The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland found in the middle of the lower neck that produces hormones that affect every cell, organ, and tissue in the human body. It secretes its hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) into the blood.
The hypothalamus and pituitary gland are responsible for managing the work of the thyroid gland.
The most important is the pituitary gland, which with the help of thyrotropin (TSH) encourages the thyroid gland to produce hormones, but also to grow, which can lead to an increase in the thyroid gland or goiter.
Iodine is needed for the production of thyroid hormones since the lack of iodine in the body leads to the enlargement of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating body temperature and heart rate, as well as producing protein and controlling your metabolic rate.
Diagnosis of thyroid gland disease
A DIAGNOSIS OF THYROID DISEASE CAN BE STRESSFUL AND WORRYING, BUT EARLY DETECTION IS VERY IMPORTANT. THE GOAL OF TREATMENT IS TO NORMALIZE TSH AND THYROID HORMONES IN THE BLOOD.
In the case of hyperthyroidism, this can be achieved with drugs that block the work of the thyroid gland, that is, by removing the gland or using radioactive iodine, while in the case of hypothyroidism, with additional treatment - replacement of the missing hormone.
It's natural to want to be well and think about what you can do to improve your health. There is a lot of information available, and it is very important that new approaches to the treatment of thyroid cancer and thyroid disease are always being tested.
The most important message is to talk to your doctor about what you are already using before trying something new.
Here are some facts you need to pay attention to:
Herbs and other products can interfere with how medicines work in your body.
Vitamins can have a powerful activity in your body.
Taking more vitamins may not necessarily make you feel better.
THE CAUSES OF THE THYROID GLAND CAN BE DIFFERENT, BUT THE FOUR MOST COMMON CAUSES ARE:
Toxicity: Exposure to radiation and heavy metals
Deficiency: Iodine and selenium
Food intolerance: Gluten and casein
Hormonal imbalance – High cortisol from stress, too many carbohydrates, and too little fat in the diet.
Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
IN SHORT, HYPOTHYROIDISM IS WHEN THE THYROID GLAND DOES NOT PRODUCE ENOUGH THYROID HORMONE. AN OVERACTIVE THYROID GLAND, HYPERTHYROIDISM, IS WHEN THE VITAL GLAND PRODUCES TOO MUCH OF THE NECESSARY REGULATORY HORMONE.
SYMPTOMS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM:
Fatigue
Depression and anxiety
Obliviousness
Gaining weight
Feeling cold
Stiffness and swelling of the joints
Hair loss
Breathing problems
Colds more often
Infertility
SYMPTOMS OF HYPERTHYROIDISM:
Irritability
Nervousness or anxiety
Muscle weakness
Unexplained weight loss
Shaking hands
Irregular heartbeat
Skin dryness
Bulging eyes
Heat intolerance
Sleep disorders
HYPERTHYROID
Hyperthyroidism usually begins slowly, but this is not the rule, because in some young patients these changes can be very sudden. In the beginning, the symptoms may be wrong, simply because of nervousness, or stress.
If you've been trying to lose weight by dieting, you may be happy with your success as long as the hyperthyroidism that accelerated the weight loss doesn't cause other problems.
The most common cause (in more than 70% of people) is the overproduction of thyroid hormones by the entire thyroid gland. This condition is also known as Graves' disease.
Graves disease
GRAVES' DISEASE IS CAUSED BY ANTIBODIES IN THE BLOOD THAT CAUSE THE THYROID GLAND TO GROW AND SECRETE TOO MUCH HORMONE. IT OFTEN APPEARS IN YOUNG WOMEN. LITTLE IS KNOWN ABOUT WHY INDIVIDUALS GET THIS DISEASE.
Another type of hyperthyroidism is characterized by one or more nodules or lumps in the thyroid that can gradually grow and increase their activity so that the total amount of thyroid hormone in the blood is higher than normal. This condition is known as toxic nodular or multinodular goiter.
Also, people may temporarily have symptoms of hyperthyroidism if they have a condition called thyroiditis. This condition is caused by an immune system problem or viral infection that causes the gland to leak stored thyroid hormone.
Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism
The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism will be confirmed by laboratory tests that measure the number of thyroid hormones - thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) - and thyrotropin (TSH) in the blood, which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones.
Hyperthyroidism can lead to numerous complications:
1. Heart problems.
Some of the most serious complications of hyperthyroidism include heart problems. These include increased heart rate, a heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation, and congestive heart failure – a condition in which your heart cannot circulate enough blood to meet your body's needs.
Atrial fibrillation means an irregular, often accelerated heartbeat, which causes the poor blood flow in the body. Symptoms include palpitations, shortness of breath, and weakness, while some people have no symptoms until discovered during an examination.
A disorder of the thyroid gland can cause atrial fibrillation, so if it is the cause, treating the thyroid gland will also solve the problem with atrial fibrillation.
2. Fragile bones.
Untreated hyperthyroidism can also lead to weak, brittle bones ( osteoporosis ). The strength of bones depends, in part, on the amount of calcium and other minerals they contain. Too much thyroid hormone interferes with your body's ability to incorporate calcium into your bones.
3. Eye problems.
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that causes an overactive thyroid gland and is the most common form of hyperthyroidism. Graves' ophthalmopathy occurs in 50% of Graves' disease patients.
People with Graves' ophthalmopathy develop eye problems, including bulging, red, or swollen eyes, sensitivity to light, and blurred or double vision. Severe eye problems can lead to vision loss.
4. Red, swollen skin.
In rare cases, people with Graves' disease develop Graves' dermopathy, which affects the skin, causing redness and swelling, often in the feet and legs.
5. Thyrotoxic crisis.
Hyperthyroidism also carries the risk of a thyrotoxic crisis – a sudden intensification of your symptoms, or worsening hyperthyroidism, leading to fever, rapid pulse, and even delirium.
Fortunately, a thyrotoxic crisis rarely occurs, but if it does, it is an emergency and you need to seek immediate medical attention.
Treatment of patients with hyperthyroidism
No single treatment is best for all patients with hyperthyroidism. Appropriately, the course of treatment will be influenced by your age, the type of hyperthyroidism you have, the severity of your hyperthyroidism, and other medical conditions that may affect your health.
It is certainly good to consult with an endocrinologist who has experience in treating patients with hyperthyroidism. If you are unsure or unclear about your thyroid treatment plans, seeking a second opinion is a good idea.
A type of hyperthyroidism
GRAVES' OR BAZEDOV'S DISEASE IS A TYPE OF HYPERTHYROIDISM. IT IS AN AUTOIMMUNE DISORDER THAT IS GENETIC AND IS ESTIMATED TO AFFECT ONE PERCENT OF THE POPULATION.
In Graves' disease, which is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, the eyes appear bulging, which occurs as a result of eyelid retraction. Sometimes one eye may protrude, but both may also protrude.
Some patients have swelling of the front of the neck (goiter).
When it comes to Graves' disease, can be treated with anti-thyroid drugs, radioactive iodine therapy, and thyroid surgery.
Since Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder, having another autoimmune disease will increase the risk of developing the disease. Examples of such autoimmune diseases are rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, and Crohn's disease.
Although the symptoms are related to thyroid problems, the type of thyroid problem is very difficult to diagnose without an appropriate urine or blood test.
Most often, thyroid conditions are treated with medication, but on the other hand, they have harmful side effects on your overall health.
THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT THERE ARE NATURAL REMEDIES THAT CAN HELP TREAT THE THYROID GLAND:
1. Diet without gluten and casein
Gluten is a protein found in wheat and similar grains, rye and barley. Today, a large number of people suffer from gluten sensitivity, which is indicated by symptoms such as bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea, weakness, headaches, etc.
The most common food allergies and intolerances today are from wheat and dairy products due to the hybridized proteins of gluten and a1 casein.
These proteins can cause inflammation of the gut - "leaky gut", which in turn causes inflammation of the thyroid gland and affects its function. Therefore, you need to use grain-free or at least gluten-free food in your diet.
