Hypothyroidism is a condition commonly found in women, triggered by the insufficient production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the lower part of the neck just below the voice box. Its shape is similar to that of a butterfly and its main function is to discharge thyroid hormones that run body’s metabolism. Therefore, people with insufficient thyroid hormones will suffer from the signs of slow metabolism.
There can be overactive thyroid functioning and underactive thyroid functioning. The former condition is known as hyperthyroidism.Since adequate release of thyroid hormone is vital for the promotion of growth, development, and many cellular processes in the body, it is really important to have a well- functioning thyroid gland to ensure healthy living. An underactive thyroid gland will cause a lot of complications and health problems if let it go unchecked.
There are lot of people with hypothyroid condition in their body, who are living unaware of this disorder due to its asymptotic symptoms, which are mistaken for some other illness. Some of the common symptoms found in hypothyroid patients are: fatigue, weakness, hair loss, intolerance to cold, weight gain, rapid weight loss, constipation, menstrual problems, depression, rough skin, rapid thoughts, restlessness or shakiness, muscle cramps etc. This ‘silent disease’, if left untreated, can lead to more complicated problems such as confusion and mental disorders, heart problems, and even to death.
What Causes Hypothyroid Condition?
Knowing the causes of hypothyroidism is the best way to resort to the apt medication scheme.The thyroid gland makes use of iodine to create thyroid hormones. The deficiency of iodine, which is available in plenty from seafood, bread, and salt, can be the main cause of thyroid hormone deficiency.
Destruction of thyroid tissues due to radiology surgery, Hashimoto’s disease or inflammation of the thyroid gland, an injury in the pituitary, mercury pollution, artificial sweetener aspartame etc. can also cause the condition of hypothyroidism.Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3) are the two vital thyroid hormones, and the latter has most biological activity with effects on metabolism of cells. A large amount of T4 will be converted into T3, after being released into the blood.There is a chain of command function that happens from brain and thyroid gland and vice versa.
Pituitary gland located in the brain regulates thyroid, and is in turn regulated by the thyroid by hypothalamus gland. The hypothalamus releases a hormone that gives indication to the pituitary to issue thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Then, TSH sends a signal to the thyroid to release thyroid hormones. Any disruption in this cycle will lead to defective production of thyroid hormone and the related complications.
This hormone disorder is a completely treatable condition. Taking a hormone pill a day will be enough for most of the patients, but in some cases treatment won’t be that easy, as one type of hormone composition will not be effective in all patients. The main objective of all the treatments is to give the additional hormone levels that are lacking in the body. In most of the cases, medication should be continued lifelong. Myxedema coma is the most complicated and life-threatening condition, if hypothyroidism is left untreated.
Herbal Treatments For Hypothyroidism
Embracing certain diet and lifestyle modifications can help in rectifying underactive thyroid functioning in the body.Avoid excess intake of Goitrogens, which constrains the thyroid function. Foods that come under this category are cabbage, cauliflower, tapioca, turnip, broccoli, radishes, kale, millet and soy. Stay away from eating these vegetables raw. Cooking process reduces its thyroid inhibiting calibre and can be consumed in limited quantity.
Consumption of foods with large iodine content will help in treating hypothyroid condition. Bladder wrack is an herb that is enriched with natural iodine. This has proven capabilities in treating numerous thyroid disorders.Spirulina is a wonderful herb that can be used to treat hormonal disorders. It regulates thyroid functioning and improves general health.Salt water fish, sea weed, shell fish, yogurt, meat eggs, potato, parsley, bananas, oatmeal and iodized salt are foods that contain natural iodine.
An increase in the intake of these foods will help in rectifying hypothyroid condition. Besides iodine, seaweed also contains high amount of an amino acid called tyrosine, which helps thyroid gland in producing T3 and T4 hormones.The ancient Indian Ayurveda suggests coleus forskohliiv as a great herb that can reduce blood pressure and correct underactive thyroid function.
Some other herbs that can do wonders are discorea poria, acornus, paonia ginseng, and cinnamon. Fucur vesiculosis is a sea vegetable that can bring thyroid glands to normal working condition, thanks to its rich iodine contents. Avina sativa is another effective herb that can relieve nervous disorders associated with depression and anxiety.Since obesity is accompanied with hypothyroidism in some patients, it is necessary to adhere to a weight management regime and stress management.
Excessive weight gain is mainly due to the low metabolism level in the body. Cayenne, ginger and kelp are some herbs that can help in weight reduction along with maintaining the necessary metabolism process in the body.Excessive consumption of caffeine products, sweets, and dairy products should be avoided as part of the weight control program. Regular aerobic and other brisk exercises will help to keep hypothyroid condition under check.
Plan out you diet routine that includes rational proportion of foods and supplements that are rich in iodine, zinc, tyrosine, vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E.Nettle is an iodine rich herb that has been traditionally used to treat hypothyroidism. Iodine-rich bladder wrack also aids in hormone correction. Ginger indirectly helps the illness by controlling cholesterol levels. It is advisable to refrain from the consumption of those food items that comprise fluoride, chlorine, or bromine.
Exposure to sunlight will also help in improving the under active thyroid function since vitamin D is a necessary for thyroid hormones. Primrose oil is another wonder herb that can helps in controlling hypothyroidism. The fatty acids contained in the oil re-establish the proper functioning of the thyroid glands.It is worthwhile to consult a physician before taking any herbal or food supplements in order to know the correct measure and other associated effects.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.