Thyroid Gland Problems

The Latest Natural Treatment For Thyroid Problems
There are many natural ways to support a healthy functioning thyroid gland. A healthy diet, herbs, homoeopathic medicine and other natural therapies can provide positive outcomes for your hormone health.
Diet & Thyroid Gland Problems
* Avoid caffeine as it can have a suppressive effect on thyroid gland function. Green tea is the exception as it is beneficial for thyroid gland function.
* Eat zinc-rich foods such as oysters and pumpkin seeds.
* Eat selenium-rich foods such as asparagus, Brazil nuts, grains, garlic and mushrooms.
* Cook your brassica vegetables for six to seven minutes. These vegetables contain ‘goitrogens’ which prevent the use of iodine. Goitrogens are found in broccoli, sweet potato, cabbage, cauliflower, turnips, brussel sprouts and mustard greens. Cooking inactivates the thyroid inhibiting effect.
* Balance the intake of soy with iodine-rich foods such as Japanese sea vegetables e.g. nori, wakame, kombu and arame.
* For more detailed thyroid diet information refer to The Natural Thyroid Diet: Stop Eating The Foods That Damage Your Thyroid
Supplements & Thyroid Gland Problems
* A good quality multivitamin and mineral formula containing vitamins A, B complex, C, E, magnesium and manganese. These are all important for thyroid gland function.
* Iodine is necessary for the formation of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), two principle hormones secreted by the thyroid gland.
* L-tyrosine (together with iodine) produces thyroid hormones that control the body’s metabolism. A deficiency of tyrosine leads to hypothyroidism and low adrenal function.
* Zinc is essential for successful conversion of T4 to active T3.
* Selenium assists in removing toxins from the body and is essential for conversion of T4 into T3. Many agricultural areas are extremely deficient in selenium, so supplements are highly recommended.
* Coenzyme Q10 assists with energy production and cell function.
NB. For best results, try these recommended supplements for a period of three months. These supplements are best taken under the care and guidance of your health practitioner.
Herbs & Thyroid Gland Problems
* Bladderwrack is a herb traditionally used for an under active thyroid gland. It contains high amounts of iodine which may be responsible for stimulating production of thyroid hormones.
* Bacopa is a herb that stimulates thyroid gland function and is also used for memory and concentration problems.
* Withania, Licorice, Codonopsis and Siberian Ginseng provide adrenal stress support and promising results for healthy thyroid gland hormones.
NB. You should not take any of the above herbs if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill, fertility drugs, HRT or any other hormonal treatment or other medication unless they are recommended by a registered practitioner.
Other Natural Treatment For Thyroid Problems
* Homoeopathic medicines prescribed by your homeopath or naturopath can have positive effects on your thyroid gland balance.
* Acupuncture can help balance hormones and facilitate the free flow of energy through the body.
* Aromatherapy can assist and support the reproductive system, and gently contribute to rebalancing your hormones.
NB. Always consult a registered health practitioner.
More Tips For Healthy Thyroid Function
* Exercise can help stimulate your metabolism, improve your stress coping mechanism and improve mood health and heart health.
* Since stress affects the adrenal glands, and since poor adrenal gland functioning can affect the thyroid gland, stress management is essential in the overall treatment of thyroid gland problems. Meditation, yoga, tai chi, reading a book, going for a walk or doing something you find relaxing should be incorporated into your daily life.
* Make sure your liver function is in tip-top shape for thyroid hormone metabolism. Your Naturopath will be able to assist in boosting your liver function through diet, supplements and herbs.