Ayurvedic Diet in Myxedema

Primary hypothyroidism is diagnosed by elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level and a reduced thyroxine (T4) level in plasma. Some of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, weight gain and reduced cognition and is associated with reduced quality of life and increased days of sick leave. Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of T4, is clinically recommended as first-line treatment for hypothyroidism. When normalizing TSH/T4 with levothyroxine, the prevalence of persistent symptoms is present in 15% of patients. The composition of our gut bacteria, the microbiome, plays a significant role for a healthy thyroid gland and metabolism and is influenced by our diet. The Indian medical system, Ayurveda, is based on generations of experience and knowledge in disease prevention and treatment, including various diet plans, exercise and lifestyles that are put into context for physical and mental health. Ayurveda works with four different types of digestion and is based on a vegetarian diet. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of an Ayurvedic diet plan, as a supplement to medical treatment, among people with hypothyroidism.