Natural Strategies to Lower Thyroid Antibodies
- Naomi Rogan Naturopath
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
What are thyroid antibodies
The immune system protects us through two main defenses: the innate and adaptive systems.
The adaptive immune system produces antibodies to target viruses and bacteria—but in autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, these antibodies mistakenly attack the body’s own tissues. In Hashimoto’s, the immune system targets the thyroid gland, producing thyroid autoantibodies such as anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (Tg) antibodies.
These are triggered when inflammation and cell damage in the thyroid cause the release of enzymes and proteins, leading to further immune responses. This ongoing attack impairs thyroid hormone production, slowing down many vital body functions.
What causes elevated antibodies?
Thyroid antibodies can be triggered by a combination of environmental and lifestyle factors that disrupt immune balance.
Poor gut health, including imbalanced gut bacteria and leaky gut, plays a major role by confusing the immune system into attacking the thyroid. Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease can worsen this by contributing to intestinal permeability.
Nutritional insufficiencies—particularly in zinc, vitamin D, vitamin A, and selenium—are also linked to increased antibody production. Chronic stress and unresolved trauma can further disrupt immune regulation, gut health, and hormone function, amplifying the risk of autoimmunity.
Supplements that may help:
Certain supplements have been shown to effectively reduce thyroid antibodies, improve thyroid function, and support immune balance:
Selenium (200 mcg/day) + Myo-Inositol (600 mg/day): This combination significantly reduces anti-TPO and anti-Tg antibodies, improves TSH levels, and protects the thyroid from oxidative stress.
Vitamin D (2000–4000 IU/day): Essential for immune regulation and reducing thyroid antibodies. Deficiency is linked to higher risk and severity of Hashimoto’s. Ideal blood levels are 50–80 ng/dL.
Natural Strategies for Lowering Thyroid Antibodies
Whether or not you're taking thyroid medication, it's possible to reduce—and sometimes normalise—thyroid antibody levels with natural approaches.
Here’s how:
Eliminate Food Triggers (Especially Gluten) - Gluten is a common trigger for autoimmune thyroid issues and can be hidden in sauces, condiments, deli meats, and even personal care products. Going 100% gluten-free requires vigilance, but it can significantly reduce antibody production.
Manage Stress Effectively - Chronic stress can weaken immune function and worsen autoimmunity. Incorporate daily calming rituals—like meditation, deep breathing, or time in nature—to help reset your stress response and support thyroid health.
Heal Your Gut - Your gut and immune system are closely linked. Avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, try an elimination diet to remove inflammatory foods, and support gut repair with probiotics (10+ billion CFUs), fermented foods, and soothing supplements like DGL licorice, aloe vera, and turmeric.
Reduce Inflammation - Inflammation can confuse the immune system and lead to autoimmunity. Support your body with anti-inflammatory herbs like curcumin (from turmeric) and adaptogens like ashwagandha, which also helps support thyroid function.
Avoid Environmental Toxins - Limit exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals by ditching plastics, canned foods, and non-stick cookware. Choose natural cleaning and personal care products.
Identify Hidden Infections - Chronic viral infections like Epstein-Barr may trigger or worsen thyroid autoimmunity. If suspected, work with a knowledgeable practitioner to identify and treat any underlying stealth infections.
Next steps
Curious to learn more about natural strategies for managing your thyroid health? Book in for a free discovery call with our head Naturopath Naomi Rogan here.
