu, at all. Well, about a month ago, I noticed that, suddenly, I could read very fine print again. I was reading labels on gluten free flour offerings from Bob’s Red Mill (purely a coincidence–and I have LIVED for bread and spent years perfecting it from home by baking it in a steam bath within a huge cast iron pot, lid on) and was astonished that I could read everything on the label. I then grabbed a bunch of other products to see if I could keep it up–I did! Primal Body has much information about cross-linked sugars and proteins in the blood called Advanced Glycation End Products or AGEs. These twisted molecules gum up the free flow of nutrients between our cells (I am butchering the description now–please refer to the book) and otherwise disrupt the flow of blood through the finer capillaries of the body–the eyes, for instance.

    So, anyway, my incredulous friend at Bob Evans was astonished as I rattled off all kinds of menu descriptions. And, you know, I don’t really want to debate things like this w/ anyone. This experience is not fabricated by me, and I gain no energy from misleading others.

    Btw, my Christmas gift (to myself) this year is an upgrade, in the form of poles, boots, and bindings, to my circa mid-eighties Rossignol (waxable) cross-country skis because I no longer have the discomfort that prevented my doing so since the early nineties.

    I could go on and on. The improvements, mostly, are subtle and slow going. But they are on-going, too.

    I shudder when I think how different things would be for me if I hadn’t turned on the radio that night…

    Merry Christmas

    (And that book couldn’t be a better gift)

  10. I’ve done a lot of work and research around Gluten Free diets, being in the field of nutrition. It wasn’t until I was diagnosed myself with hypothyroidism. I started gluten-free but would like to ask how long does it take for symptoms (especially fatigue) to alleviate a bit? I know it differs for everyone…but what signs should one look for? Also what is your research based off of? Would like to know more 🙂

    • Cindy…

      This is purely anecdotal, but everyone giving this an honest shot must be 1) hardcore about it, and 2) give it time. Remember, a week is an eternity when making what amounts to a radical change in diet.

      Your time frame must be long term: 6 months to a year, minimum.

      But you WILL get results, esp. as pertains to the thyroid (and, perhaps, primarily because such a diet tends to be los glycemic). Please consider this VERY important work by Nora T. Gedgaudas: Primal Body, Primal Mind. http://www.amazon.com/Primal-Body-Mind-Beyond-Health/dp/1594774137/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1324616290&sr=1-1

      The book has an extensive chapter on gluten-free dietary imperatives.

    • Hi Cindy,

      I have been gluten free for six months because I have Hashimoto’s. I had blood work done after the 1st month and my TSH was no better, but apparently that can fluctuate. I tend to be anemic and hypoglycemic. I have found that as long as I am getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep, the fatigue is not really there. The biggest change for me is that I went almost 100 percent grain free (had a little bit of rice noodles recently) and stopped eating the really sweet fruits. I think that this is helping the blood sugar regulation and adrenal fatigue. I eat a lot of good quality fats like organic coconut oil, olive oil, avocado, fat from pastured animals that keeps me satisfied. I also eat enough good quality protein of animal sources. I no longer eat the large amount of legumes I ate in the past, but still eat a lot of vegetables (with fats). I know now how I did my body disservice when I used to succumb to the large bag or corn tortilla chips (I figured, what the heck, it’s not wheat and it’s organic)! I also take a cow’s liver supplement, ubiquinol, do glutathione therapy, vitamin b and d, probiotics amongst a few other supplements. I should have a blood test done in the next few months to find out if my glucose levels are better.

      My biggest problem is eczema, and I am thinking that I may have to eliminate dairy and eggs. I try to stay away from dairy most of the time, but have it once in awhile. I still rely on eggs every week. There is something called molecular mimicry in which the protein of one molecule resemble a protein of another – such as gluten and casein. The problem lies when the body reacts negatively to the similar proteins of different molecules. Cyrex labs has an array of tests called the
      Gluten-Associated Cross-Reactive Foods and Foods Sensitivity.

      I have not taken it because I am afraid to find out if I am sensitive to things like chocolate and eggs…but I really should.

      • Cindy…

        Kathryn’s comment is v. helpful, but you should know that most of what is there–including the direction re Cyrex Lab’s–is included in the book I referenced above. (I don’t know whether she arrived independently at this information, but if not the lack of attribution only reinforces how important the Gedgaudas book is. (Additionally, I have no connection, in any way, whatsoever, to Ms. Gedgaudas, her publisher, Amazon.com, or anything remotely tied to the subject in any commercial sense.)