2. NO BPA
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic compound, which is used in the production of certain plastics and epoxy resins. Several everyday products are made from BPA plastic, including water bottles and sports equipment.
BPA found in plastic bottles can disrupt your endocrine system and affect your thyroid gland. It is recommended to drink only from glass bottles.
3. Check the level of iodine in the body
Check your iodine level - if you have a low iodine level, your thyroid gland is especially at risk, so use foods rich in iodine, which is found in sea fish, algae, pineapple, asparagus, yogurt, cheese, eggs, etc.
4. Heavy Metal Detox (HMD)
Toxins create disease and they are everywhere. They are found in the food we eat, in the air we breathe, and in our homes and offices. They cannot be avoided.
Sometimes we voluntarily introduced them into our bodies in the form of dental amalgam fillings or vaccines.
Heavy metal toxicity – from metals such as mercury, aluminum, copper, cadmium, nickel, arsenic, and lead – is one of the biggest threats to our health. These toxic metals such as lead, mercury, or arsenic can have disastrous health effects.
They lead to disease states, such as chronic fatigue, migraines, and allergies, to serious conditions such as autism, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and cancer.
Cleansing your body and removing the most dangerous heavy metals will further improve your health.
Vitamin C
FOODS RICH IN VITAMIN C (FRUITS AND VEGETABLES RICH IN VITAMIN C) CAN REDUCE THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY HEAVY METAL TOXICITY BY ACTING AS AN ANTIOXIDANT.
Greens
GREEN VEGETABLES SUCH AS KALE, SPINACH, AND PARSLEY ARE DETOXIFYING AND CAN HELP REDUCE THE BUILD-UP OF HEAVY METALS LIKE MERCURY IN THE BODY.
GARLIC AND ONIONS – THESE VEGETABLES CONTAIN SULFUR THAT HELPS YOUR LIVER DETOXIFY HEAVY METALS SUCH AS LEAD AND ARSENIC.
Water
DRINK WATER OR VEGETABLE JUICE EVERY TWO HOURS TO FLUSH OUT TOXINS.
Seeds, Omega-3, and fiber
FLAX AND CHIA SEEDS – OMEGA-3 FATS AND FIBER CAN HELP DETOXIFY THE COLON AND REDUCE INFLAMMATION.
Coriander, blueberry...
IT IS ALSO RECOMMENDED TO USE CORIANDER, BLUEBERRY, HAWAIIAN SPIRULINA (EDIBLE BLUE-GREEN ALGAE), TURMERIC, ETC.
Avoid food with additives
ON THE OTHER HAND, AVOID FOODS WITH ADDITIVES – ADDITIVES ARE CHEMICALS THAT CAN WORSEN TOXICITY SYMPTOMS AND REDUCE YOUR BODY'S ABILITY TO DETOXIFY ITSELF.
Alcohol
ALCOHOL - IS TOXIC TO THE BODY AND CAN MAKE IT HARDER FOR YOUR LIVER TO PROCESS OTHER TOXINS AND ADD TO YOUR TOXIC LOAD.
5. More selenium
Selenium serves as an antioxidant. It is needed for the functioning of the thyroid gland, that is, for the immune system. Research has established that people with low levels of selenium are more susceptible to developing the disease.
Make sure you get enough selenium in your diet. Most selenium is found in brewer's yeast and wheat germ, butter, egg yolk, soy, fish (cod and tuna), seafood, garlic, liver, sunflower seeds, etc.
The richest in selenium is the Brazil nut.
6. Adaptogen supplements
Increased levels of cortisol and chronic stress hurt your body. When cortisol becomes high, there is an increase in blood pressure and indigestion.
Adaptogens are a unique class of medicinal herbs that help balance, restore and protect the body.
The most famous adaptogen is ginseng - Zhen Shen, which improves mental performance and the ability to withstand stress, followed by basil, cordyceps mushroom, astragalus root, etc.
