How To Treat And Improve The Thyroid Naturally

Thyroid problems can cause thinning of the bones, so a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is recommended to facilitate its absorption

Although it is small, the thyroid gland regulates metabolism, one of the most important functions of the body. For example, if the thyroid is underactive, our pulse decreases, as well as the energy level and the number of calories burned from exercise or activities.

Discover in this article how we can treat the thyroid naturally. There are some nutrients that are essential for the proper functioning of this gland. Discover them!

What to know about thyroid problems

This pathology is more common in women than in men, especially after the age of 60. But beware, there are more and more cases of 30-year-old women with hypothyroidism, the most common type (when the thyroid is underactive).

A clinical study is required if there is a family history. Worldwide, the cause of thyroid problems has to do with a deficiency in iodine .

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

To begin with, the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism are:

• Tiredness.
• Unexplained weight gain.
• Swollen or pale face
• Muscle pains.
• Hoarsely.
• Dry Skin.
• Cholesterol.
• Menstrual periods with a lot of bleeding.
• Joint problems

In the event that the patient has hyperthyroidism, that is, his thyroid is more active than normal, it will produce more of the T3 and T4 hormones. This speeds up various processes in the body.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

• Changes in appetite
• Dizziness
• Nervousness.
• Palpitations
• Irritability.
• Sweating
• Diarrhea.
• Hair loss.
• Fertility problems
• Difficulty to sleep.

Nutrients and foods for the thyroid

Selenium

For starters, selenium activates the thyroid hormone so it can do its job. A good option to increase the amount of this mineral is to consume Brazil nuts (a handful per day, five times a week).

Other sources of this nutrient are organ meats (liver, for example) and shellfish. Attention, that excess selenium can also cause thyroid problems.

Iodine

Iodine plays a key role in the production of thyroid hormones. It is advisable to ingest no more than 150 micrograms per day (one milligram has 1000 micrograms).

However, we must bear in mind that if too much of this nutrient is consumed, imbalances can be aggravated. Seaweed and iodized salt are its main sources. However, we can consult with a specialized dietitian.

Zinc

Women with thyroid problems may lack the correct levels of zinc. For this reason, it must be taken into account that the suggested dose of this mineral per day is 10 mg.

This nutrient helps the receptors of the gland at the cellular level and strengthens the action of DNA. Some foods rich in zinc are cocoa, beef, oysters, or nuts.

Calcium and Vitamin D

One of the consequences of thyroid problems is thinning of the bones. That is why it  is recommended to consume more calcium (it is not only present in dairy products, but also in leafy vegetables, such as chard or spinach).

However, to assimilate this mineral well, we must also provide our body with  vitamin D. The deficiency of this vitamin is one of the characteristics of people who suffer from thyroid diseases. We can get it from food, supplements, or through exposure to sunlight. 

Fermented soybeans

Tempeh and miso can be thyroid hormone suppressants. Soy can be more effective than any antithyroid treatment. However, we recommend always consuming it of organic quality, since most of this grain is transgenic.

It is important to know that this food has phytic acid and other components that can impair the absorption of nutrients in the body. Therefore, it is necessary to consume soy with care.

Cruciferous vegetables

Lastly, we can’t forget about Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli. These goitrogenic foods block the absorption and utilization of iodine, and they calm thyroid function.

Ideally, for them to be curative is to cook them very little, steamed, and make them a little crunchy. We can also make them fermented or in salads.

How the thyroid heals naturally

First of all, it is good that you go to the doctor and have him order a complete blood test. It is always good to have this test to determine the levels of TSH, T3 and T4.

You may not want to take drug treatment. However, you can go to a homeopath or naturopath for remedies based on ancient traditions.

Beneficial and harmful foods

In addition, we recommend that you increase the consumption of certain foods:

• Due to its high iodine content, algae (arame, kombu, nori or palmaria).
• To increase the amount of vitamin A, carrots and eggs.
• Due to its high zinc values, tuna,  spinach, walnuts, beef and chicken.

However, it is necessary, in turn, that you avoid these foods :

• Sugars
• Processed food.
• Saturated fats.
• Refined flours.
• Excess salt.

Other tips

• For starters, some infusions can help you increase thyroxine levels. For example, you can consume black walnut leaf tea (with a good amount of iodine, which stimulates the thyroid).
• You can also opt for an infusion of seaweed such as Kombu or Irish Moss (they regulate metabolic speed, stimulate the production of thyroid hormones and improve blood flow).

• It is also a very good idea to exercise to improve the state of the blood and so that the fresh nutrients go through your body completely. Also, at the same time you get rid of toxins. Jogging, jumping rope, or riding a bike can be a great option. The idea is that they are aerobic and cardiovascular exercises. Choose the ones you like the most.
• Finally, practice some relaxation therapy, such as yoga, meditation or tai chi. It is very good at regulating thyroid function, especially if the problem was caused by trauma, major depression, or very bad news. In turn, this will bring you benefits in your daily life, not only in regard to this gland.