        Also, here is a most informative interview w/ the author, a couple hours worth on Coast to Coast AM:
        http://www.coasttocoastam.com/show/2011/06/21

        Listening requires a monthly membership of $7.00, but even this would be worth the one shot it would cost to listen to it.

        • Hi Kathryn and Robert,

          Kathryn it sounds like you need an overall anti-inflammatory diet and congrats on taking your helth into your hands—thank you for the feedback. I have worked with patients with food sensitivities and highly recommend you getting a food sensitivity test by a nutritionist (they know how to look for things some other doctors may overlook).

          Robert,

          Thanks so much for your feedback it’s very appreciated. I plan on looking at the resources you’ve given me and look forward to discussing them with you. This is great of you to put this all together…it’s gaining more popularity and needs people like you giving out the right information!

        • Hey Robert,

          I love Primal Body Primal Mind, but had not read it in a few months. In fact I just started reading the book after I posted last night and read the chapter about gluten.. Her book is just amazing!
          I learned about Cyrex labs from another website, and I attended a seminar for health care practioners regarding gluten sensitivity where Dr. Thomas O’Bryan talked about Cyrex labs. The doctor I consider brilliant is Dr. Datis Kharrazian who wrote :

          “Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms” . I have learned so much from his book and website, and first found out about the gluten connection to autoimmune diseases a couple of years back. However, I didn’t know that it was a complete elimination of gluten, not most of the time of gluten free to allow healing to begin. I kept thinking that a little was ok once in awhile.

          http://www.thyroidbook.com/about-dr-kharrazian.html

          I’ve started downloading podcasts of Ms. Gedgaudas’s talks on the net and listen on my drives. Sometimes I don’t want to get out of the car!

  11. Hi Chris,

    Thanks for an excellent site!
    I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism a little over two years ago, and have been struggling to get to terms with it.

    I didn’t know about the gluten-thyroid link until I read about it here. So about a week ago, I started on a gluten free diet, and it feels like my body almost immediately started responding positively. More energy, less constipation etc etc. And yesterday(about five days gluten free) I was feeling much better than I have in a very long time.

    However, today I feel weak and tired again and constipation is back aswell. Feels almost like when I started on thyroid replacement and the dosage was to high for the adrenals to handle.

    So I was wondering; could it be that thyroid levels have already risen, thanks to the gluten-fre diet, and that they are now too high – leaving the adrenal struggling..? Could this really happen this soon in to being gluten-free..??

    Would very much appreciate a response.

    Thanks again for a wonderful site!

    best regards
    //George

  12. Extremely interesting article.
    My husband was diagnosed with diabetes(type 1) about 4 years ago at age 30. Then shortly after with “a thyroid disorder” still trying to find out what that means. Is there a difference between hypothyroidism and Auto Immune Thyroid disorders? If so how do you tell? I just think that it is extremely strange how you can suddenly develop two different autoimmune conditions later in life. Also, a week or so ago, the doctor told him he was extremely anemic. I have a hunch that it possibly may be linked to gluten. My husband thinks I am crazy, and he is just an unlucky guy. Anyway, he doesn’t really ask the doctors too many questions. So I would like to tell him what to ask. I can’t go to his appointments with him right now because I am on deployment. My question is what kind of tests should be administered to see what type of thyroid condition he has? Also, as far as the gluten thing goes should he be tested for celiac disease or a gluten intolerance? Is it possible all of these health problems that he has could be the result of years of eating gluten?

  13. I have a 9 1/2 year old son who has autism and significant cognitive delay. His diagnosis of cognitive issues came early, 13 mo, but an autism diagnosis at 4. He was an extremely thin child, very active and usually under weight until the age of 6. At six he began to gain weight, as well as height at a rapid pace. His weight gain was rapid and then began to having significant edema in hands and legs and began to have a redness to his skin.. We followed up with a pediatrician who did a full blood and kidney workup with no avail. He met with a cardiologist to confirm that his heart was not enlarged or not functioning to explain the swelling. The weight continued to rise and at 7 we met with an endocrinologist who did further testing. His finding included advanced bone age, he ruled out precosious puberty, and identified that he had boderline hypothyrodism. He started a daily dose of levothyroxin and told us to watch his activity level and diet. A year later, the weight was still increasing and the thyroid levels were still boderline and his levothyroxin dose was doubled. We just met recently with endocrinologist who has now given him a diagnosis of Obesity and has referred us to a dietician. I have been a proactive parent is addressing diet and exercise in our family. We allow no fast food, no soda, limited juice and milk. He eats whole grain cereals, yogurt, fruit, vegetables, low fat meats and limited sweets. He still has a redness to his skin at all times, swelling and digestive issues (though those are common with autism) He frequently has hot, red rashes around his torso and boil like pimples on his legs and arms. His activity level is non-stop and we also do many family activities to keep him moving.
    Out of ideas and frustrated I mentioned to our chiropractor that I was confused on how a kid who eats a steady diet of healthy food and spends little time on the couch is obese. He mentioned looking into “Leaky Gut Syndrome” and said that it can put the body into starvation mode which encourages over-eating and little nutritional benefit from the food.
    I have a sister diagnosed with celiac. My son has been test for celiac several years ago and the test came back negative. Reading your article raises more questions on the tie to gluten intolerance/sensitivity and thyroid disfunction for him. Do you have any suggestions for our family? I am extremely concerned for his health and I feel like I am gaining little from our extensive list of physicians. He has so many challenges to deal with already, I cant add exessive weight and physical issues that will result from it (as well as other health issues) Thanks for your input!

