Underactive Thyroid and IBS
Contents
Hypothyroidism has consequences on the entire body, affecting many systems and their proper function, including de nervous system or the digestive system. Despite the fact that there is no direct link between underactive thyroid and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), many people complain of digestive disorders during hypotrhyroidism, not knowing exactly if these diseases can coexist or if they are inter caused.
Underactive thyroid symptoms
Unexplained fatigue, foggy mind, constipation, weight gain and hair loss are all signs of thyroid problems. The same is true for the opposite symptoms: sweating and anxiety. Severe constipation is frequently associated with hypothyroidism, while diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome are more specific to hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism & digestive system
Effects of hypothyroidism on digestion are recently studied by different researchers. According to doctor’s experience, in servere cases of underactive thyroid, a slow movement of the esophagus may occur. This can lead to dyspepsia, dysphagia or gastroparesis.
People suffering from both underactive thyroid and IBS often accuse symptoms of constipation, bloating, and rarely diarrhea.
These symptoms are caused by a small intestine bacteria overgrowth, also known as SIBO. All patiens with IBS and Hashimoto thyroid shoul know that they are at higher risk of celiac disease.
Underactive thyroid and IBS diet
In order to prevent worsening of IBS, underactive thyroid patients should take their medicine and follow the medical therapy prescribed by the physician. Constipation is the most important digestive problem to solve or try to prevent in IBS.
> Eat more dietary fiber
To manage the symptoms of IBS, one must increase the intake of dietary fiber. High fiber foods are: corn, white, black and kidney beans, avocado, edamame, lentils, brown rice, oatmeal, whole bread and pastas, pears, raspberries and artichoke.
However, in some cases, high fier food may interfere with the body’s absorbtion of drugs capacity. Doctors say to take your underactive thyroid medicine on empty stomach.
