There are several diseases that affect the thyroid, but basically they fall into two types involving either an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroid) or underactive thyroid (hypothyroid). Thyroid patients should always be under the care of a physician and consult with their physician before attempting any natural treatments, although there are many remedies that complement traditional therapy.
Foods That Heal
A proper diet can improve overall body health and assist in supporting the thyroid and a normal hormone balance. Individuals with thyroid problems should choose foods high in B-vitamins and iron like whole grains, fresh vegetables (including sea vegetables) and also those foods with a lot of antioxidants like fruits, nuts and seeds, olive oil and fish, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although studies trying to determine positive benefits of coconut oil are mixed, it shows some promise and is generally considered a safe food.
Foods To Avoid
All foods which are suspected allergens should be eliminated, with top offenders including gluten, dairy, corn, preservatives, chemical additives and possibly soy. Other foods to be avoided include refined white grains and sugar, trans-fats, fried foods, processed foods and alcohol.
The use of soy products in the diet is controversial, with some studies suggesting health benefits and others a harmful effect on the thyroid, but a 2006 issue of "Thyroid," the official journal of the American Thyroid Association, indicated that soy products need not be excluded from the diets of thyroid patients.
In addition, a report by the Linus Pauling Institute reported that very high intakes of cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage and turnips, have been found to cause hypothyroidism in animals, although moderate amounts appear to produce no ill effects. Dr. Edward Bauman, founder and director of the Institute for Educational Therapy in Cotati, California, also recommends avoiding all products with aspartame, which may contribute to thyroid problems.
Supplements
In addition to a daily multivitamin, helpful thyroid supplements include omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, extra vitamin D, selenium and zinc. Zinc supplements should be balanced with copper, one milligram for each 10 to 25 milligram of zinc, according to Mary Shomon, author of several books on thyroid conditions. Calcium is also helpful. However, on MayoClinic.com, Dr. Todd B. Nippoldt cautions that calcium supplements can interfere with the body's absorption of levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone. If a patient is taking thyroid hormone medications, calcium and the medications should be taken about four hours apart.
Exercise
Many studies have found a positive benefit of moderate exercise on healthy thyroid function. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends exercising at least 30 minutes a day for a minimum of five days a week. Yoga is also beneficial, especially the shoulder stand, or "sarvangasan."
Physical Medicine
Alternating three minutes of hot, moist applications followed by one minute of cold to the neck and throat may stimulate thyroid function. Acupuncture and therapeutic massage can also help relieve stress and improve circulation. On WomentoWomen.com, Marcelle Pick, OB/GYN Nurse Practitioner, also recommends deep breathing and meditation, which trigger the relaxation response.
Sunshine
Adequate levels of vitamin D are vital to healthy immune function and calcium metabolism. Thyroid patients living in northern climates should especially make a point of getting sun exposure for 15 to 20 minutes a day.
References
- University of Maryland: Hypothyroidism
- "Living Well with Hypothyroidism: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You"; Mary Shomon; 2005
- "Living Well with Graves' Disease and Hyperthyroidism: What Your Doctor Doesn't Tell You"; Mary Shomon; 2005
- Women to Women: Thyroid Health
- National Institutes of Health: PubMed: Effects of Soy Protein and Soybean Isoflavones on Thyroid Function
Member Comments