    • Hello Eileen,

      I read the description about your son and immediately felt heartache for him and your family. I have an adult son who never had the severe symptoms that your son has, but nevertheless has issues on the autistic spectrum and things have been difficult. Due to my own hypothyroidism, I have been urging him to stop eating gluten, as I have read many times that gluten affects the brain. After about six months, he finally agreed to try this week, and he wants to know how to navigate food selections when out with his friends who all eat the standard American diet. This is a huge step for him, but he is still eating dairy products which often may be just as damaging to many individuals.

      I really wish I had known more information when my son was younger. I only found out about gluten and thyroid connection in the last two years after reading a book by Dr.Kharrazian called “Why Do I Still Have Thyroid Symptoms”. It is an excellent book and many holistic minded doctors have been trained by Dr. K. I would encourage you to read the following link:

      http://drknews.com/autoimmune-gut-repair-diet/

      When my children were young, I fed them what I thought was a “healthy diet”. Those were the days before the internet, and I didn’t even know that many excellent books existed that would have told me that children need the right kind of fat and cholesterol for their brains. Instead I gave my children lowfat milk and cheese, lean cuts of meat, unfermented soy products (not good for the thyroid) and tried to convince them that whole wheat was superior. I had no idea that whole grains and beans needed a lot of soaking time to deactivate phytic acid in them. The phytic acid makes it difficult to absorb nutrients in the foods. I am sure that the bread and canned beans I bought were not soaked sufficiently to deactivate the phytic acid. I had no idea that organ meats were prized in many traditional societies for their health giving properties. I just thought organ meats were disgusting. To think about it now, I ate the same way when I was pregnant. My oldest is relatively healthy, but younger two needed glasses and both have/had health issues. We now eat lots of organic virgin cold pressed coconut oil, butter from grass fed cow milk, some olive oil
      and we usually only buy grass fed beef/lamb. Chicken and eggs are as much as possible from pastured sources, and we try only to buy organic produce when possible. We try to eat several servings of wild caught fish each week, and I make bone broth from meat/fish bones for the minerals and to promote gut healing. When we do buy milk, it is as much as possible whole raw milk that is so creamy and delicious. I know many people worry about possible contamination, but we researched our source and have every confidence that our dairy farmer uses best sanitary practices.

      It can be expensive to eat this way when compared to the cheap meats/fish from large corporate owned agribusinesses. But we don’t buy all sorts of processed and packaged foods, nor do we eat out much. I would rather know I am putting better quality food for my family to eat and put off purchasing something else. It is better for the environment as well, which ultimately affects our health.

      A great source of information for eating better and learning about health for me has been the
      Weston A. Price Foundation. Do you know about the GAPS diet (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) ?The following link will take you to an article written by Dr. McBride who started the GAPS diet. The article is in the Weston A. Price site.

      http://www.westonaprice.org/childrens-health/gaps

      Finally, please read the article by Dr. Peter Osborne, who has studied gluten and health issues extensively. Even if your son’s celiac test came back negative, there is a good chance he may have gluten sensitivity. There is a genetic test that can confirm that in the majority of people who are sensitive. However, it would be probably be worth getting your son and your family off of gluten.
      Here’s the link:

      glutenfreesociety.org/gluten-free-society-blog/the-many-heads-of-gluten-sensitivity/

      I know how daunting and scary it is to have to change so much. It is better just to do it as a family instead of trying to change for one person. Also, I would encourage you not to rely on the packaged, processed gluten free products. Most of them will spike blood sugar levels very high.

      I don’t have all the answers, but you do have a lot of support. There are a lot of parents trying to do the best for their kids and are constantly searching for answers. Please keep us posted.

      My very best to your son!

