The aim of the thesis was to increase the knowledge of both individuals and healthcare professionals on how good nutrition can contribute to the well-being of people with hypothyroidism and celiac disease. The purpose of the thesis was to produce a concise but informative guide for the commissioner, the Finnish Thyroid Association and its members. The aim of the guide was to promote self-care and act as peer assistance. Key themes of the thesis were hypothyroidism, celiac disease, nutritional therapy, promoting quality of life and health.

Nutrition is part of the treatment of celiac disease. Good nutrition can affect quality of life, functional capacity and health. Nursing aims to motivate and encourage an individual's own ability to take care of their health as well as their condition. The thesis examines how to support people's quality of life, from the point of view of nursing and patient organisations. It is noted that for the treatment of hypothyroidism, nutrition is not very crucial, whereas in the treatment of celiac disease it is one of the cornerstones of treatment. Healthy and varied gluten-free diet will improve mucosal damage.

The thesis was commissioned by the Finnish Thyroid Association, whose mission is to educate, inform and strengthen patient self-care. The background of the thesis includes a discussion of activities activities of patient organisations, such as peer support and development of research work. In addition, the training for health professionals provided by patient organisations is examined in the background of the thesis.