How to Naturally Ease Thyroid Problems in 5 Ways
According to the American Thyroid Association, about 20 million people in America suffer from thyroid disease. Sadly, up to sixty percent of them do not know that they have the disease. Females are more likely than males to have these problems (1).
Out of eight women, one will have to deal with a thyroid disorder at some point in her life. Even though it is not a big gland, it has a huge impact on people’s health. Here is a list of some things that thyroid has an impact on:
- Heart rate;
- Memory;
- Cholesterol levels;
- Menstrual regularity;
- Bodyweight;
- Fertility;
- Mood and energy levels;
- Bowel function;
- Relaxation and contraction of muscles;
- The texture of hair and skin.
Since the thyroid has so many functions, one may have many problems if its work is interrupted. Problem with the thyroid is related to the production of hormones.
There are two conditions named hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. The first name is for a thyroid that is not active enough.
It describes decreased levels of thyroid hormone, and it causes many problems such as weight gain, fatigue, constipation, and depression.
The second name, hyperthyroidism is for a thyroid that produces excess thyroid hormones. In this case, a thyroid that is too active may speed up metabolic functions.
The symptoms are nervousness, sudden weight loss, irregular heartbeat, rapid heart heartbeat, and irritability (1).
What Are the Causes?
- Consumption of foods that contain soy;
- Toxic levels of mercury;
- Autoimmune deficiency;
- Nutritional deficiency including zinc, iodine, tyrosine, and selenium;
- Low progesterone levels or high estrogen levels.
How to Treat Thyroid Disease in a Natural Way?
Treatments for thyroid diseases are often expensive, ineffective, and may have many side effects. Also, taking medications your entire life is an issue. As we already mentioned, thyroid disorders may be caused by nutritional deficiencies.
So, it is very important to consume enough zinc, iodine, tyrosine, and selenium. Lack of iodine is the most common cause of thyroid problems. We get iodine from foods such as eggs, salt, sea veggies, fish, whole-grain foods, and fresh and unpasteurized dairies.
If you think you do not get enough minerals and vitamins from your diet, then, a supplement (choose organic or natural) will help you.
1. Coconut Oil
You have probably heard that coconut oil is very beneficial. It contains caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid. These acids improve energy and promote a healthy metabolism.
A few studies revealed that including one tbsp. of coconut oil in your diet can speed up fat loss. You can use coconut oil for cooking or as an additive. Also, many people add it to their smoothies.
2. Ashwagandha
This is an Ayurvedic herb that is not studied much. Some medical doctors, herbalists, and naturopaths say that ashwagandha affects the T3 and T4 hormones (3). N. Turner is a naturopath and the writer of The Supercharged Hormone Diet. Her recommendation is 750-1000mg. of ashwagandha per day.
3. Seaweed
As you know, iodine is very important, and seaweed contains a lot of it. It is very important to choose fresh seaweed and of good quality. It is very easy to find kombu, wakame, nori, and kelp which are all seaweeds.
In local health food stores, you can find dry varieties of seaweed. You can add it to soups, tuna fish, and fish cakes.
4. Probiotics
Probiotics heal the gut, so they may help thyroid problems. Foods that contain probiotics are kimchi, organic yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. Probiotics promote a good balance of microflora bacteria in your GI or gastrointestinal tract.
If the microbiome is balanced, it can heal inflammation and leaky gut syndrome, absorb nutrients, and suppress adverse autoimmune reactions.
5. Perform a Pose: A Shoulder Stand
Weil, a doctor says that a shoulder stand improves circulation. But, if you are menstruating, pregnant, or have glaucoma, then, a shoulder stand is not a good idea. Also, if you suffer from sinus problems or high blood pressure do it with caution.
Chronic shoulder pain is a reason for you not to do this pose. And, for those who may do it, you need to stretch. Keep in mind that if you experience pain, you have to stop instantly.
