The thyroid is one of the largest endocrine glands in the body. It’s located in the front of the neck. This gland, when it is not functioning optimally, can create havoc in our lives because it is responsible for making energy. I like to call it both the thermostat and the furnace of the human body.It works hand-in-hand with our adrenal glands, the gas tank of the body.This super important gland regulates metabolism, which keeps us at a healthy weight. It also keeps our moods happy and balanced, and helps us sleep deeply, and our digestion flowing. When any one of these things is out of whack, we simply don’t feel like ourselves.
Hyperthyroidism, often referred to as an overactive thyroid, is a condition in which the thyroid glandproduces and secretes excessive amounts of the free (not protein bound circulating in the blood thyroid hormones -triiodothyronine (T3) and/or thyroxine(T4). Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. The opposite is hypothyroidism ('sluggish thyroid'), which is the reduced production and secretion of T3 and/or T4.
An anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle provide natural solutions to boost thyroid function.
When your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, it can cause many of your body's functions to speed up, and this leads to symptoms such as losing weight, sweating, feeling irritable or shaky, and diarrhoea. You also may feel tired or worried, and develop menstrual problems.The thyroid gland is one of the most sensitive regions of the body to environmental toxins. The most common environmental toxins affecting thyroid function include:
- Industrial Pollutants in Air & Water
- Ionizing Radiation from medical devices and microwaves
- Heavy Metals such as Mercury, Lead, & Aluminum
- Perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and other chemicals in non-stick pans
- Fluoride in water, toothpaste, & many processed foods
- Inflammatory foods and food allergensHow to protect your Thyroid Naturally?
- Use natural Cleaning products for cleaning your Home.
- Buy Organic Skincare that will not effect the Thyroid negatively.
Eliminate xenoestrogens
Xenoestrogens are man-made estrogen mimicking molecules that are significant hormone disruptors. These chemicals and disruptors cause imbalances that eventually can cause thyroid related disorders such as hypothyroidism.Examples of xenoestrogens, which should be avoided, include:• Plastic containers
• Lining of canned food
• Styrofoam cups and containers
• Cosmetics and toiletries
• Agricultural chemicals
• Non-organic meat and dairy
Organic Foods for Thyroid Health
The best bet is to eat foods that naturally contain iodine and other nutrients that assist with its proper absorption. Examples of these foods are: (Organic Please)• Seaweed (kelp, dulse, nori)
• Cranberries
• Navy beans
• Eggs
• Himalayan crystal salt
• Potatoes
• Black strap molasses
• Apple cider vinegar
Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Zinc, and Selenium are essential for proper glandular function.
Iodine supplementation is almost always necessary, as most people are iodine deficient. I usually start at 12.5 mcg daily and increase as needed.
Ashwagandha and Guggul extract may aid in the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3) and may assist in maintaining healthy blood lipid levels.
Elimination and detoxification diet, with strict emphasis on gluten and soy elimination should always be started. Incorporate sea vegetables, kelp, and fermented foods in the diet, which are all “thyroid friendly” foods.
