Hashimoto's disease is a condition in which your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, which in turn causes the gland to become swollen and irritated. The Family Doctor website states that, if you have Hashimoto's disease, your thyroid gland is unable to properly synthesize the hormones that help control your metabolism. If you suffer from this condition, you have unique nutrition and supplement needs. Always get your doctor's advice about natural treatment approaches before deciding to use these therapeutic solutions.
Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's disease, notes MayoClinic.com, is the No. 1 cause, among Americans, of hypothyroidism, a condition that most commonly affects middle-aged women. Some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with this condition include depression, face puffiness, inability to tolerate cold, fatigue, lethargy, voice hoarseness, unexpected weight gain, muscle aches and joint pain and stiffness. Certain factors, including genetics, sex and age, may boost your chances of developing this condition.
Dietary Recommendations
Several dietary strategies may be helpful in treating your Hashimoto's disease. In her book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that important dietary inclusions in treating this condition include apricots, dates, molasses, egg yolks, parsley, potatoes, raw seeds, prunes, fish, chicken and whole grains. On the list of dietary choices to be excluded, or foods that should be consumed only in moderation, you'll find cabbage, kale, spinach, turnips, peaches, pears, refined sugar, broccoli, mustard greens and Brussels sprouts, due to their ability to suppress your thyroid function.
Helpful Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplements are a time-honored approach and adjunct therapy in the treatment of your Hashimoto's disease. Two of the most helpful herbal supplements for this health problem, states Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," are guggul and bladderwrack. Beneficial non-herbal supplements may include L-tyrosine, brewer's yeast and essential fatty acids. Further scientific testing may be necessary to determine the true health benefits of these nutritional supplements.
Considerations
Hashimoto's disease is a serious health condition that requires the assistance and guidance of a licensed health care practitioner. If you are diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease, meet with your family physician to review your treatment options. Ask your doctor if nutritional therapies and other natural treatment methods are appropriate for you and your condition. Your doctor can counsel you on the most effective foods to consume or avoid and supplements to use in treating your thyroid condition.
References
- Family Doctor: Hashimoto's Disease
- MayoClinic.com: Hashimoto's Disease
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
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