7. Removal of silver-mercury fillings
If you have amalgam fillings, talk to your dentist about proper removal. Amalgam is a substance created by the reaction of mercury and another metal. The most famous amalgams are silver mercury, which is used in dentistry.
Since amalgam has been used for many years as a filling material and the use of amalgam fillings has not yet been banned, the decision to remove those fillings is a matter for the individual. Fortunately, amalgam fillings are being used less and less and are being replaced by white fillings.
8. Limit your intake of carbohydrates
Most of the energy a person gets is from carbohydrates, while the rest of the energy is compensated by proteins and fats. Reduce your intake of sugar and grains and replace them with healthy fats (monosaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats).
Monounsaturated fats are olive oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, avocado, olives, and nuts - almonds, peanuts, walnuts, and hazelnuts.
Polyunsaturated fats are soybean oil, corn oil, walnuts, linseed and sunflower oil, fatty fish - salmon, mackerel, herring, trout, and sardines, then soy milk and tofu.
Most women consume too many carbohydrates that increase estrogen and negatively affect the thyroid gland. Instead, consume healthy fats that will balance your hormones.
9. Heartworm as a remedy for hyperthyroidism
St. John's wort is a natural beta-blocker and can help control tachycardia. It is effective in the treatment of hyperthyroidism, where it reduces the number of hormones produced.
Use this plant regularly and you will alleviate all the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. The used heart is not recommended if you are taking sedatives, because it has a mild sedative effect.
Pour half a teaspoon of dried heart into 2 dl of boiling water. Remove from the heat and let the plant release its aroma and medicinal substances into the water. Strain the tea and let it cool to room temperature before drinking. Drink one cup three times a day.
10. Hawthorn is a natural remedy for hyperthyroidism
This natural medicine successfully treats hyperthyroidism. Hawthorn is a completely safe and well-tolerated plant, which numerous studies have proven.
It calms the increased work of the thyroid gland, and it is necessary to use this plant daily in any form, to feel the improvement and disappearance of symptoms.
Also, hawthorn is an excellent way to naturally lower high blood pressure, improve sleep and alleviate arrhythmia.
Pour two tablespoons of hawthorn flowers with half a liter of 20 percent alcohol and let it stand for 20 days. You get a tincture that you drink four times a day. The maximum single dose is 30 drops.
11. Lemon balm is one of the best medicines for treating hyperthyroidism
Lemon balm is one of the best medicines for treating hyperthyroidism. The soothing properties of this medicinal plant are particularly significant in this case. The stimulating effects of thyroid hormones are effectively alleviated.
Their secretion leads to a normal state.
Additional relief for patients suffering from increased thyroid activity is represented by the effect of lemon balm on reducing the feeling of heart palpitations and eliminating anxiety.
To start, pour half a teaspoon of dried lemon balm with 2 dl of hot boiled water. Strain and drink this dose of tea three times a day. Gradually increase the dose of this medicinal plant to a maximum of two tablespoons per cup.
12. Valerian helps with increased work of the thyroid gland
Valerian has proven its effectiveness in cases of increased thyroid activity. In addition to its calming effect on the uncontrolled growth of hormone production, valerian prevents the occurrence of thyroid cancer.
It suppresses nervous tension and anxiety. It suppresses the palpitations associated with chest tightness.
It also successfully lowers blood pressure.
Pour 200ml of boiling water over a spoonful of valerian. Cover the container containing the liquid and let it stand for two hours. Take two spoons at least 5 times a day.
IN HYPERTHYROIDISM, VITAMINS ARE USEFUL:
1. Vitamin C:
Free radicals are one of the main causes of an overactive thyroid gland. That's why the intake of vitamin C, which is loaded with excellent antioxidant properties, will help fight free radicals and treat an overactive thyroid gland.
This vitamin C is one of the most effective and recommended supplements for the treatment of hyperthyroidism.
Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C. You can also take vitamin C supplements with these vitamin C-fortified foods. But be sure to consult your doctor before taking high doses of vitamin C as a dietary supplement.
