Liver and Hashimoto's (Part 1)

The thyroid gland and immune system are closely linked to liver function. The liver not only participates in thyroid hormone metabolism but also regulates inflammatory processes, detoxification, and immune responses. If the liver functions poorly, it can intensify autoimmune processes in Hashimoto's and worsen disease symptoms.

Liver and thyroid hormones

The liver participates in converting thyroxine (T4) into active triiodothyronine (T3) – the main thyroid hormone.If the liver is overloaded with toxins or inflamed (for example, due to toxins, improper nutrition, alcohol consumption, fatty liver disease, nutrient deficiencies), then T4 to T3 conversion decreases, leading to fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, and other hypothyroid symptoms.

Kupffer cells – defenders of the immune system

The liver has special immune cells – Kupffer cells, which play an important role in the immune system. Think of them as security guards at a checkpoint who examine everyone entering the body and decide who to let through and who to destroy.

They capture and destroy toxins, bacteria, and damaged cells.

They participate in inflammation regulation – suppressing excessive immune system activity, preventing autoimmune attacks.

They help distinguish "self from non-self", reducing the risk of aggressive attacks on the body's own tissues.

If the liver is overloaded with toxins or inflamed, Kupffer cells cannot fully perform their function. They lose the ability to distinguish between "self" and "foreign", stop effectively neutralizing toxins and destroying bacteria. As a result, inflammation in the body increases, which can trigger an autoimmune reaction.

How to distinguish one problem from another?

• ‍If you have more hypothyroid symptoms (fatigue, constant feeling of cold, swelling, weight gain, constipation, dry skin) – the problem is likely in T4 → T3 conversion.
• If you feel constant intoxication (allergies, skin rashes, bad body odor, headaches, swelling predominantly around the eyes, heaviness after eating), as well as inflammatory processes (irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut, gastritis, reflux, etc.) – most likely, Kupffer cells are overloaded.
• If there is a combination of both types of symptoms, then most likely, both Kupffer cells and T4 to T3 conversion are suffering.

In upcoming posts, we'll look at practical steps to help your liver and body.