The thyroid, a little but strong butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, is an important performer in your body’s complex symphony of activities. Functioning of the thyroid gland is critical for general well-being since it regulates metabolism, energy levels, and a variety of internal functions. In this blog we will discuss about natural remedies for thyroid health.
What is the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland located in the neck. It secretes hormones that influence the activity and metabolism of all red blood cells with nuclei.
The thyroid gland generates hormones that regulate the body’s functioning. The key hormones that regulate your energy levels, temperature, and heart rate are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid diseases, on the other hand, are one of the most frequent types of endocrine disorders worldwide.
Common Thyroid Conditions
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid, which causes symptoms such as tiredness, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Hyperthyroidism
Symptoms of an overactive thyroid include weight loss, a high heart rate, and anxiety.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system assaults the thyroid, causing hypothyroidism.
Graves’ Syndrome
Another autoimmune illness that causes hyperthyroidism, with symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and vision problems.
Natural Remedies for Thyroid
Probiotics
Probiotics improve gut health, which is associated with thyroid function. Probiotics, which contain beneficial microbes, can help keep your intestines and stomach healthy.
Microbiota acts as a T3 storage site and can lessen thyroid hormone swings, potentially reducing the need for T4 supplementation. Probiotics might be used as a supplement to thyroid medication.
Fermented foods or drinks, cheese, yogurt (the best probiotic), and kefir are examples of these supplements.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic plant, may aid with hormone balance, stress reduction, and thyroid health.
According to one research, Ashwagandha root extract helps to raise blood thyroid hormone levels (T3 and T4). TSH levels in the treatment group declined while T3 and T4 levels increased, according to a randomized clinical investigation evaluating the effect of herbal medicine (ashwagandha) on hypothyroidism. As a result, natural remedies such as ashwagandha may aid in the reduction of primary hypothyroidism symptoms and indications.
Vitamin B12
When your thyroid hormone level drops in your body, it might cause vitamin insufficiency. As a result, taking vitamin B-12 supplements may help you improve your hypothyroidism.
Green peas, beans, sesame seeds, asparagus, cheese, milk, eggs, and tuna are all high in vitamin B levels. These supplements can be taken at the suggested doses.
Black Cumin
Black cumin, known for its anti-inflammatory effects, may benefit thyroid function.
A 2016 research on the effect of black cumin on Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a disorder that gradually destroys the thyroid, found that black cumin can enhance thyroid health in general, as well as for patients with this specific ailment.
When eaten in tiny dosages over a short period, black cumin is most likely harmless. However, some people have adverse skin rashes from black cumin, and those on blood-thinning drugs should avoid it entirely.
Ginger
Ginger can help decrease inflammation and promote thyroid function in your diet.
People suffering from hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, may benefit from taking ginger pills. The herb may also help you lose weight and control your cholesterol and hormone levels.
Individuals using bigger dosages of ginger may have tongue and throat irritation, stomach pain, heartburn, and diarrhea.
Doctors and other healthcare experts are still learning about ginger in therapeutic amounts. As a result, pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding should avoid ginger supplements and consult their doctor before using them.
Iodine
A necessary component for the generation of thyroid hormones. Iodine is required for the thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which aid in the creation of proteins and enzyme function as well as managing proper metabolism.
Without enough iodine, these thyroid hormones cannot work properly, resulting in an underactive or hyperactive thyroid gland, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism.
Because the human body cannot generate iodine, it must be obtained through diet or supplements. Table iodized salt, fish, shellfish, dairy products, tuna, oysters, shrimp, eggs, and poultry are all high in iodine.
Selenium
Maintaining a normal selenium concentration (selenostasis) is essential for preventing thyroid illness and preserving general health. Selenium is useful to those suffering from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Supplementing with selenium appears to be beneficial in those with mild to moderate Graves’ orbitopathy.
Selenium, which can be found in Brazil nuts and sunflower seeds, is essential for thyroid function.
Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture is also the most effective treatment for hypothyroidism. It benefits the body by lowering stress, alleviating muscle and joint stiffness, enhancing blood circulation, and decreasing inflammation.
Acupuncture may help regulate thyroid function and reduce symptoms, according to certain research.
Exercise
Regular physical exercise benefits general health and may improve thyroid function. According to a recent study, hypothyroid individuals who exercise consistently have lower TSH levels and higher T3 and T4 levels.
A moderate-intensity aerobic activity at 70% of one’s maximal heart rate yields the best outcomes for increasing TSH. As a result, regular exercise can boost thyroid function by increasing blood flow to the thyroid gland.
Yoga and Meditation
Depression is frequent in hypothyroid women. Yoga and meditation, when combined, are among the finest home therapies for thyroid disorders in women.
According to expert research, specific yoga poses might boost the blood flow rate to the thyroid gland. Shoulder stands and inverted positions with the feet elevated above the heart level are examples of these yoga practices.
Furthermore, yoga and meditation are the finest thyroid home remedies for reducing stress and anxiety so that your body and mind are always in good shape.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While natural remedies might be helpful, it’s critical to see a doctor if you have chronic symptoms or suspect a thyroid problem. Professional assistance guarantees an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Conclusion
A holistic approach that incorporates natural medicines, a well-balanced diet, and lifestyle changes can pave the path for overall well-being. Accept these tactics as part of your daily routine, and keep in mind that your route to thyroid wellness is unique.
Always have open communication with your healthcare professional, as they are critical in guiding you to long-term thyroid health and overall vigor for your medical treatment side effect.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to read this article on 5 Easy Exercises For Prostate Enlargement.
*This information is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice tailored to individual needs.
Dr. Kimberly Langdon has been an MD for 31 years, board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist with 19-years of clinical experience. She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, earning Honors in many rotations. She then completed her OB/GYN residency program at The Ohio State University Medical Center, earning first-place accolades for her Senior Research Project and Score of 98th percentile on a National Proficiency Test.
During her clinical career, she delivered over 2000 babies and specialized in minimally invasive procedures, menopause, endometriosis, menstrual disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. After retiring from clinical practice, she founded a medical device company to commercialize her two patented and four patent-pending medical devices for both life-threatening and non-life-threatening infections.
