Page 22 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

disease themselves. In addition, those with a twin that has the disease may have a much
more increased likelihood of developing the disease as well.

Environmental Indicators

Over the past century, the development of a wide range of toxins used in every day
substances may be contributing to the rise in autoimmune diseases. Iodine intake,
radiation exposure, stress, medications, smoking, certain infections, and exposure to
chemicals/toxins are all thought to be responsible for the rise in thyroid diseases like
Graves’ disease.

Many companies use toxic chemicals when manufacturing products we use every day. For
instance, flame retardants can be found in mattresses, clothing, carpets, strollers,
furniture, electronics, and even some foods. These dangerous substances are thought to
be “safe,” but have also been shown to increase the risk for thyroid diseases in some
studies. Many antibacterial soaps contained a substance called triclosan. This is a
substance once thought to be safe, but was recently discontinued.

Tricolsan has been shown to reduce thyroxine and disrupt the development of
amphibians in studies. Soy products are widespread, and although many people believe
them to be safe or even healthy, the truth is quite the opposite. Soy is one of the most
heavily sprayed crops. It also contains phytoestrogens that can disrupt hormone
production. These properties in soy have been shown to inhibit thyroid peroxidase
activity, thus increasing the likelihood of thyroid disease. It is best to avoid soy altogether.

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a substance used in the production of plastics. As you are probably
aware, many things we use on a daily basis are made of plastic. BPA has been shown to
possibly antagonize our thyroid hormone receptors, increasing the likelihood of issues.
Many plastic water bottles contain this dangerous chemical, and it can leach into the
water you drink. Leaving water bottles in a hot environment, like your car, and drinking
the water may be especially harmful when it comes to ingesting this substance.

Pesticides are used in the production of a staggering amount of the food we eat.
Organochlorine pesticides have been shown to negatively affect thyroid function in
several ways. Another every day toxic exposure includes cigarettes, which contain a
chemical called thiocyanate that may inhibit iodine intake. Perchlorate can be found in
some fertilizers, and may also inhibit iodine uptake.

Exposure to one of these things may not have negative results. However, the problem is
that many people are exposed to many of these substances on a daily basis. Chronic, long
term exposure can significantly impact thyroid function, as well as many other aspects of
our health.

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