More than 13 million people suffer from thyroid disorders in America and the number is growing. In today's society, you will see your doctor and within minutes, you are prescribed a pill. However, incorporating natural ways to restore the balance of your thyroid may be more beneficial. "It's a matter of balance or imbalance that starts with your thyroid gland and involves every part and function of your body, from your hair to your toes," writes Glenn S. Rothfeld and Deborah S. Romaine, authors of "Thyroid Balance: Traditional and Alternative Methods for Treating Thyroid Disorders."
The Thyroid
Your thyroid gland is located under your Adam's apple and is shaped like a butterfly. The thyroid acts as the master gland of your metabolism, says Dr. Joseph Mercola for Alive.com. It controls your body's temperature and its growth and development. Thyroid irregularity can lead to Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism or Grave's Disease.
Sleep and Exercise
Both sleep and exercise are two lifestyle factors that are interconnected. It can become difficult to sleep without doing enough aerobic and anaeorbic type exercises, says Dr. Mercola. Your body benefits from 7 to 8 hours of solid and uninterrupted sleep. Sleep restores your hormonal balance. A lack of sleep and exercise can lower your immunity and throw your thyroid out of balance. Exercise acts as an immunity and energy enhancer. It produces immunity enhancing chemicals and boosts the oxygen flow within your body, which helps fight against antigens, says Mary Shomon of Thyroid-Info.com
Healthy Diet
Eat whole foods, such as raw fruits and vegetables like mushrooms, kale, garlic, apples and whole grains, like quinoa. Eat wild or ocean fish and lower your intake of red and cured meats, such as bacon. If you choose to eat meat, then try to go organic or local. Eliminate the high-glycemic carbohydrates like white bread, rice and pasta. Stop the intake of sugary and highly processed foods and drink more water. Maintaining a healthy diet is vital to the regularity of your thyroid. Keeping a food journal can be a way to record the foods you are eating -- type, time and portion --and write about how they make you feel. This will help you become more aware of your body and help balance your thyroid.
Practice
A majority of people's thyroid glands become impaired as a result of weak adrenal glands, says Dr. Mercola. Your adrenal glands are accountable for releasing the hormones that are in accord with stress. When your adrenal glands become over loaded from too much stress and insufficient nutrition, your thyroid gland tries to compensate. Eventually it gives up and stops working, writes Dr. Mercola. Fit in some mind and body relaxation and stress reduction methods, such as massage therapy, visualization exercises and affirmations. Try to create a positive attitude. Practice prayer, meditation, yoga or tai chi. Having a rounded spiritual sense and positive outlook on life can enhance your immunity, says Shomon.
References
- Thyroid Balance: Traditional and Alternative Methods for Treating Thyroid Diseases; Glen S. Rothfeld and Deborah S. Romaine; 2002
- Alive.com: Is Your Thyroid Out of Balance?
- Thyroid-Info.com: Seven Ways to Balance Your Immune System