2. Vitamin B12:
We all know that various B vitamins will help with basic metabolic functions in the body. For an overactive thyroid gland, vitamin B12 is very effective.
So, vitamin B12 deficiency will lead to hyperthyroidism in humans. Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin B12 will help you fight hyperthyroidism.
Vitamin B is naturally found only in products of animal origin such as shellfish, mackerel, red meat, liver, crabs, and eggs. In addition, you can find it in certain fortified grains and soy products such as tofu, as well as in synthetic forms.
If you take vitamin B12 as a supplement, first of all, consult your doctor to know the correct dose that suits you.
3. Magnesium:
Magnesium is another mineral that plays an important role in maintaining the health of the thyroid gland.
A study conducted on patients with hyperthyroidism showed that there is a significant decrease in the concentration of calcium, zinc, and magnesium.
Therefore, it is necessary to eat foods rich in calcium, such as nuts, green leafy vegetables, seeds, etc.
Your diet will help compensate for its deficiency in the body.
So take foods rich in magnesium in your daily diet to get rid of hyperthyroidism.
Research conducted in America shows that:
- More than 12 percent of the American population will develop a thyroid problem during their lifetime.
- An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease.
- Up to 60 percent of thyroid sufferers are unaware of their condition.
- Women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid problems.
- One in eight women will develop a thyroid disorder in her lifetime.
- Most thyroid tumors respond to treatment, although a small percentage can be very aggressive.
- The causes of thyroid problems are mostly unknown.
- Undiagnosed thyroid disease can put patients at risk for certain serious conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and infertility.
- Pregnant women with undiagnosed or insufficiently treated hypothyroidism have an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and severe developmental problems in children.
- Most thyroid diseases are lifestyle conditions that can be treated with medical attention.
HYPOTHYROIDISM
Making dietary changes is your first line of defense in treating hypothyroidism. Many people with hypothyroidism have debilitating fatigue, which encourages them to consume sugar and caffeine, which should be greatly reduced.
A few suggestions for people with hypothyroidism:
1. Eliminate caffeine and sugar
Greatly reduce or eliminate caffeine and sugar, including refined carbohydrates, which the body treats like sugar. Bad carbohydrates are those that cause a rise in blood sugar, such as white bread, white rice, and potatoes.
Good carbohydrates are fruits and vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
2. Consuming enough protein
Proteins are needed to deliver thyroid hormones through the bloodstream to all tissues in the body.
Therefore, it is very important to include omega-3 essential fatty acids in the diet to normalize metabolism.
Proteins are building materials responsible for the development of muscles, bones, and tissues, and they also help in the fight against infections, since they strengthen the immune system.
Lack of protein will cause loss of muscle mass, a weak immune system, and heart failure.
3. Fats are very important in hypothyroidism
In hypothyroidism, fats are very important, so you should increase the intake of natural healthy fats, which include olive oil, avocado, flax seeds, fish, nuts and walnuts, raw cheese, and yogurt.
4. Nutrients
Nutrients are chemicals needed by the body for life and growth, organic nutrients include carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and vitamins. Nutrients that are needed in very small amounts are micronutrients.
Although nutritional deficiencies may not be the cause of hypothyroidism, deficiencies in these micronutrients and minerals can worsen symptoms: vitamin D, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, zinc, copper, vitamin A, vitamin B, and iodine.
- We need vitamin D for strong bones - the richest sources are fish oil, salmon, eggs, butter, fish
- Iron improves our body's resistance - to the source - fish, egg yolks, beans, red meat, liver, stone fruits
- Selenium – wheat germ, tomato, onion, Brussels sprouts, Brazil nut
- Zinc – seeds, eggs, mustard, wheat germ
- Copper - peas, legumes, plums
- Vitamin A – carrots, yellow fruits, milk and milk products, green and yellow vegetables
- Iodine - onion
5. Gluten-free diet
Gluten is found in wheat, barley, and rye, as well as in all products made from them. Gluten is therefore found in pasta, snacks, soups, and industrial food. Gluten disturbances can increase the autoimmune attack on the thyroid gland.
