Autoimmune Thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s), Greespi, and Nutrient Deficiencies: A Detailed Guide

Author: Tata Grabovska

~ 8 min read

07 April 2025

1. Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Connection and Antiviral Effects

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) may be one of the triggers for Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Here's how it happens:

"Error" of the Immune System (Molecular Mimicry)

EBV has proteins (e.g., EBNA-1) that closely resemble thyroid proteins (thyroglobulin, TPO).

When the immune system fights the virus, it accidentally starts attacking the thyroid gland, as if it "confuses enemies."

Chronic Inflammation

EBV "activates" systemic inflammation in the body (via NF-κB, a key "switch" of inflammation).

In 81% of Hashimoto's patients, EBV traces are found in the thyroid gland—an indicator of prolonged viral activity.

Immune System Hijacking

The virus reprograms B-lymphocytes (cells responsible for producing antibodies against infections).

As a result, they start producing autoantibodies (anti-TPO, anti-TG), which form the basis of the autoimmune process.

Why Doesn't Everyone with EBV Develop Hashimoto's?

Additional conditions are required:

  • Genetics: Predisposition to autoimmune diseases.

  • Deficiencies: Lack of selenium, zinc, vitamin D (which help regulate immune activity).

  • Gut Health: Dysbiosis or "leaky gut" increases inflammation.

  • Stress: Physical or emotional stress amplifies all processes.

Antiviral Properties of Greespi

How Does Greespi Affect EBV?

1. Direct Inhibition of Viral Replication

Sulfated polysaccharides (Ca-SP) in Greespi block the virus from entering cells, reducing its infectivity by 60-80% (data from the U.S. National Cancer Institute, NCI).

Phycocyanobilin (a blue pigment) disrupts the formation of new viral particles, reducing their replication.

2. Cell Protection Against Damage

The cytopathic effect (cell destruction caused by EBV) is significantly reduced due to the antioxidant properties of Greespi's bioactive compounds.

In vitro studies show that these bioactive compounds reduce apoptosis (programmed death) of infected cells.

3. Modulation of Immune Response

  • Increases NK cell activity (natural killers) that destroy EBV-infected cells.

  • Reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α), limiting autoimmune reactions.

Why Is This Important for Hashimoto's?

Chronic EBV infection enhances the production of TPO/TG antibodies through molecular mimicry.

A diet supplemented with Greespi helps break this cycle by reducing viral load.

2. Key Deficiencies in Hashimoto's: What Is Really Lacking?

(a) Major Deficiencies (Confirmed by Research)

Nutrient Role in AIT Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin D Regulates immune tolerance, reduces TPO antibodies Fatigue, depression, frequent infections
Selenium Protects the thyroid from oxidative stress, converts T4 → T3 Hair loss, weakness, thyroid enlargement
Zinc Essential for TSH synthesis Dry skin, poor wound healing
Iron/B12 Deficiency causes anemia, worsening hypothyroidism Pallor, dizziness, cold extremities
Magnesium Reduces resistance to thyroid hormones Muscle cramps, insomnia, anxiety
Omega-3 Lowers TNF-α (inflammation marker) Dry eyes, brittle nails

(b) Why Do Deficiencies Occur?

  • Atrophic gastritis (common in AIT) → Impaired absorption of B12, iron.

  • Gut dysbiosis → Reduced absorption of zinc, magnesium.

  • Chronic inflammation → Increased nutrient loss.

3. Greespi as a Source of Vitamins and Minerals for AIT

In a highly bioavailable form, Greespi contains:

Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin) – crucial for patients with anemia.

✅ Iron (in bioavailable form) – does not cause constipation like pharmaceutical supplements.

✅ Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) – helps reduce anxiety (a common symptom in AIT).

✅ Phycocyanin – a powerful antioxidant that reduces thyroid damage.

✅ 70% protein content – supports muscles in hypothyroidism.

Important: Greespi does not replace medications but complements therapy, especially in cases of deficiencies.

Full nutrient composition → here

How Does Greespi Improve Gut Health?

The gut is a key link in autoimmune reactions, and Greespi consumption significantly improves its condition.

1. Restoring the Microbiome

Prebiotic Effect

Greespi contains polysaccharides that nourish beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium).

Regular consumption increases microbiota diversity by 25-30%.

Pathogen Suppression

The powerful antioxidant phycocyanin has antibacterial effects against Helicobacter pylori and Candida albicans—common causes of dysbiosis in AIT.

2. Strengthening Gut Epithelium

🔹 Reducing "Leaky Gut" Syndrome

Polysaccharides lower LPS (lipopolysaccharides)—toxins that enter the bloodstream through a damaged intestinal lining.

This helps reduce systemic inflammation and excessive immune activation.

🔹 Stimulating Mucin Production

Amino acids (e.g., proline) in Greespi aid in restoring the protective mucosal layer.

3. Detoxification and Liver Protection

Chlorophyll and phycocyanobilin bind toxins (heavy metals, biphenols) and accelerate their elimination. Chlorophyll blocks toxin absorption in the intestine, reducing their bioavailability.

Why Is This Critically Important for Autoimmune Thyroiditis?

  • Heavy metals (e.g., mercury) disrupt T4 → T3 conversion and enhance autoimmune reactions.

  • Biphenols disrupt hormonal balance, worsening Hashimoto's symptoms. These chemicals, especially bisphenol A (BPA), act as endocrine disruptors.

4. Practical Recommendations

How to Take Greespi for AIT?

  • Start with 1 sachet per day (to check tolerance).

  • Optimal dose: 2 sachets per day (split into 2 doses).

  • Important: In cases of hyperactive immune response, limit to 1 sachet per day.

You can find full instructions here.

Conclusion:

Greespi is a powerful aid in Hashimoto's due to:

  • Antiviral action (against EBV).
  • Saturation with critical nutrients (iron, B12, selenium, zinc, powerful antioxidants).
  • Intestinal support and detoxification.

References:

  1. Arthrospira platensis as future food: a review on functional ingredients, bioactivities and application in the food industry . Mengwei Chang, Kunlun Liu International Journal of Food Science and Technology, Volume 59, Issue 3, March 2024, Pages 1197–1212, Published: 26 December 2023 Article history

  2. Hayashi, T., Hayashi, K Maedaa M, & Kojima, I. (1996). Calcium spirulan, an inhibitor of enveloped virus replication, from a blue green alga Spirulina platensis. J Nat Prod.59:83-87.

  3. Gustafson, K.R, Cardellina, J.H II, Fuller, R.W, WeslowO.S, Kiser, R.F, Snader, K.M, Paterson, G.M, & Boyd, M.R (1989). AIDS-antiviral sulfolipids from cyanobacteria (blue green algae). J Natl Cancer Inst81: 1254-1258.

  4. Abdulmumin A. Nuhu (2013). (Arthrospira): An Important Source of Nutritional and Medicinal Compounds, Journal of Marine Biology, Volume 2013, Article ID 325636, 8.

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