Recent studies have shown that as high as 23% of Americans are currently being treated for hypothyroidism, and another 30% have yet to be diagnosed. Thyroid hormone medications are currently the second highest selling category of drugs in the United States.
While some Americans have found great relief from these medical treatments, others are searching for natural alternatives.
What Does the Thyroid Do?
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is normally located in the lower front of the neck. The purpose of the thyroid is to produce thyroid hormones, which are secreted into the blood to be carried to every tissue in the body. Thyroid hormones help the body to stay warm, use energy and maintain the function of the muscles, heart, brain and other organs.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormones to keep up with the body’s needs. This is also referred to as under-active thyroid. This results in many the body’s functions slowing down, such as the metabolism.
What are the Signs of Hypothyroidism?
There are several signs that you can watch out for. These may develop slowly, even over several years. If you find you are experiencing any number of these signs, it is important that you contact your family physician. This is especially true if you have a family history of thyroid disease.
- Slow heart rate
- Low body temperature, including feeling cold when those around you do not
- Constipation
- Pale, dry skin
- A puffy face
- Dry, thinning hair
- Brittle nails
- Muscle weakness
- Joint or muscle pain
- More than usual menstrual bleeding
- Weight gain, especially when you are aware that you are not eating more food
- Feelings of sadness or depression
- Feeling very tired or fatigued
- A hoarse voice
- Less sweating than usual
What Can You Do?
The key to preventing thyroid conditions is to ensure that you are living a healthy lifestyle, including physical activity and a well-balance diet. If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism there are several medical and hormonal treatments. There is no cure for hypothyroidism, however with the right balance of treatments you can manage the symptoms.
Enjoy These 7 Foods to Manage Your Hypothyroidism Naturally
- Coconut oil
Consuming at least 1 tsp of virgin coconut oil daily has been shown to speed up your metabolism, boost energy and improve the function of the thyroid hormone.
- Ginger Tea
Ginger possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties which can improve your thyroid functions. Either chew on a piece of ginger, or make a ginger tea with 1 Tablespoon of honey 4 times each day.
- Fish
As many of us are aware, fish is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. What you may not have known is that omega-3 can decrease inflammation and increase immunity. Fish also contains selenium, iodine and vitamin B12.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar has many beneficial properties including helping to regulate hormone balance in the body, facilitating weight loss, aiding detoxification and restoring acid alkaline balance.
- Nuts
Brazil nuts, hazelnuts and macadamia nuts are all high in selenium, which is essential for a healthy thyroid gland.
- Wild Oats
Oats are a low-glycemic food with restorative properties that can stimulate your thyroid gland. They contain high amounts of zinc, manganese, iron, selenium and fiber.
- Black Walnut
Both a good source of natural iodine and magnesium, black walnuts help to improve the thyroid glands. They also act as a blood purifier and may help in curing autoimmune disease.