Natural Supplements to Improve Thyroid Function

Hypothyroidism or thyroid dysfunction is the disorder caused due to undersecretion of hormones by the thyroid gland. These hormones are essential for stabilizing the metabolism. Hence, people suffering from hypothyroidism exhibit symptoms that are associated with slow metabolism.

The symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, swollen eyes, fragile nails, coarse skin, croaky voice, etc. Interestingly, these symptoms are often associated with minor disorders; hence, people tend to ignore them. This is the reason why thyroid disorders are one of the most under-diagnosed disorders in the world.

It is an endocrine gland which is responsible for secreting three types of hormones, viz. triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and calcitonin. T3 and T4 are produced by using iodine, and are responsible for metabolism and general vigor.

The levels of these hormones in the body are detected by measuring the level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood. As the levels of these hormones increase, the level of TSH decreases.

Thus, more the level of TSH, the more the chances of a person suffering from thyroid dysfunction. The level of TSH determines if the person is in need of a supplement or not.

Thyroid supplements are of two types: natural and synthetic. Synthetic supplements comprise only one of the two hormones, either T3 or T4, while natural extracts include the entire range of these hormones. Additionally, these supplements do not induce any side effects, unlike their synthetic counterparts.

Natural Supplements
Natural ingredients have been used for treating thyroid problems since ages. The traditional natural medicines aim to make the gland healthy so that it functions efficiently. This mechanism alleviates the need of additional synthetic supplements.

Recent researches have affirmed the effectiveness of natural supplements for improving thyroid dysfunction. They are now prescribed medications for treating hypothyroidism.

Herbal Supplements
There are certain herbs which are rich sources of iodine and contain a range of vitamins and minerals. These herbs nourish the thyroid gland, and facilitate the normal secretion of hormones. Following are the herbal supplements that help in improving thyroid function

• Shilajeet
• Kanchanara
• Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus)
• Licorice
• Green Oats (Avena sativa)
• Makandi (Coleus forskohlii)

Goitrogens are chemicals that bring about the enlargement of the thyroid gland by interfering with its synthesis mechanism. Although cooking reduces the effectiveness of these chemicals, it is still recommended that such foods be consumed in cooked form only. Following are the natural thyroid supplements

• Rapeseed
• Cabbage
• Brussels sprouts
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Sweet potatoes
• Maize
• Lima beans
• Soya and pearl millet

Changes in your diet can help you protect against thyroid dysfunction. There are some natural ingredients that you should incorporate in your daily meal. Coconut oil is believed to enhance the health of a thyroid gland. It is a saturated fat, and contains triglycerides which not only control the metabolism, but also help in losing weight.

Vegetable juices and coarse sea salt also help in maintaining the balance of this gland. Along with this, there is a long list of foods that are to be avoided by people suffering from a thyroid dysfunction. It includes caffeine, sugar, potatoes, excess wheat flour, and other glycolic foods.

Natural supplements are definitely useful in curing this dysfunction. Since they are the extracts of entirely natural products, they have no side effects. Even people with a normal thyroid function should include these supplements in their diet so as to prevent the occurrence of this disorder in future.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and it does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.