Excluding gluten leads to recovery, so a gluten-free diet is both medicine and food for the body.
6. Goitrogens can block iodine uptake by the thyroid gland
Be aware of goitrogens, substances found in drugs, chemicals, and food, which interfere with the production of thyroid hormones, interfering with its function. Goitrogens include broccoli, kale, whipped cream, cauliflower, millet, spinach, strawberries, peaches, peanuts, radishes, and soy.
Since these diets contain goitrogens, they can block the uptake of iodine by the thyroid gland and eventually cause goiter. Food, on the other hand, is important for the prevention and treatment of many diseases.
Does that mean you can't eat this food?
No, because primarily cooking inactivates goitrogenic compounds; then you should not eat the same food every day, but enjoy it as part of a richly varied diet.
Everything in moderation will not cause problems, but excessive use of foods containing goitrogens can cause or worsen thyroid problems.
7. Glutathione is one of the pillars of the fight against Hashimoto's
Glutathione is a protein found in all cells of the human body. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and is one of the pillars of the fight against Hashimoto's.
It is necessary for maintaining health because it is responsible for detoxifying the body, maintaining immunity, and preventing the development of inflammatory diseases
The amount of glutathione in the body will depend on the general well-being, prevention of the development of diseases, and the aging process. The causes of a reduced amount of glutathione in the body are inadequate nutrition, certain medications, stress, infections, radiation, toxins, and even increasing pollution of our environment.
The intake of glutathione via a pill cannot compensate for the deficiency in the body, since the glutathione thus ingested will be digested in the digestive tract.
One of the basic ways to increase the production of glutathione in the body is to consume vegetables, especially broccoli, kale, onion, garlic, and cauliflower, along with the moderate physical activity.
It will boost your body's ability to modulate and regulate the immune system, soften autoimmune processes, and protect and heal thyroid tissue.
8. Check digestion
The intestines are not only digestive organs but also the most important organs of the body's defense system. There are billions of microorganisms in the intestines, and the so-called good bacteria or probiotics in the intestines process food and suppress harmful bacteria and viruses.
A balanced intestinal microflora is important for human health, but it is often disturbed due to improper nutrition, stress, antibiotics, and alcohol consumption.
An incredible 20 percent of thyroid function depends on a sufficient amount of healthy gut bacteria, so it's best to supplement them with probiotics.
The best-known sources of probiotics are fermented dairy products, such as yogurt and kefir. Cabbage is also rich in probiotics.
Hypothyroidism
ACCORDING TO SOME ESTIMATES, 40 PERCENT OF THE POPULATION SUFFERS FROM SOME FORM OF LOW THYROID FUNCTION. WOMEN, ESPECIALLY THE ELDERLY, ARE THE MOST SENSITIVE GROUP TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF HYPOTHYROIDISM. THEN, THOSE WHO HAVE OTHER PRE-EXISTING AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES – SUCH AS TYPE 1 DIABETES, AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS – ARE ALSO AT HIGHER RISK.
SOME OF THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM?
Changes in your metabolism, heart function, digestion, energy, appetite, sleep, mood – even the growth of your hair, skin, and nails.
The first step in treating hypothyroidism is to address the consequences and causes of thyroid dysfunction, such as inflammation, overuse of medications, nutrient deficiencies, and hormone changes due to stress.
The hypothyroid diet eliminates foods that can cause inflammation and immune reactions and instead focuses on foods that help heal and reduce inflammation.
POTENTIAL CAUSES OF HYPOTHYROIDISM:
1. Inflammatory disorders of the thyroid gland
The most common cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries is a condition called Hashimoto thyroiditis. This happens when the thyroid gland becomes inflamed and is considered an autoimmune disorder.
When someone has Hashimoto's, their body starts attacking itself by producing antibodies that try to destroy the thyroid gland.
Why is this happening?
The immune system mistakenly thinks that thyroid cells are not part of the body, so it tries to remove them before they can cause harm and disease. The problem is that it causes widespread inflammation, which can lead to many different problems.
