Hypothyroidism (under active thyroid) is a
condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain
important hormones.
Women, especially those older than age 60,
are more likely to have hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism upsets the normal
balance of chemical reactions in your body. It seldom causes symptoms in the
early stages, but, over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of
health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease.
The good news is that accurate thyroid
function tests are available to diagnose hypothyroidism, and treatment of
hypothyroidism with synthetic thyroid hormone is usually simple, safe and
effective once you and your doctor find the right dose for you.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism
vary, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. But in general, any
problems you have tend to develop slowly, often over a number of years.
At first, you may barely notice the symptoms
of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue and weight gain, or you may simply attribute
them to getting older. But as your metabolism continues to slow, you may
develop more obvious signs and symptoms. Hypothyroidism signs and symptom may
include:
- Fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Unexplained weight gain
- Puffy face
- Hoarseness
- Muscle weakness
- Elevated blood cholesterol level
- Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
- Pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints
- Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
- Thinning hair
- Slowed heart rate
- Depression
- Impaired memory
Remedies
for Hypothyroidism
1.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil
has medium-chain fatty acids that boost up the functioning of thyroid. It also
stimulates metabolism, thus, enhancing the energy levels. You may add coconut
oil while cooking. Make sure to use extra-virgin organic coconut cooking oil.
In addition, you can also add 2 tablespoons of it to milk and drink the
prepared mixture every morning with your daily breakfast. Alternatively, you
can even add it to your smoothies.
2. Kelp
Kelp is
brown seaweed which is enriched with iodine and varied number of other
minerals. It is primarily useful for the treatment of hypothyroidism that is
caused due to iodine deficiency. You can make use of kelp supplements. In case
of iodine deficiency, you can take iodine supplements to help thyroid gland
function normally.
Note: If
you are suffering from autoimmune thyroid problems, then you must not use this
remedy.
3. Apple
Cider Vinegar
Apple cider
vinegar is another useful remedy to deal with this thyroid disorder. It is
believed that it restores acid alkaline balance, aids detoxification;
helps regulate hormones and facilitates weight loss, and improves energy
metabolism. Add 2 tablespoons of organic apple cider vinegar to a glass filled
with warm water and mix a small amount of honey. Drink this mixture on a daily
basis.
4. Fish
Oils
This is
considered as one of the useful remedies for maintaining healthy thyroid
function and increasing thyroid hormone production. You can take fish oil
supplements.
Note: If
you are taking blood thinners, then do consult your doctor before taking the
supplements.
5.
Vitamins
Deficiency
of vitamin D has always been linked with numerous autoimmune diseases, which
also include thyroid disease. The simple way to provide vitamin D to your body
is to sunbathe early morning daily, for at least 15 minutes.
You must
also intake vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C and
vitamin B12.
6. Heavy
Metal Detox
Prepare a
mixture of turmeric, milk thistle, cilantro and chlorella, and use it to get
rid of those harmful metals from your organs and cells.
7. Amino
Acid Supplements
Take
L-tyrosine in an empty stomach in the morning and evening (twice a day). It is
an amino acid that is important for the production of thyroid hormones in our
body.
8.
Nutritious Diet
- An array of nutrients is required by
the thyroid gland, in order to function optimally. Include omega-3 fatty
acids; cold water fish, for instance, cod, salmon, and walnuts; fish oil;
chlorella, algae and seaweed in your daily diet.
- Intake selenium enriched foods such as
salmon, Brazil nuts, beef, sunflower seeds, onions and mushrooms.
- Intake healthy fats that will aid
balance hormones, such as coconut milk, grass-fed beef, and avocado, chia,
and hemp seeds.
9. Color
Therapy
This is a
visual meditation technique which helps soothe and heal certain parts of the
body. All you need to do is simply close your eyes and visualize a blue light
entering into your thyroid while you inhale in and out.
Herbal
Remedies for Hypothyroidism
10. Lemon
Balm
This herb is
beneficial for those who are suffering from hypothyroidism. It basically helps
normalize the underactive thyroid gland, thereby boosting up the production of
thyroid hormones.
11.
Siberian Ginseng
It is a
wonderful herb for those suffering from both hypothyroidism and
hyperthyroidism. It regulates the hormone levels in the body and helps
normal functioning of the thymus and adrenal glands. Take 100-200 mg of
Siberian ginseng extract two times a day (before breakfast and before lunch).
12.
Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha)
Ashwagandha
has antioxidant properties which produce the right amount of thyroid hormones
required for proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
13.
Nettle
This herb is
enriched in iodine. The tea prepared by nettle can be consumed 2-3 times each
day. You can also use nettle oil for massaging the neck area.
14.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds
are rich in fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered
great for thyroid health. Consuming flaxseeds increase the production of
thyroid hormones in the body. Thus, individuals become less susceptible to
hypothyroidism.
15. Black
Walnut
Yet another
amazing herb enriched in iodine is black walnut which optimizes the health and
better functioning of the thyroid gland in the body.
16.
Bladder Wrack
Bladder
wrack is an essential remedy for a number of health conditions, including
hypothyroidism, as it is enriched in iodine. It contains necessary substances
that aid in reducing the size of thyroid goiters and in restoring the normal
functioning of the thyroid gland. Take 200 mg of bladder wrack supplements to
get back your thyroid gland in track.
17.
Licorice
The
production of cortisol (a hormone that fights stress) decreases in the body of
those who suffer from hypothyroidism. Licorice tea can help improve the
condition. Steep licorice roots in boiling water for a few minutes. Strain and
then drink it.
18.
Guggul
Guggul is
obtained from the gum resin of an Indian tree, called Commiphora Mukul. The
active compounds, known as guggulsterones, are useful in treating
hypothyroidism by stimulating the normal functioning of thyroid. Additionally,
it also has anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering
properties. It can be taken in the form of supplement also.
Note- If
you are taking beta-blockers, birth control pills and other medications,
consult your doctor before using guggul.
19.
Evening Primrose Oil
This oil
aids removing the problems associated with hypothyroidism as well as triggers
the healthy functioning of thyroid gland. If you have hypothyroidism, take 1
tablespoon of evening primrose oil on a daily basis. For enhanced benefits, you
may take a tablespoon each of both primrose oil and flaxseed oil daily.
20. Vitex
Agnus Castus and Black Cohosh
Herbs like
Vitex Agnus Castus and Black Cohosh maintain estrogen levels in the body and
perk up thyroid function. But before taking any of these, check the estrogen
levels in your body, to ensure that the real cause for hypothyroidism is
estrogen. Alternatively, you can also consume natural estrogen supplements, in
order to alleviate the symptoms.
REMEMBER
Although anyone can develop hypothyroidism,
you're at an increased risk if you:
- Are a woman older than age 60
- Have an autoimmune disease
- Have a close relative, such as a parent or grandparent, with an
autoimmune disease
- Have been treated with radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid
medications
- Received radiation to your neck or upper chest
- Have had thyroid surgery (partial thyroidectomy)
- Have been pregnant or delivered a baby within the past six months