Hypothyroidism symptoms and natural treatments

Hypothyroidism:
Symptoms & Therapies

Hypothyroidism or low thyroid is a condition in which there is too little of the thyroid hormone in the body. Since every cell in your body is dependent on your thyroid, this poses a major problem.

It is 10 times more common in women than men, but even with these startling numbers, many women are unaware of the symptoms they need to know.

Hypothyroidism symptoms range from moderate to severe and usually develop gradually over a period of months and, in some cases, years. The key to understanding the disease is to identify the symptoms, so that you can better determine the cure.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms

Extreme tiredness—even after a good night’s sleep

Unexplained weight gain

Intolerance of cold and/or heat

Low motivation and ambition

Headache or migraines

Dry skin and hair

Irritability, anxiety, depression

Mental confusion or “brain fog”

Constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Low sex drive

Insomnia

Muscle cramps

Sleep apnea and snoring

Increased menstrual flow in women

Swelling of face—puffy eyes

Dry thickened skin

Fingernails that are dry, brittle and break easily.

The presence of a goiter on the neck

Keep in mind that not all of these symptoms are always present.

If you have hypothyroidism or symptoms that you think are related, I have some natural remedies that worked for me in my own battle with this disease .

Hypothyroidism Therapies and Cures:

Hormone Replacement Therapy

There are natural hormones and synthetic hormones. Natural hormones are always better, in spite of what some doctors may tell you. Natural hormone replacement is easier for the body to process. In some people, synthetic hormones can cause more problems than they solve.

Exercise

Increase your activity level. Get out and exercise! This is extremely important for those with a low thyroid. Exercise will boost metabolism and help with weight loss. A 30 to 40 minute workout is best, however short 10 minute bursts of activity throughout the day is also effective.

Eat a Naturally Healthy Diet

Natural foods that boost your thyroid function include carrots, spinach, asparagus, olive oil, avocado, sunflower seeds, whole grain cereals, bananas, bran, Brazil nuts, tuna, onions, tomatoes, and broccoli.

Organic fruits and vegetables, fresh and whole foods are great choices. Lean proteins such as chicken, fish, turkey, and lean red meats trimmed of excess fat all help boost metabolism.

Foods that should be eaten in moderation because they can interfere with thyroid function include brussel sprouts, turnips, cabbage, kale, kohlrabi, mustard greens, lima beans, linseed, sweet potatoes, peanuts and soy products.

Avoid stimulants such as caffeine drinks like coffee and colas. Smoking and alcoholic drinks also affect thyroid function.

Boost your metabolism! Rather than 3 meals a day, aim for 5 smaller meals eaten more frequently. These meals should consist of protein, fruits, and grains for breakfast and snacks. Lunch and dinner should consist of a protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. These combinations help keep the metabolism running efficiently.

Following the advice outlined in this article can provide you with a means to both recognize and treat hypothyroidism. I am not, however advocating not seeing a doctor if you have these symptoms.

My experience with this disease taught me the seriousness and the dangers of it. Now, through sharing this information, so will you.

-Theresa Pennington

Theresa Pennington is a co-author and regular contributor for naturalhealthlifestyles.com

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