I’m Taking Thyroid Medication… So Why Do I Still Feel Awful?

I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis quite a few years ago, and like many people, I was prescribed thyroid hormone replacement—levothyroxine. I thought that would be the fix. My labs started looking “normal,” but I didn’t feel normal. I was still exhausted, foggy, gaining weight without explanation, and constantly battling mood swings. It felt like my body was betraying me, even though I was doing everything “right.”

So I started digging. And what I found changed everything.

Hashimoto’s Isn’t Just a Thyroid Problem

What I didn’t realize at first is that Hashimoto’s is actually an autoimmune condition. My immune system is attacking my thyroid, and the medication only replaces the hormones—it doesn’t stop the attack. That’s why symptoms can persist even when your TSH levels look fine.

I learned that healing Hashimoto’s requires a whole-body approach. Here’s what I’ve been trying—and what’s actually helping.

1. Tackling Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a huge part of autoimmune disease. I started by cutting out gluten and dairy, which are common triggers for people with Hashimoto’s. I also added more anti-inflammatory foods like wild salmon, berries, turmeric, and leafy greens. Within weeks, I noticed less joint pain and fewer energy crashes.

 2. Supporting My Gut

I kept reading that 70–80% of the immune system lives in the gut. That blew my mind. I did a food sensitivity test, through the hospital, and discovered I had issues with salicylates. I also started taking a high-quality probiotic and added bone broth to my routine. My digestion improved, and surprisingly, so did my brain fog.

3. Checking Nutrient Levels

Even though I was taking thyroid meds, my body was still low in key nutrients. I got tested and found out I was deficient in:

• Selenium

• Zinc

• Vitamin D

• B12

I added targeted supplements (with guidance from a functional medicine practitioner), and it made a noticeable difference in my energy and mood.

4. Managing Stress (For Real)

I used to roll my eyes at the idea that stress could affect my thyroid. But cortisol plays a huge role in hormone balance. I started doing breathwork, journaling, and walking outside daily. I also made sleep a priority—no more scrolling at midnight. It’s not perfect, but I feel more grounded and less reactive.

5. Rethinking My Medication

This one was tricky. I learned that some people don’t convert T4 (levothyroxine) into T3 (the active hormone) efficiently. I spoke with my doctor about trying a combination therapy that includes T3, and it’s been a game-changer. If your symptoms persist, it’s worth exploring options like natural desiccated thyroid or compounded meds.

Final Thoughts

If you’re living with Hashimoto’s and still feel awful despite taking your meds, you’re not crazy—and you’re definitely not alone. Your body is asking for deeper support. For me, healing has been about listening, researching, and making small but powerful changes.

I’m still on the journey, but I finally feel like I’m moving forward—not just surviving.