Keto And Hypothyroidism: Is It A Bad Mix?

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that triggers the body's natural metabolic process known as ketosis. The diet has been proven to reduce the number of seizures in patients with epilepsy and shows promise for treating other chronic illnesses, including diabetes, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and cancer. Given its potential health benefits, it is important to consider whether the keto diet is suitable for people with hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to a slowdown in bodily processes. Research shows that women and those with autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop hypothyroidism, which can be further provoked by chronic stress. The keto diet can be beneficial for people with hypothyroidism as it reduces inflammation and modulates the immune response. However, it is important to proceed with caution as achieving ketosis can be a strain on the adrenals, leading to reduced thyroid hormone levels and increased cortisol levels, which can further decrease thyroid function.

Some studies have found that the keto diet may slow the conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 into its active form, T3, which is responsible for the thermogenic and metabolic effects of thyroid hormones. This reduction in T3 levels could potentially negate the weight loss effects of the keto diet. Additionally, prolonged ketosis can lead to increased inflammation, which is already a concern for people with thyroid diseases, especially those with Graves' or Hashimoto's disease.

Overall, while the keto diet can be followed by people with hypothyroidism, it is important to be cautious and monitor thyroid function closely. It is recommended to consult a doctor and get the necessary tests done before starting the keto diet, especially if one is already experiencing symptoms of low thyroid function, such as weight gain, fatigue, and hair loss.

Ketogenic diets can help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, which is beneficial for thyroid conditions

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that triggers the body's natural metabolic process known as "ketosis". Ketosis occurs when the body is deprived of its natural fuel source, glucose, and is forced to use stored fat as fuel instead. This process involves the breakdown of stored fat into "ketones", a type of fatty acid, which are then sent into the bloodstream to be used as fuel by the muscles and other tissues.

The keto diet has been found to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, particularly when it comes to the thyroid. Carbohydrates and sugars are highly inflammatory foods, and the keto diet works to eliminate these foods, which can feed inflammation. Inflammation is a common issue for people with thyroid conditions, as most people with thyroid diseases suffer from chronic inflammation, especially if they have Graves' or Hashimoto's disease.

The keto diet can also be a major strain on the adrenals, as reduced carb intake leads to a decrease in thyroid hormone levels and an increase in cortisol, which further decreases thyroid function. This can be problematic for people with hypothyroidism, as chronic stress can provoke hypothyroidism by flooding the body with stress hormones, causing thyroid activity to slow down.

However, the keto diet has been found to offer tremendous benefits for people with thyroid conditions as well. It can help with weight loss, boost energy levels, improve cholesterol levels, and control blood sugar. Additionally, the keto diet can help manage chronic pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress within the nervous system.

Overall, while the keto diet may offer some benefits for people with thyroid conditions, it is important to proceed with caution and consult a healthcare professional before starting this diet, especially if you have hypothyroidism.

Keto diets can cause a decrease in thyroid hormone levels, which may worsen symptoms for people with thyroid conditions

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that triggers the body's natural metabolic process known as "ketosis". This process is characterised by elevated levels of ketones in the body. While in a state of ketosis, the liver produces ketones from fat, which then serve as a fuel source for the body and brain.

The keto diet is generally considered beneficial for people with thyroid conditions, as it reduces inflammation and modulates the immune response. However, there are some concerns to be aware of when combining keto and hypothyroidism.

Firstly, reduced insulin levels may affect the body's ability to convert the inactive thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) to the active thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3). This conversion is necessary to turn the thyroid hormone into its active form. When insulin levels are too low, it can inhibit the liver's ability to convert T4 to T3, resulting in reduced availability of usable thyroid hormone in the body.

Secondly, prolonged ketosis can lead to increased acidity in the body, which can spur inflammation. Many people with hypothyroidism already struggle with chronic inflammation, and adding an overly acidic diet may exacerbate this issue.

Additionally, reduced carb intake can lead to decreased thyroid hormone levels and increased cortisol levels, further decreasing thyroid function and placing more strain on the adrenals. This can be particularly problematic if adrenal fatigue is one of the primary triggers of hypothyroidism.

Therefore, while keto can offer benefits for people with thyroid conditions, it is important to proceed with caution and consult a healthcare professional before starting this diet, especially if you have hypothyroidism.

Insulin is important for the liver's ability to make the active thyroid hormone T3 from T4

Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the pancreas and is essential for the body's ability to use glucose from carbohydrates for energy. It is also important for the liver's ability to make the active thyroid hormone T3 from T4.

T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) are the two main hormones produced by the thyroid gland. T3 is the active form of the hormone, while T4 is the inactive form. The liver converts T4 into T3 through a process called deiodination. This process is necessary because T3 is the form of the hormone that can be used by the body.

Insulin plays a role in this conversion process. When insulin levels are too low, it can inhibit the liver's ability to convert T4 to T3. This can lead to a decrease in the availability of usable thyroid hormone in the body. This is because T4 is relatively inactive and does not impact the body's cells in the same way that T3 does.

Therefore, insulin is important for the liver's ability to make the active thyroid hormone T3 from T4. Without adequate insulin levels, the conversion process may be impaired, leading to a decrease in active thyroid hormone levels in the body.

Keto diets can be a valuable tool for curbing weight gain, losing belly fat, and decreasing appetite

Keto diets as a tool for curbing weight gain, losing belly fat, and decreasing appetite

The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that can be a valuable tool for curbing weight gain, losing belly fat, and decreasing appetite. It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all dietary approach, and individual results may vary. Here are some ways in which keto diets can help with these issues:

Curbing weight gain

The keto diet can help curb weight gain by promoting weight loss. This is because the keto diet triggers a metabolic state called ketosis, where the body burns fat for energy instead of glucose. To reach ketosis, carbohydrate intake must be reduced, which can lead to weight loss. Additionally, keto diets can help reduce calorie intake and increase feelings of fullness compared to other weight-loss diets. However, it is important to ensure that calorie intake is not reduced too much, as this can slow metabolism and make weight loss more difficult in the long run.

Losing belly fat

The keto diet can also help with losing belly fat, which is a criterion for metabolic disease. By reducing carb intake and increasing fat burning, the keto diet promotes the loss of body fat, especially unhealthy abdominal fat. This can help improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Decreasing appetite

Keto diets have been found to reduce appetite and food intake. This is because keto diets are very filling due to the satiating effects of fat and protein. Additionally, keto diets can help improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to better fuel utilization and metabolism. By keeping blood sugar levels stable, keto diets can help reduce cravings and decrease appetite.

The keto diet may be harmful to thyroid function, especially in adults

Reducing carb intake can lead to decreased thyroid hormone levels and increased cortisol levels, further decreasing thyroid function. This can cause a vicious cycle, as increased cortisol levels can inhibit the liver's ability to convert the inactive thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) into the active thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3). Prolonged ketosis can also force the body to accumulate acid, leading to inflammation, which is already a common issue for people with thyroid diseases.

Several studies have shown that the keto diet can slow thyroid function in both children and adults. One study found that 17% of epileptic children on a keto diet were diagnosed with hypothyroidism, while another study found a trend towards decreased thyroid function in children on the diet for two years. Studies in adults have also shown a decrease in thyroid measurements, specifically a decline in the conversion of T4 to T3.

Overall, while the keto diet can be beneficial for weight loss and improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels, it may not be the best diet for those with hypothyroidism. The keto diet can potentially harm thyroid function and make it harder to regulate thyroid hormone levels. Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor before starting the keto diet, especially for those with thyroid conditions.

Frequently asked questions