2. Poor diet (especially one lacking iodine and selenium)
A diet low in nutrition, especially in iodine and selenium (trace minerals critical to thyroid function), increases the risk of thyroid disorders.
The thyroid gland needs both selenium and iodine to produce adequate levels of thyroid hormones. These substances have other protective roles in the body; eg, severe selenium deficiency increases the incidence of thyroiditis because it stops the activity of a very powerful antioxidant known as glutathione that normally controls inflammation and fights oxidative stress.
3. Intestinal inflammation (leaky gut syndrome)
Intestinal inflammation can be caused by food sensitivities, or allergies, including gluten and dairy products. Other causes of a damaged intestine are a high degree of stress, an overload of toxins from food and the environment, and bacterial imbalances.
When a leaky gut occurs, it means that small particles that are normally trapped inside the gut have begun to leak into the bloodstream through small openings in the lining of the gut, creating a series of negative symptoms.
4. Genetics
Although it's not a common reason, sometimes babies are born with thyroid dysfunction, a genetic condition called congenital hypothyroidism. It is a disorder characterized by loss of thyroid gland function, while in some cases the thyroid gland is completely absent.
However, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the likelihood of genetic hypothyroidism is very low and only one in 4,000 infants are born with a thyroid disorder.
5. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, although it is not known exactly why, some women begin to produce very high levels of thyroid hormone, followed by a very rapid decline. This condition is known as postpartum thyroiditis. Usually, after giving birth, the condition goes away with time.
6. Interactions of certain drugs
Using certain medications can also cause hypothyroidism, especially recovering from cancer treatment, surgery, or taking prescriptions for mental health or heart disease.
7. High level of emotional stress
Stress affects hormones and is known to worsen inflammation. Stress can raise cortisol and adrenaline levels, which impairs neurotransmitter function and worsens symptoms of thyroid disease – these include low energy, low mood, poor concentration, appetite disturbances, weight gain, and inability to sleep well.
8. Inactivity and lack of exercise
Exercise and a healthy diet are important for managing chronic stress and managing hormonal neurological function.
Research shows that people who exercise regularly tend to sleep better, have less stress, and usually maintain a healthy weight, all of which reduce some of the biggest risk factors and symptoms of an underactive thyroid.
The thyroid gland is considered the master gland, and in addition to producing key hormones, it also helps control the process of converting nutrients from food into usable energy. Because the thyroid plays such a role in your metabolism, dysfunction can end up in almost any part of the body.
Key hormones produced by the thyroid gland also help the liver break down cholesterol circulating in the bloodstream. The thyroid gland can also stimulate enzymes that are needed to control triglyceride levels of fats, so changes in thyroid function can lead to heart problems.
Other visible symptoms of hypothyroidism include nausea and a sluggish metabolism. Your mood is particularly sensitive to changes in hormone levels, so some people with hypothyroidism struggle with depression, anxiety, difficulty sleeping well, and weak immunity.
SOME OF THE MOST COMMON WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM INCLUDE:
Fatigue
Depression and anxiety
Weight gain
Infertility
Feeling cold
Jail
Pain in the muscles
Stiffness and swelling of the joints
Hair loss
Rough, cracked skin
Breathing problems
Changes in the menstrual cycle
Colds more often.
START THE HEALING PROCESS WITH PROPER NUTRITION, TOP NATURAL REMEDIES FOR TREATING HYPOTHYROIDISM:
1. Balancing the level of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
Balancing levels of omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids in a hypothyroid diet can reduce inflammation and maintain healthy neurological function.
Many studies show that the change in the ratio in the intake of these acids through food increased the tendency to inflammatory reactions, which are associated with autoimmune and allergic diseases.
Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are essential acids, which means that they are not created in the body, but must be consumed through diet.
Fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are some of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They increase neurotransmitter activity and support a healthy mood and immune system.
Sources of omega-6 fatty acids are found in oils such as sunflower, soybean, and corn.
