Introduction
The thyroid gland plays a major role in many metabolic processes. Thyroid problems include hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. It may affect anyone of any age group. This gland is situated at the front of the neck, under the skin. Variations in thyroid hormone production may result in thyroid problems. The problems can be treated with medications and natural remedies.
What Is a Thyroid Disease?
The thyroid gland is a part of the endocrine system that produces hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are responsible for the smooth functioning of many body processes, such as thermoregulation and weight management.
Thyroid disease occurs due to variations in hormones secreted by the thyroid gland. The main function of the thyroid is to control the speed of metabolism. Metabolism means how the body transforms the food eaten into energy. Cells need energy to function properly. When the thyroid does not function properly, the whole body is affected.
Different types of thyroid disease include
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Hypothyroidism (decreased levels of thyroid hormones or underactive thyroid).
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Hyperthyroidism (Increased levels of thyroid hormones or overactive thyroid).
Thyroid disease is considered very common and it is estimated that 20 million people in the United States (U.S.) suffer from thyroid conditions.
Symptoms of thyroid disease are similar to the symptoms of other medical conditions and stage of life. This makes it difficult to identify the symptoms of thyroid disease. The symptoms are related to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include
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Increased rate of heartbeat (tachycardia).
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Disturbed sleep.
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Weight loss without reasons.
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Feel heat sensitivity.
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Experience sweaty skin.
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Experience anxiety, irritability, and nervousness.
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Irregular menstrual cycles or absence of menstrual cycle (amenorrhea) may be experienced.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include
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Heart rate gets slow.
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Weakness.
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Weight gain without any reason.
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Experience sensitivity to cold.
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Dry skin, dry hair, and coarse hair may be observed.
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Mood gets depressed.
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Heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia) may be seen.
Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism may cause goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland). Most commonly seen in hyperthyroidism.
What Are the Natural Approaches to Support Thyroid Health?
Thyroid problems need to be managed well to avoid complications. Medications prescribed and follow-up with healthcare providers are important in managing thyroid problems.
Natural approaches can help manage the symptoms of thyroid problems, but they cannot replace medications or treatment. It is always better to consult the concerned healthcare provider before starting any natural remedies or supplements or before combining them with the prescribed medications for thyroid problems.
Natural remedies cannot cure thyroid disease, but they can help in
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Controlling inflammation and triggers of autoimmune diseases.
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Increase the levels of hormones.
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Managing symptoms.
Natural remedies aim at lifestyle and environmental factors that may cause thyroid problems or affect the production of hormones in the thyroid.
These include
Diet: Some symptoms like fatigue and weight gain can be managed by having a nutritious, balanced diet. A good diet can help manage a healthy weight. The medications used for thyroid disease cannot avoid weight gain. Consuming a nutritious and balanced diet can avoid weight gain. This type of diet helps manage calories.
Some of the foods may consist of goitrogens. These may affect the thyroid health when excessively consumed. Goitrogens can stop the process in which iodine is incorporated into thyroid hormones T3 and T4. This may be observed among those with iodine deficiency.
The foods that contain goitrogens include
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Cabbage.
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Soy products.
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Broccoli.
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Kale.
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Cauliflower.
A sugar-free diet can help with thyroid health. Sugar and processed foods can increase inflammation in the body, slowing down the conversion of T4 to T3, which may result in thyroid problems. Sugar can increase energy levels for short periods of time. A sugar-free diet can help regulate energy levels, stress, and skin. It is difficult to stick to a sugar-free diet, but it is useful in thyroid health.
Apple cider vinegar can help alkalize the body's environment, which helps produce and express hormones. Ginger contains minerals like potassium and magnesium, which help fight inflammation caused by thyroid problems. Almonds, beans, dairy products, and seaweed also help with thyroid problems.
Supplements: Some supplements can help deficiencies in individuals with thyroid problems. The need for supplements may depend on the levels of vitamins and minerals.
Supplements useful in thyroid problems include
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Vitamin B12: Autoimmune thyroid disease is linked to many other disorders, such as autoimmune disorders, pernicious anemia, and atrophic gastritis. These conditions cause malabsorption of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency or its absence causes fatigue. Hence, supplements of vitamin B12 can help fight fatigue caused by thyroid disorders.
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Zinc: A study found that zinc can affect thyroid function.
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Selenium: Selenium along with zinc can influence thyroid function. Selenium helps in the conversion of T4 to T3. T3 is considered to be the active form. It was noticed that Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can reduce selenium in the body. Selenium supplementation can help balance the affected individuals' thyroxine (T4) levels.
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Iodine: Iodine is important in the production of thyroid hormones. It can be gained from diet or supplements or obtained by iodized salt.
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Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency can result in thyroid problems. Hence, sunbathing every day is essential to avoid thyroid problems. Vitamin D supplements can also be used.
Herbal remedies: Herbs cannot treat thyroid deficiencies. Some of them may cause harm if taken without informing a healthcare provider. Some herbal supplements function with other hormones to influence thyroid function. A study found that ashwagandha can reduce thyroid problems when taken at 600 mg daily.
Probiotics: The National Institute of Health (NIH) has found an association between thyroid disease and small intestine problems. The change in gastrointestinal motility in hypothyroidism can cause small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). This leads to gastrointestinal problems. Probiotics consist of live bacteria that help keep the stomach and intestines healthy.
Essential Oils: Essential oils are useful in treating fatigue caused by thyroid problems through aromatherapy. Coconut oil contains healthy fat, which helps in the thyroid gland function better.
Acupuncture: A study done in 2018 has found that acupuncture can increase thyroid hormones.
Other benefits of acupuncture include a
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Calming effect.
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Reduce pain, stress, and inflammation.
Meditation and yoga: Some yoga poses increase blood flow to the thyroid gland. Meditation and yoga can reduce stress and relax mind. Regular exercise can help with thyroid problems.
Conclusion:
Natural approaches in the treatment of thyroid help reduce thyroid problems and can reduce the symptoms to some extent. Conventional medical treatments cannot replace these. Before using these methods, a healthcare provider must be consulted. These are simple methods that can be adopted easily. Hence, knowing about natural approaches to support thyroid health is important.
