How to Help Treat Thyroid Problems the Natural Way

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Thyroid problems can wreak havoc on the body. Learn how to help treat thyroid problems the natural way in today’s article.

Written by Yamila Papa Pintor

Last update: 26 May, 2022

Although it’s only a small part of the body, the thyroid is responsible for regulating your metabolism. If you have an underactive thyroid, your heart rate decreases, you have low energy levels, and you burn fewer calories during exercise or physical activities. Learn how to help treat your thyroid problems the natural way in today’s article.

What you need to know about thyroid problems

These conditions are more common among women than men, especially those over the age of 60. But pay attention – we’re seeing an increasing number of cases of hypothyroidism (the most common thyroid problem, in which the thyroid is underactive) in women who are only 30.

More research needs to be done to investigate whether this is a genetic problem. But worldwide, the cause of the majority of hypothyroidism cases is an iodine deficiency.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Fatigue
Unexplained weight gain
Swollen or pale face
Muscle aches
Hoarseness
Dry skin
High cholesterol
Heavy periods
Joint problems

When a patient has hyperthyroidism, their thyroid is more active than normal and the body produces excess T3 and T4 hormone levels. This, in turn, speeds up many of the body’s normal processes.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Changes in appetite
Dizziness
Nervousness
Heart palpitations
Irritability
Sweating
Diarrhea
Hair loss
Fertility problems
Difficulty sleeping

Foods and nutrients that may improve thyroid function

Selenium

It’s important to activate the thyroid’s hormones to help it function better. One good option is to increase your intake of selenium by eating Brazil nuts (a handful a day, five days a week).

Other sources of this nutrient include organ meats (liver, for example) and seafood. But beware: consuming too much selenium can also cause thyroid problems.

Iodine

Iodine plays an important role in the production of thyroid hormones. It’s not a good idea to consume more than 150 micrograms per day (for reference, one milligram is 1000 micrograms). If you consume too much, it can create imbalances in your body.

Algae and iodized salt are the primary sources of iodine.

Read more here: Iodine: An Essential Mineral

Zinc

Studies conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts indicate that some women may have thyroid problems because they don’t have adequate zinc levels. The suggested daily intake is 10 mg. This nutrient helps gland receptors at the cellular level and also helps strengthen the DNA.

Calcium and vitamin D

One effect of thyroid problems is bone density loss. Thus, it’s important that you consume more calcium (which isn’t only found in dairy products, but also leafy vegetables like kale and spinach) and vitamin D.

Soybeans

Tempeh and miso may help suppress thyroid hormones. Soybeans (organic if possible) could therefore be more effective than any other treatment for hypothyroidism.

Importantly, soybeans contain phytic acid and other compounds that can impair the absorption of other nutrients in the body, so you need to be very careful when you consume soy products.

Cruciferous vegetables

These should be eaten raw, when possible. The best options are Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli. They block the absorption and utilization of iodine, which helps calms an overactive thyroid.

How to help treat thyroid problems naturally

First and foremost, it’s a good idea to see your doctor and request a full blood test. You may not choose to follow a drug-based treatment, so you can go to a homeopath who can prescribe a regimen for you that’s based on ancient traditions. But the blood test is always a good first step so you can know your TSH, T3, and T4 levels.

This article may interest you: 6 Health Tips to Improve Thyroid Function

It’s also a good idea to increase your consumption of certain foods if you have hypothyroidism:

Try seaweed (arame, kombu, nori) due to their high iodine contents.
To increase your vitamin A intake, add more carrots and eggs.
For high zinc levels, try tuna, spinach, nuts, beef, and chicken.

On the other hand, you should avoid the following foods if you have hyperthyroidism:

Sugars
Processed foods
Saturated fats
Refined flours
Peaches
Pears
Broccoli
Pumpkin

If you have hypothyroidism, be sure to increase your intake of the fruits and vegetables that are on the above list.

Other good options

Certain teas may help increase your thyroxine levels. Teas made with the leaves of black walnut trees, for example, contain iodine that may help stimulate the thyroid. On the other hand, teas made with algae may help regulate the body’s metabolism, stimulate the production of thyroid hormones, and improve blood flow.

It’s a good idea to get regular exercise to improve your blood flow and get nutrients traveling freely through the body. Jogging, jumping rope, or biking are all excellent choices. The best options are aerobic and cardiovascular exercises. Just choose whichever ones you like.

Practice relaxation therapies, like yoga, meditation, or tai chi to help regulate thyroid function, particularly if your problem was triggered by trauma, depression, or very bad news. This, in turn, will benefit your everyday life.