A hypoactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is a condition in which your thyroid gland is sluggish and does not produce the necessary amounts of thyroid hormone your body requires. The three most common causes of a hypoactive thyroid, says Thyroid.org, are autoimmune disease, thyroid surgical removal and radiation treatments. Certain dietary approaches might be helpful in treating your hypoactive thyroid, though you should always consult your family physician before pursuing this natural treatment approach.
About Hypoactive Thyroid
Certain risk factors might increase your likelihood of developing a hypoactive thyroid, including pregnancy, being over the age of 50 and being a woman, especially a woman over the age of 34. Smoking also significantly boosts your chances of developing a hypoactive thyroid and might exacerbate the negative health effects associated with this condition, especially as it concerns your heart and arteries. Dry skin, weight gain, constipation and fatigue are common symptoms of a hypoactive thyroid.
Appropriate Diet
Hypothyroidism is a health problem that might respond to certain dietary approaches. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," foods that might help treat your hypoactive thyroid gland include raw seeds, whole grains, prunes, potatoes, eggs, dates, parsley, fish, chicken, raw cheeses and milk. Avoiding or reducing your consumption of turnips, spinach, radishes, pears, mustard greens, cabbage, kale, and foods containing white flour and sugar mIGHT also be beneficial in treating this health problem.
Helpful Food
Eggs mIGHT be one of the most helpful foods in treating your hypoactive thyroid gland. In his book "The World's Healthiest Foods," biologist and nutritionist George Mateljan says eggs are an excellent source of iodine, which is a critical component of your thyroid hormones, T4 and T3, and might be helpful in treating a sluggish thyroid caused by iodine deficiency. Mateljan notes that eggs are also a good source of selenium, a mineral that your body requires for thyroid hormone metabolism.
Additional Information
Because a hypoactive thyroid gland might lead to serious health complications if it is left untreated for a prolonged period, you should report to your doctor as soon as possible if you develop the characteristic symptoms of this illness. Dietary changes, though commonly used as an adjunct therapy in treating your hypoactive thyroid, might not be enough to resolve your condition or reduce your symptoms. Certain foods might not be appropriate for you or your condition.
References
- Thyroid.org: Hypothyroidism
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypothyroidism Highlights
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2010
- "World's Healthiest Foods"; George Mateljan; 2007
