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Hypothyroidism can cause many symptoms that greatly impact your life, such as weight gain and fatigue. Of course there are medications available that do work, but if you want to try the natural route first, here some excellent natural remedies that are purported to aid in treating hypothyroidism.
Determine if Adrenal Fatigue is Present
For some people, adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism go hand-in-hand so you should have your adrenal function checked to ensure the levels are optimal. You can have this done by your doctor and it involves a simple blood test that is done quickly.
Eat Fat
Hormonal pathways in the body require fat to operate properly so you need to get some fat in your diet but make sure it is the right kind. Look for healthy fats in foods like avocados, nuts, and seeds, olive oil, and fish.
Know Your Stressors
Everyone has things that leave them stressed and it is important that you know what these are so that you can avoid them as much as possible. Add some relaxation techniques, such as self-massage and deep breathing, to your day to help alleviate stress as it occurs.
Get a Thyroid Collar
Whenever you go for X-rays or other imaging that exposes you to radiation, make sure that you ask the technician to put a thyroid collar on you. This is true for imaging done at a hospital, as well as dental imaging and X-rays.
Get More Nutrients
Talk to your doctor about getting blood work done to see if you have any nutrient deficiencies that could be enhancing your symptoms. Next, try to get more of the following nutrients in your diet on a daily basis because they will help you to feel better: vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, vitamin A, iodine, iron, selenium, copper and B vitamins.
Reduce Stimulating Foods
Foods that stimulate the body only provide you with false energy and will leave you crashing a few hours later. These foods include things like caffeine, sugar and refined carbohydrates. Get your carbohydrates from grain-based food so that they are long-lasting.
Increase Glutathione
This is a type of antioxidant that fights against Hashimoto’s disease and it strengthens the immune system. It helps to ensure that your body is properly regulating and modulating your immune system, it heals and protects thyroid tissue and it reduces autoimmune flare-ups.
Increase Protein
More protein means sustained energy and when you are getting adequate protein levels, it helps to normalize the thyroid function. You can get this nutrient from many sources throughout the day, such as grass-fed meats, legumes, eggs, nuts, quinoa, and sustainably-farmed fish.
Reduce Goitrogens
These are specific foods that interfere with the healthy function of your thyroid gland and many foods that are considered healthy are not ideal for those with an underactive thyroid. Now, if you cook these foods, you can eat them without issue because cooking inactivates the goitrogenic compounds. Just be sure to never eat the following foods raw: broccoli, cabbage, kale, rutabaga, millet, strawberries, watercress, radishes, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kohlrabi, turnips, spinach, peaches, peanuts, and soybeans.
Check Your Gut
As much as 20 percent of your thyroid function relies on your digestive tract having the proper amount of healthy bacteria. You can supplement with probiotics, but talk to your doctor first to ensure safety. You can also add yogurt with added enzymes to your daily diet to ensure you have the right amount of healthy bacteria.
Know About Food Sensitivities
If you suspect that you have any food sensitivities, talk to your doctor to get a proper diagnosis. Many people are sensitive to certain foods and when you consume them, this sets off an autoimmune response, exacerbating your symptoms. This is especially true for those with Hashimoto’s disease.
Try Gluten-Free
Some people with hypothyroidism benefit from eliminating gluten from their diet. Some believe that eating gluten when you have an underactive thyroid, specifically due to Hashimoto’s disease, can increase the risk of an autoimmune attack and make your symptoms worse.
Eat Whole Foods
Raid your refrigerator and pantry and throw away everything that is not whole and fresh. When you shop, stick to the perimeter in the store so that you are only buying whole foods, such as lean meats, fresh produce, and organic dairy products.
Increase Iodine in Your Diet
There are things you can eat to increase iodine in your diet and your thyroid relies on this nutrient for optimal function. These foods include low-fat cheese, eggs, low-fat yogurt, seaweed, soy sauce, cow’s milk, low-fat ice cream, saltwater fish and shellfish. Simply add a few of these to your diet each day.
Talk to your doctor before trying any of these remedies to ensure safety. You may be able to add these onto your medication regimen to increase its effectiveness.
