The many facets of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis (HT), a common autoimmune
disease marked by chronic thyroid gland inflammation that results in hypothyroidism,
are explained in this chapter. It emphasizes how genetic predisposition, environmental
variables, and immunological dysregulation interact intricately in the pathogenesis of
HT. The chapter highlights the emerging significance of the thyroid-gut axis,
emphasizing how gut dysbiosis, increased intestinal permeability, and microbiotaderived metabolites influence thyroid function and autoimmunity. It explores the roles
of inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and autoantibodies in exacerbating thyroid
dysfunction and systemic symptoms. Furthermore, the chapter explores the therapeutic
potential of secondary plant metabolites, particularly flavonoids, polyphenols, and
terpenoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory
properties. These metabolites are discussed in the context of their mechanisms of
action, including inhibition of pro-inflammatory enzymes, downregulation of NF-I-B
signaling, and modulation of immune cell activities. The chapter also addresses the
impact of dietary factors, such as gluten, dairy, and goitrogens, on thyroid health. It
provides practical dietary recommendations, emphasizing the inclusion of selenium,
zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and a variety of plant-based foods rich in beneficial
metabolites. This comprehensive review integrates current understanding of HT's
pathophysiology with emerging insights into the therapeutic potential of plant
metabolites, offering a foundation for future research and personalized nutritional
strategies in managing this complex autoimmune disorder.
Keywords: Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Autoimmune thyroiditis, Flavonoids, Gluten-free diet, Gut dysbiosis, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis (HT), Hypothyroidism, Immune-modulatory, Inflammatory cytokines, Intestinal permeability, NF-I-B signaling, Oxidative stress, Polyphenols, Secondary plant metabolites, Selenium, Terpenoids, Thyroid autoantibodies, Thyroid-gut axis, Zinc.