    • Eileen,
      Your son needs to be gluten free. He has autism, hypothyroid, digestive issues, AND dermatitis herpetiformis. These are all Celiac related.. Not to mention you have a family history.. Remove gluten ASAP! Celiac tests are not always accurate.. In fact, I would say they are inaccurate most of the time. I would look into all the autism diets such as GFCF (and soy free) and/or GAPS and/or SCD. Many people start out with GFCF, see tremendous improvements, but want further healing (of the gut) so they move on to GAPS and/or SCD. GFCF would be the easiest to start with. Some kids have to go soy free too. Definitely don’t turn to soy to fill the gluten/dairy void no matter what. It’s all GMO these days. And don’t beat yourself up about this.. My kids were 11, 8, 6, & 3 before I realized we had a massive problem with gluten. They were diagnosed with everything under the sun, but tested negative for Celiac. Two years later after going gluten free, they have lost most of their diagnoses and are doing FABULOUS. My youngest is now recovered from autism. Mainstream medicine is failing our children, but we don’t have to. Be your child’s expert because no one else will be.

  14. I have started the paleo program, and am wondering if eating dates and sweet potatoes is off limits. sugar is my downfall,and I seem to need some sweets in my program. Thanks Mike

    • Those aren’t off-limits, but if you know you react to them, might be best to limit them.

  15. Earlier this summer I was diagnosed with Lyme disease. I had the bullseye rash for two short days. Thankfully, I had taken a picture to show my doctor so I could be properly diagnosed. I did one round of the doxycycline, which was miserable but necessary. After a couple of months I was still exhausted and my joints still hurt. I went back to the doctor, begging for answers. I was tested for everything. The result came back, and my TSH levels were extraordinarily high. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. All consulting doctors believe the Lyme virus attacked my thyroid. Does this mean I have autoimmune thyroid disease? My doctor didn’t mention any change of diet. He simply said I had to take levothyroxine for the rest of my life, along with regular testing to ensure the dosage is correct. He did say I could gain weight more easily. Should I be concerned with cutting gluten out of my diet? Thanks in advance for your input on this. It’s all so new to me. I was only diagnosed with hypothyroidism two months ago.

    Thanks again,
    Alicia

  16. Very interesting article. I have just been diagnosed with Graves disease (in the last 4 days). I had one doctor tell me to eliminate gluten, another tell me to go gluten free and another tell me to not change my diet at all. To be honest I am totally and utterly confused. Will going gluten free help my Graves and who should I listen to?
    Thanks

    • Yes, gluten should be eliminated especially in cases of autoimmune disease, because it is an inflammatory protein. But you need to take additional steps to address your immune system.

      • Hi Chris,
        Thanks for the reply. I am also taking Neo-mercazole (carbinazole) tablets, 5 mg, 3 times a day and zinc tablets.
        When I was looking for gluten free products in my supermarket, I found gluten free spagetti (gluten, wheat, dairy, egg, yeast, soy free) and also gluten free toasted corn crispbread (same things free). What are your thought on these products in relation to Graves? (We don’t have alot of variety in Gluten free products in Australia)
        I had one doctor tell me not to eat any gluten free products for my Graves as they didn’t work. He wan’t to put me on a pure lean red mean (unseasoned), eggs, chicken breast, apples and oranges. He said that that would be my diet for the rest of my life. No normal human can live on such a bland diet.
        Thanks again for your time.

        • Hi Jade,

          I am also in Australia and was diagnosed with Graves 6 years ago and have been on and off Neomercazole since then. I trusted that my endocrinologist knew best and sat back waiting for it to take it’s course and burn out. I was advised after my first (and second and third !) relapse that I should have radio-active iodine treatment. I laughed and asked the Dr if they were still researching it as it sounded archaic! Thankfully I didn’t have it done as since this time, there has been further research into the longer term problems associated with this treatment. About a year ago I read a book that first brought the gluten connection to auto-immune thyroid disease to my attention. It was like a light had gone on. Despite not having what I would call ‘symptoms’ (read: Pain) after consuming gluten, I thought I’d try it out. I have been on a bit of a health journey this year with allergy testing to confirm things and going back on gluten (negative results), then eliminating gluten again after reading some more books. I have now been off gluten for almost 3 months and am starting to notice that I really did have symptoms after all (a recent trip to a restaurant where ingredients were not identified gave me instant reactions). I am becoming more attuned to my body’s reactions to things. I have read so many conflicting opinions and had different drs tell me different things, I have decided to listen to my body and keep researching. After eliminating gluten and dairy, I had a month or so of feeling just awful; think it was a bit of a detox. I now feel much better generally – more energy, much calmer, happier etc. I would recommend you shop around for GF products – different Coles or Woolies have different ranges, so try all the ones in your area. Also look things up on the internet – many companies sell online and will deliver GF products. Alternatively, don’t look for a GF replacement, look at meals that are naturally GF – stir fries, meat with salad and vegies etc You’ll find after a while (and it can be a bit of a rollercoaster) that you don’t crave or even miss gluten based products. Best of luck!

