Hypothyroidism Natural Remedies

Hypothyroidism (low functioning thyroid) affects approximately 11 million Americans, so states the American Medical Women's Association. Women are 10 times more likely than men to suffer from this disorder. Left untreated, hypothyroidism can not only cause sluggishness and weight gain, it may also cause death. Prescribed medications for hypothyroidism carry a high risk of the development of osteoporosis. Natural remedies work with the body's own chemistry to support a healthy and functioning thyroid.

Supplements

In her book "Prescriptions for Nutritional Healing," author Phyllis A. Balch, CNC recommends kelp, a type of seaweed, as a daily supplement due to its high iodine content. Iodine is essential to the proper functioning of the thyroid, but the American diet does not contain enough of this essential mineral. Vitamin B complex plus extra vitamin B2 and B12 are necessary for proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Essential fatty acids (primrose, flax seed and borage oils) are also vital to a healthy thyroid and in addition to supplements, may be found in fish, whole grain breads, and pasta.
Both Balch and UMM recommend the supplement L-tyrosine (an amino acid), 500mg two to three times daily for hypothyroidism.

Herbs

Balch recommends the herbs bayberry, black cohosh, and goldenseal (take as directed on label) for hypothyroidism. Goldenseal should not be taken by people who have an allergy to ragweed.
Bladderwrack is a known thyroid support herb and the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) recommends 600mg of bladderwrack, one to three times daily, for low thyroid functioning.

Exercise, Diet, Sun---Fuel the Fire

The book "Pathophysiology: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses" states that in cases of hypothyroidism, the body temperature is too low. The hands and feet are generally cold, concentration is lacking, and depression ensues. When body temperature is low, energizing enzymes will not process food and digestion slows. Without proper digestion, the body cannot produce fuel. Stoke the metabolism fire and raise the body's temperature through exercise, raw natural food and sunshine. In the winter especially, keep the body warm with heavier socks, warmer sweaters and a blanket across the legs when relaxing. In summer, keep the air conditioning at a temperate level to prevent any further dip in body temperature.
Exercise raises the temperature of every body component. Raw foods take energy to metabolize; so the body again must raise the temperature in order for these foods to be properly broken down. Sunlight stimulates the pineal gland (an endrocrine gland that stimulates the thyroid) and again, raises body temperature.
The University of Maryland Medical Center cautions that certain foods which interfere with thyroid function should be avoided such as those in the cabbage family and some legumes They further state that many healthcare providers recommend the consumption of soy over animal protein, but too much soy may actually interfere with the thyroid and cause hypothyroidism.
The best case scenario is to have the proper blood tests to confirm the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, and discuss with your doctor whether conventional medication or natural therapies are more suited for your treatment.