Nutritionists believe that with processed food, humans have disturbed the balance in the intake of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, which has led to an increase in the number of people suffering from asthma, arthritis, heart disease, as well as all other diseases in which there is an inflammatory process.
2. Coconut oil is the main part of the hypothyroid diet
It provides medium-chain fatty acids in the form of caprylic acid, lauric acid, and capric acid which support a healthy metabolism, increase energy and fight fatigue.
A staple of the hypothyroid diet, coconut oil is easily digestible, nourishes the digestive system, and has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties that suppress inflammation.
Coconut oil helps improve immunity and can increase brain function, stamina and mood, while also stabilizing blood sugar levels.
3. Sea vegetables are a natural source of iodine
Some of the best natural sources of iodine will help prevent thyroid deficiency and should be part of your weekly diet. Just as there are land vegetables, there are also sea vegetables, which are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
These are seaweeds, which are classified as green, brown, or red algae. Kelp, nori, and dulse are the best choices. Look for their dry varieties in health food stores and use them in soups.
There are many reasons for recommending sea vegetables as part of the diet: weight loss, cellulite control, detoxification, and much more. Sea vegetables can transform your health.
4. Probiotics in food
Probiotics are good bacteria that maintain the balance of microorganisms in the intestines since the microflora can become disturbed due to various diseases, stress, taking antibiotics, or some other drugs.
Probiotics help create a healthy environment by balancing microflora bacteria, which reduces leaky gut syndrome, nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and autoimmune reactions.
Although there are no recommendations on how many probiotics should be taken into the body, the introduction of these foods is still important. This includes kefir (a fermented milk product) or organic goat's milk yogurts, sauerkraut, etc.
5. Flax, hemp, and chia seeds are essential for proper hormonal balance and thyroid function.
They provide ALA, a type of omega-3 fat that is essential for proper hormone balance and thyroid function. Adequate levels of fat in the hypothyroid diet support a healthy mood and brain function and help reduce inflammation.
Eating plenty of healthy fats also stabilizes blood sugar levels and can help you stay at a healthy weight.
6. Clean water
Water helps with hydration and digestion, and prevents fatigue. To prevent constipation, and low energy and sugar levels, drink at least two liters of water a day so that all organs are supplied. Nothing can replace water.
7. Food rich in fiber
Fibrous food is necessary for the health of the digestive tract. People with hypothyroidism may have difficulties with digestion, so they need to eat foods rich in fiber every day.
In addition to a high-fiber diet that helps with digestive health, improves heart health, balances blood sugar levels, and supports a healthy weight, you'll feel fuller.
Some simple ways to increase your fiber intake include eating more fresh vegetables, berries, beans, lentils, and seeds.
8. Beef and chicken can help improve hypothyroidism
Beef and chicken contain amino acids that can help improve hypothyroidism. It also contains numerous minerals that prevent deficiencies such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and silicon.
As part of your hypothyroid diet, beef soup has been shown to overcome food sensitivities, improve energy, boost immunity, and reduce muscle and joint pain.
9. Fruits and vegetables for hormone balance
Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are needed to combat free radical damage and reduce inflammation. Fruits and vegetables should be a large part of a healthy diet because they make the digestive tract healthy, and improve brain function, heart health, and hormone balance.
Stress is a natural part of life, but too much stress will worsen thyroid health.
Try to maintain a positive mindset, even in times of stress. Meditate or exercise regularly to relax your body. Remove stress from your environment whenever possible. Don't fixate on things that are out of your control - it's just not worth it.
Throughout this text, we want to clearly state that a carefully planned, natural, a healthy lifestyle will give you the best chance to be healthy.
A healthy thyroid gland is associated with a healthy body and every little bit helps, but all of these tips cannot replace your doctor's advice.
If you have serious health problems or concerns, consult your doctor.
SOURCES:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hypothyroidism-symptoms
http://www.thyroid.org
https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperthyroidism
https://www.mayoclinic.org
https: //www.webmd.com/women/features/low-thyroid-alternative-therapy#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/hypothyroidism/five-natural-remedies-for-hypothyroidism
https://www. cdc.gov/
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