Autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s disease and Graves disease affect millions globally, often silently disrupting hormonal balance and overall well-being. Though commonly overlooked or misdiagnosed, these conditions can have a profound impact on energy levels, weight, cardiovascular health, gut function, mental clarity, and even vision. In Episode 10 of the IQ Podcast titled Eye on Thyroid – Natural Approaches, Dr. Rudrani Banik sits down with renowned functional medicine expert Dr. Eric Osansky to explore integrative, root-cause strategies for understanding and managing these prevalent disorders.

“There’s always a cause. It might be complex and involve multiple factors—but there is always a root cause worth finding.” — Dr. Eric Osansky

Autoimmune thyroid conditions are far from rare. In fact, up to 15% of women and 5% of men may experience some form of thyroid autoimmunity during their lifetime. Hashimoto’s disease typically results in hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), while Graves disease leads to hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Graves disease, in particular, often manifests with a constellation of symptoms including:

Despite the widespread nature of these symptoms, many patients go undiagnosed or are treated only symptomatically.

Traditional medicine often focuses on symptom management—using medications like thyroid hormone replacement or antithyroid drugs. Functional medicine, in contrast, seeks to identify and treat the underlying root causes of disease.

As Dr. Osansky explains: “Functional medicine is about addressing the why, not just the what. We look at the body as an interconnected system—adrenals, gut, stress, toxins—all play a role in thyroid health.”

Through his own experience being diagnosed with Graves disease in 2008, Dr. Osansky discovered the power of an integrative, natural approach. Since entering remission in 2009, he has dedicated his career to helping others do the same.

Many patients are told their thyroid is “fine” based on a single TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test. However, diagnosing autoimmune thyroid disorders requires a more comprehensive panel. Important markers include:

Without these markers, autoimmune conditions can be easily missed.

Dr. Osansky emphasizes that autoimmune thyroid disorders don’t occur in a vacuum. They’re often triggered by one or more of the following:

Functional medicine testing can include:

While these may not be ordered by conventional practitioners, they are key tools in an integrative approach.

Nutrition plays a foundational role in reversing thyroid autoimmunity. Dr. Osansky recommends a temporary elimination diet such as the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) or Paleo to identify food triggers.

Common culprits include:

Dr. Banik points out that these therapeutic diets are typically followed for around three months, which aligns with the lifespan of immune cells. Afterward, foods can be reintroduced one at a time to assess reactivity.

The gut-thyroid connection is critical. Up to 70–80% of the immune system resides in the gut. Healing the gut often leads to improvements in thyroid symptoms. Dr. Osansky recommends the Five R Protocol for gut repair:

While some patients may start with dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications on their own, Dr. Osansky urges individuals to partner with a knowledgeable provider—especially when symptoms persist or lab results are unclear.

Resources like IFM.org (Institute for Functional Medicine) can help patients locate certified practitioners in their area.

Autoimmune thyroid conditions can be daunting—but they are not a life sentence. With the right tools, testing, and guidance, remission and long-term health are achievable. “There is hope. Medication may be part of the journey, but understanding and addressing the root causes—that’s how lasting healing happens.” — Dr. Eric Osansky

For eye care professionals, it’s crucial to stay attuned to thyroid-related symptoms—especially when patients present with unexplained vision changes, fatigue, or systemic issues. Encouraging comprehensive testing and collaborative care can make all the difference.