          • Hi Nic, thanks for the advice. I have 2 specialists appointment on the 14th December 2011. It will be interesting what they say. Personally I would prefer to stay on the Neo-mercazole (carbinazole) as I have been informed that even if you have the radio-iodine or the thyroid removed you are still required to stay on meds for the hypo-thyroidism that comes after those 2 treatments. I have now been gluten and caffine free for 30 days! I am so proud of myself. Have shopped around in Coles and Woolworths. Both have different but great products (I love the Woolworths gluten free chocolate cake mix :)). And have also found gluten free ice-cream in Woolworths. It’s funny what you say about accidently eating gluten and feeling sick. My mum has been on the diet with me (great support!). Last night she ate a meal containing gluten and was very ill afterwards. There was nothing else in the meal that would have made her sick. Coincidence? I don’t think so 🙂

          • Hi Nic

            I have similar story…

            I was diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism ( Grave Disease ) in year of 2003. I have been on Neo-Carbimazole for about 9 years. Everytime when I dropped medicine to half tablet a week then the symptom comes back.

            So my specialist asked me to go ahead with I131 treatment. I have almost made my decision until I saw your post above. I really appreicate this.

            Is possible to have your TEL No. so I can call you to have a chat ? My # is 02 8718 2082, and my email is [email protected]

            Thanks very much for your time and help.

            Kind regards

            Mark

  17. I’ve been off wheat almost 6 months and feel a lot better. Still not clear about whether oats contain gluten or not……….. I follow the D’Adamo blood type diet, am a type O.

  18. Bethany, being gluten intolerant since 10 years I know that there is not room for any mistakes, not even rarely. It takes the intestines upp to six months to heal after being subjected to gluten, so one mistake every six months is enough for your daughters body to experience a non-gluten free diet. Maybe this can be what’s happening? As far as I know, nothing else than gluten in her diet can cause that test result.

  19. My daughter has been gluten free for two years. We are very careful to avoid cross contamination. She has her own toaster, butter, peanut butter, etc. The whole family eats gluten free dinners 80% of the time. When we have burgers, she uses Udi’s buns. Again, we do not cross-contaminate. We are so careful. She just had a blood panel done for anti-bodies. Since she has had virtually no gluten in two years (some mistakes have been made – but rarely) we expected the anti-bodies to be non-existant. However, her test results showed that she eats gluten regularly. She does not! If she did, we all would know. It causes pain and changes her personality. What else could cause this?

    • Bethany, from all the research I have been doing, all grains contain some form of gluten. It was a very difficult realization for me to know that to get well I would have to even give up my favorite comfort food, rice. The challenge comes in staying away from the gluten as it is ubiquitous. Supplements often contain rice in some form as a filler. It is true, the best thing to do is to not eat anything processed. When you go out, you have to consider what goes into things like soup, dressings, sauces. It is a daunting task. Good luck!

      • Kathryn: rice does not contain gluten. I’m not sure what research you’re referring to, but I’d like to see it.

        • I would be so so happy if I could still eat rice, but thought that going grain free might make me heal faster from the Hashimoto’s related hypothyroidism (recent TSH was 13), anemia, hypoglycemia, eczema, and adrenal fatigue.
          I based my comment on rice having gluten because apparently although a very low amount, rice has a prolamine called orzenine, and prolamine is a subfraction of gluten. Corn has a much higher amount of prolamin called zein. Perhaps there is not enough research in this area because rice is not known sensitivities. I am getting this information from:

          http://www.glutenfreesociety.org/video-tutorial/gluten-sensitivity-what-is-it/

          There was one study mentioned in the above tutorial video that was on rice sensitivity:

          http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18957470

          I am really interested in learning as much as possible, so I am anxious to hear your opinion. And I am dying to eat sushi! Love your site!

        • My understanding is that most grains contain gluten e.g. corn and oats and even the non-grain buckwheat does. Each of these glutens has its own name as mentioned above in Kathryn’s post where examples have been given. The gluten is wheat is gliadin and I think there are other glutens in there too. We used gluten in a simplistic and inccurate umbrella manner to describe the glutens in wheat, rye and barley which actually have their own specific names. It’s a bit of baby talk really to call gliadin and the other culprits gluten when there are a multitude of glutens out there.