Gluten, Hormones, and the Thyroid
Mascari, Brooke - February 3rd, 2025
Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, has become a growing concern in the wellness and functional medicine communities. While many associate gluten sensitivity with digestive issues, its impact extends far beyond the gut—particularly when it comes to hormone balance and thyroid health in women. Understanding how gluten interacts with the endocrine system can provide insight into why reducing or eliminating gluten may support hormonal harmony and optimal thyroid function.
Gluten and Hormone Imbalance
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating numerous bodily functions, including metabolism, reproduction, mood, and energy levels. However, gluten can disrupt hormone balance in several ways!
1. Gluten, Inflammation, and Cortisol Dysregulation
Chronic inflammation is one of the biggest threats to hormonal health, and gluten contributes to systemic inflammation in those sensitive to it. When the body perceives gluten as a threat, it triggers an immune response that increases inflammation, which in turn affects cortisol production. Cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, becomes dysregulated when inflammation is persistent, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, anxiety, and menstrual irregularities.
2. Impact on Estrogen Dominance
Women with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease may experience issues with estrogen metabolism. The gut microbiome plays a key role in breaking down and eliminating excess estrogen from the body. However, gluten-induced intestinal permeability (leaky gut) can compromise this process, allowing estrogen to recirculate rather than being properly excreted. This contributes to estrogen dominance, which is associated with conditions like PMS, heavy periods, fibroids, endometriosis, and even an increased risk of hormone-related cancers.
3. Insulin Resistance and Blood Sugar Imbalance
Gluten-containing foods are very often high in refined carbohydrates, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes and insulin resistance over time. Since insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose metabolism, its imbalance can lead to weight gain, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other metabolic disorders. Women with insulin resistance often experience difficulty losing weight, irregular menstrual cycles, and increased risk for diabetes.
Gluten’s Role in Thyroid Dysfunction
The thyroid is a vital gland responsible for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance. Unfortunately, gluten has been strongly linked to thyroid disorders, particularly in women, who are far more likely than men to experience thyroid dysfunction.
1. Gluten and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in women. Research has shown a strong connection between gluten sensitivity and autoimmune thyroid disease. Gluten proteins share a molecular similarity with thyroid tissue, which can lead to a phenomenon called molecular mimicry. When the immune system attacks gluten, it may mistakenly target the thyroid as well, exacerbating autoimmune thyroid conditions.
2. Leaky Gut and Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
Leaky gut syndrome, often triggered by gluten, is a major contributor to autoimmunity. When the intestinal lining becomes permeable, undigested food particles and toxins enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response. This increases the likelihood of developing autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease. Removing gluten from the diet has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve thyroid function in women with autoimmune thyroid disorders.
3. Gluten’s Effect on Nutrient Absorption
The thyroid relies on key nutrients such as iodine, selenium, and zinc to function properly. However, gluten-induced gut damage can impair the absorption of these essential nutrients, leading to deficiencies that further compromise thyroid health. Women with undiagnosed gluten sensitivity may struggle with persistent fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, and hair thinning—all of which are symptoms of an underactive thyroid.
Gluten in the USA: Bread, Glyphosate, and Added Ingredients
While gluten itself can contribute to hormonal and thyroid issues, the way wheat is processed in the United States exacerbates these problems. Unlike in Europe, much of the wheat used in U.S. bread and baked goods is sprayed with glyphosate, a common herbicide known to disrupt gut health and contribute to leaky gut syndrome. Studies have suggested that glyphosate can act as an endocrine disruptor, affecting hormone balance and thyroid function.
Additionally, many processed bread products in the U.S. contain added ingredients such as preservatives, dough conditioners, and synthetic vitamins that can interfere with digestion and metabolism. High fructose corn syrup and refined sugars, which are commonly added to commercial bread, contribute to insulin resistance and inflammation, further worsening hormonal imbalances.
For women struggling with hormone and thyroid issues, it may not just be gluten that is problematic but also the way it is cultivated and processed. Opting for organic, non-GMO, and European-sourced wheat products can reduce exposure to harmful additives and pesticides, minimizing potential negative health effects.
Should Women with Hormonal Imbalances Avoid Gluten?
While not everyone is sensitive to gluten, women with hormonal imbalances, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune conditions may benefit from a gluten-free diet. Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that eliminating gluten can help reduce inflammation, support gut health, and restore hormonal balance!
Steps to Support Hormone and Thyroid Health
Eliminate gluten: Try a gluten-free diet for around 30-60 days and track any changes in energy levels, digestion, and symptoms.
Support gut health: Include probiotics, fermented foods, and bone broth to heal the intestinal lining.
Balance blood sugar: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods to prevent insulin resistance. Add adequate protein, fiber, and healthy fats to your daily diet.
Monitor thyroid function: Get regular thyroid panel tests to assess hormone levels and antibodies.
Reduce stress: Manage cortisol levels through mindfulness, yoga, breathwork, and quality sleep.
Final Thoughts
Gluten’s impact on hormone balance and thyroid health in women is significant, particularly for those with underlying sensitivities or autoimmune conditions. By recognizing the connection between gluten, inflammation, and endocrine function, women can make informed dietary choices to support their hormonal and overall well-being. Whether dealing with irregular cycles, unexplained fatigue, or thyroid dysfunction, exploring a gluten-free lifestyle may be a beneficial step toward optimal health!