iThei mdcdaelcinfd o c elllllrllll ThofthThsework can all cause sleep deprivation. Sleep is the reset button for the HPA
axis. When we sleep, the body releases human growth hormone and repairs
itself. Make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep each night and be tested
for sleep apnea if you snore. Sleep apnea can be a potential root cause of
Hashimoto’s and adrenal fatigue.
Inflammation
Chronic inflammation may result from joint pain, obesity, toxic bur-
den, GI tract inflammation, irritable bowel disorder, pathogens in the
GI tract, or food allergies. These conditions signal cortisol for its anti-
inflammatory effect.
HPA Dysfunction and Autoimmunity
Some researchers believe HPA axis dysfunction and prolonged cortisol
elevation may be the cause, rather than the consequence, of autoimmune
diseases. A natural steroid, cortisol suppresses cellular immunity (Th1),
preventing tissue damage from excessive inflammation.
Low cortisol allows for up-regulation of cellular immunity (Th1 domi-
nance), resulting in increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines
TNF-A, IL-6, and IL-12. During Th1 dominance, the Th2 branch (hu-
moral immunity) is suppressed. This may lead to the person becoming
more susceptible to parasites, allergens, bacteria, and toxins. Th1 domi-
nance is often seen in autoimmune conditions.
Thus, the immune system may get thrown out of balance in times of
excess cortisol production as well as when cortisol is depleted. Pregnant
women’s cortisol was measured at week thirty-six of gestation. Those with
low cortisol levels were more likely to develop postpartum thyroiditis.
The hormone DHEA also has effects on the immune system, increasing
Th1 and decreasing Th2 cell production.
Stress, along with nutritional deficiencies and intestinal permeability,
may be at the root cause of Hashimoto’s and may perpetuate the disease
progression.